Can Children Drink Coffee? | GueSehat

Now there are many "modern" coffees that are sold at affordable prices. Not only adults and students, teenagers also take part in it. In fact, it seems that the trend of coffee drinkers is getting younger. School-age children who are burdened with a lot of homework also start drinking coffee.

Then, what about toddlers? At first it was fun to taste Dads or Mums coffee, maybe your little one wants to continue drinking it. Actually, can children drink coffee? What age is safe to start consuming this caffeinated beverage?

Youngest Coffee Drinker

The results of research studies at Boston Medical Center are quite surprising. The reason is, as many as 15% of toddlers have consumed coffee. The portion is still safe, which is 4 ounces per day, aka half a cup. The results of the study also show, about 2.5% of children aged 1 year have been drinking coffee. The number increases at the age of 2 years.

Although the effect is not immediately visible, children, especially toddlers, should not be allowed to drink too much coffee. It is permissible for them to taste it occasionally, even if it must be in a safe portion. For example, for children aged 4-6 years, 45 mg per day is the maximum limit for coffee consumption.

Side Effects of Drinking Coffee on Children

Toddlers tend to have a higher curiosity. So, it's not impossible that your little one is curious and wants to try the drinks that Mums and Dads drink. However, what are the side effects of drinking coffee on children? It's dangerous for adults to drink too much coffee, let alone small children, right?

Research in Boston found that children who have been drinking coffee since toddlers tend to be more prone to obesity. In fact, children who like to drink coffee 3 times the risk of obesity once they enter school age. According to Cassie Bjork, RD, LD., licensed dietitian and founder of A Simple Life, some of the other symptoms children who drink coffee may experience include:

• Having trouble sleeping.


• Appetite disorders.


• Easily anxious.


• Emotional instability.

Wow, does this mean that your little one should not drink coffee or other caffeinated drinks at all?

Everything Has a Limit

Like any other food and drink, everything has its limits for consumption. The same goes for drinking coffee and other caffeinated drinks. Don't forget, soda and tea are also caffeinated drinks, you know, Mums.

If your little one is curious about the taste of coffee, he may try a sip. However, don't get used to it, so that eventually the child likes it and becomes addicted. Some of the research results above have proven it. Moreover, everyone's body tolerance is different. Some are strong enough to drink coffee and some are immediately sick, such as heartburn.

In short, according to Cassie Bjork, adults should only consume 200 to 300 mg of coffee per day. This means that children should only consume half an adult's portion of coffee, especially if they already like it.

Lots of Water Consumption

Mums, be lucky if your little one never drinks coffee or is curious to try it. When it's already, overcome by telling him to drink lots of water as a neutralizer. Just like adults, every time you drink caffeinated drinks and diuretics, don't forget to alternate with drinking lots of water. However, if your child is already addicted, you should consult a pediatrician on how to overcome it.

Then, when is the safe age for children to drink coffee? The age of 12 years or before adolescence is the safest age for him to drink coffee. If you can, you don't have to, Mums. (US)

Reference

Verywell Family: Is Coffee Safe for Toddlers to Drink?

KumparanMOM: Can Toddlers Drink Coffee?

Epicurious: When Can Kids Start Drinking Coffee?

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