Coffee And Children: What To Watch Out For And Avoid?
There are many people who say that coffee and children are not a good combination. Caffeine tends to activate the central nervous system, and this effect is doubled in children.
The coffee and the children. Would it be wise to avoid this drink?
Many parents would never give their children coffee, since they understand that this threatens their health. While in reduced doses it makes people feel more energy, too much coffee can do a lot of harm, especially to the little ones. In addition, it is necessary to remember that each body reacts differently to this stimulant.
Negative effects of coffee on children
- Restlessness, nervousness and anxiety.
- Stomach discomfort.
- Headaches.
- Difficult to focus.
- Difficulty to sleep.
- Fast heartbeat
- Increase in blood pressure.
These symptoms are not presented by all children, some only present two or three, while others manifest them all. Sometimes these signs are not evident, in which case it would be worse, as the child’s body would be damaged but adults would not have to notice.
Caffeinated beverages pose potential health risks for your child
Sometimes children do not consume coffee but drink sodas or caffeinated drinks, thus obtaining the same results. Little ones who drink a lot of soft drinks tend to suffer from obesity and possibly diabetes, as this study published in Current Diabetes Reports shows . Some develop other problems such as difficulty falling asleep or bad behavior, which highlights the importance of taking care of the health of the little ones.
Decalcification of bones
Although caffeine is harmful in children of all ages, this situation is worse when they are between 3 and 8 years old, since at this age their bones are in full formation and giving them coffee can prevent their body from absorbing the calcium they need. Calcium is also necessary for your teeth to be strong and healthy.
Possible cavities
Caffeine and sugar can cause cavities in children, so their teeth can be seriously damaged . In the case of soft drinks, each glass has about 5 tablespoons of sugar, which is equivalent to 150 calories.
Dehydration
Caffeine also helps the body lose large amounts of water. This way it is easier for the little one to become dehydrated. So far it is not known exactly how much caffeine is needed for the little one to lose fluids, but what is known is that this happens and is harmful to the infant.
Increased body temperature
Many children tend to consume soda on hot days. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms, muscle aches, bad temper, and irritability. On hot days, you usually look for any cold drink, so you should pay attention that they do not contain caffeine.
Nervous disorders
Children are in full growth, so when caffeine is given their nervous system is altered, which can even cause heart problems. In addition, it alters children’s sleep by causing them not to sleep properly.
Coffee and children are not – of course – a good union, since caffeine is able to stop growth. In the past, scientists already knew that this substance was harmful to the body, but they did not know for sure how serious it was. Thanks to technological advances, it has been discovered that the damages are many and can be serious and irreversible.
Maintain good health
Although there are a large number of caffeinated beverages, it is possible to avoid them. The important thing is that the child is healthy. Although a single cup of coffee does not cause serious complications, it is best to avoid all kinds of practices that can be harmful in the long run.
Parents are responsible for maintaining good health in children. Although soft drinks are very attractive to them, it is essential that parents offer alternatives. Fresh juices or homemade smoothies are great options.
Because the nervous system of children is weaker than that of adults, the recommendation of some nutritionists is to avoid drinking coffee at an early age as this could have consequences that will be reflected throughout their lives.
