Coffee In Children: What To Take Into Account And What To Avoid? – Being Parents
Many people argue that coffee and kids don’t mix. Caffeine generally activates the central nervous system. The effects of coffee in children is doubled.
Coffee in children: would it be safe to avoid this drink for them?
Most parents would never give their kids coffee. They understand that this is bad for their health. Certainly, consumed in moderation, coffee gives people more energy.
However, too much coffee can have many consequences, especially in children. In addition, we must remember that each organism reacts differently to this stimulant.
Negative effects of coffee in children
- Worry, nervousness and anxiety.
- Digestive disorders.
- Headache.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Accelerated heart rate.
- Increased blood pressure.
These symptoms do not appear in all children. We will see two or three in some children. Others will have them all. Sometimes these signals are not obvious. In this case, it could be worse since the child’s body could be damaged without the adults realizing it.
Drinks with caffeine pose a potential health risk to the child
Children do not drink coffee, but sometimes they drink soda or drinks with caffeine. They actually get the same consequences. Children who drink a lot of soda tend to have obesity and possibly diabetes.
Some develop other problems such as difficulty falling asleep or behaving badly. It is therefore essential to ensure the health of the youngest.
Bone decalcification
Certainly, caffeine is detrimental to children of all ages. This fact worsens especially when they are between 3 and 8 years old. Indeed, at this age, their bones are in full formation. Giving them coffee can prevent the body from absorbing the necessary calcium. Calcium is also necessary for the good health of their teeth.
Caries
Caffeine and sugar can lead to cavities in children. It can affect their teeth. In the case of sodas, each glass contains about five tablespoons of sugar – the equivalent of 150 calories.
Dehydration
Caffeine also contributes to the body losing large amounts of water. This thus contributes to the dehydration of the child. Today we do not know the exact amount of caffeine needed for a child to become dehydrated. We know, however, that this can happen and that it is bad for the child.
Increased body temperature
The children are growing. Thus, if they are given coffee, their nervous system is disturbed. It can even cause heart problems.
Coffee for kids is definitely not a good thing. This is because caffeine can slow their growth. Scientists have already proven that this substance is harmful to the body. They did not know then to what extent. Thanks to technological advances, we now know that the damage can be serious and irreversible.
Maintain good health
Although there are many drinks with caffeine, it is possible to avoid them. The important thing is that the child is in good health.
If a single cup of coffee does not have serious consequences, it is best to avoid these kinds of practices which can prove to be dangerous in the long run. It is therefore preferable to drink sodas with sugar, always in moderation.
Parents are responsible for keeping children healthy. While they are attracted to soda, it is nonetheless essential that parents offer an alternative. Natural fruit juices or homemade smoothies are therefore excellent options.
Since the nervous system of children is weaker than that of adults, some nutritionists recommend avoiding coffee in children. Indeed, this can lead to consequences that could exist throughout their life.
