The effect of coffee on children: myths and realities
Can children have coffee? Can caffeine affect children’s bodies? Can coffee change its behavior? Is coffee bad for children? You’ve probably asked yourself these questions several times because hundreds of theories revolve around this topic. Find out what they are in the next article.
1. Coffee breeds addiction
Myth or Reality? One of the most common myths about the effect of caffeine in children (and also in adults) is the dependence that may or may not create. In this sense, nutritionist Toby Amidor says that the drink is addictive and may cause them to experience withdrawal symptoms: headache, irritability, or fatigue.
For this reason, Amidor suggests that coffee intake be done at the end of the teenage stage. That’s when children’s development begins to slow down.
2. Coffee can affect children’s growth
Myth or Reality? In some cases, the effect of coffee on children can be counterproductive. Bone health is vital to your growth and caffeine decreases intestinal absorption of calcium and generates its elimination through urine.
Also, remember that caffeine is not only present in coffee, but in other types of beverages or foods, such as chocolate. For this reason, it is extremely necessary for Regular consumption. In Canada, for example, there is a ceiling for 45 mg per day, which is the same amount as one of a soft drink.
However, coffee can affect other parts of your body and cause stomach discomforts such as heartburn or abdominal pain. It can also cause damage to tooth enamel and makes no difference that it is a latte, cappuccino, latte, or any variant thereof.
3. Coffee increases heart rate
Myth or Reality? This is not a myth, it is a reality. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system responsible for regulating heart rate. Your child may feel tachycardia and experience an increase in blood pressure.
Also, overconsumption can cause nervousness, restlessness, or anxiety. Do these symptoms sound familiar? It’s because in adults there can be the same effect. Now imagine the impact on a person are smaller weight and smaller size.
4. Coffee makes you fat
Myth or Reality? The truth is that black coffee has very few calories and does not get fat. But where is the problem and what can affect the little ones in the home? In the escorts. Children and teens are usually attracted to sweets for example when they go out to the cafeteria or something at home such as coffee with sugar, milk, or cream.
A cup of latte and three small tablespoons of sugar (which is enough), can have up to 200 calories. And as you know, excess sweet intake can cause your child to suffer from diseases like obesity or diabetes. And not to mention when it’s a Starbucks frappé with whipped cream, which has at least 500 calories or so than a big cheese and bacon burger.
You must not forget that each body is different and has a particular way of assimilating things. If your child asks for a sip or a small cup of coffee, you can make the exception eventually. Remember: the key is moderation.
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