Is Caffeine Safe for Preschoolers?

Caffeine is one of the most commonly used psychoactive substances in the world. Every day, tens of millions of adults enjoy a cup or two of coffee, and everything from energy drinks to soda to bottled drinks have been fortified with caffeine. But is it safe for your preschooler?

Caffeine is classified as a stimulant drug. It has been shown to cross the blood/brain barrier and have a wide range of effects in the body, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, increased secretion of stomach acid, and many others.

Numerous studies have been done to determine safe levels of caffeine on adults, as well as side effects. However, there are no such studies on children, in part because it\’s not considered ethical to conduct medical studies on children. That means no one really knows if these products are safe for your little one.

Possible side effects from caffeine include:

Upset stomach

Nervousness or jitteriness

Headaches

Trouble sleeping

Trouble concentrating

Increased heart rate and blood pressure

If an individual is especially sensitive to caffeine, they may experience these side effects with even a small amount of the substance. A child is even more likely to be affected by these side effects because of their size.

The US does not have a set guideline for safe amounts of caffeine for children; it is generally considered safe in moderation, but not recommended. In the case of energy drinks, which often have high levels of caffeine along with other substances such as taurine and sugar, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says no amount is acceptable.

One particular downside of caffeine is that it\’s frequently included in drinks that have no other nutritional value and are high in sugar, like soda. This can lead to dental problems and, because of the increased consumption of empty calories, also contribute to diabetes and obesity. Caffeine may also adversely affect brain development.

Caffeine offers no benefits to children and has the potential for causing side effects including nutritional deficiencies that affect growth and development. If you choose to give your child caffeine, do so only in moderation and make sure your child is provided a healthy diet.

Sources:

• KidsHealth.org
• Caffeine and Your Child.
  National Institutes of Health
• Caffeine Use in Children: What we know, what we have left to learn, and why we should worry.
  MedScape
• AAP Guidelines Nix Energy Drinks for Children, Teens.

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