According to nutritionist Dr Srabani Mukherjee at Fortis Hospital, caffeine can negatively affect the health of teenagers, especially during the growing stage.
Caffeine can affect brain development in adolescents, causing cognitive and intellectual problems. Excessive caffeine consumption can increase the risk of osteoporosis, as caffeine interferes with the absorption of calcium, which is necessary for strong bones.
Common harmful effects of caffeine on teenagers
Sleep disorders: Caffeine causes sleep disorders, making users tired and having difficulty concentrating.
Anxiety and restlessness: Too much caffeine can cause feelings of anxiety and restlessness.
Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Caffeine increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with heart disease.
Dehydration: Caffeine is a diuretic, which can dehydrate the body if not drinking enough water.
Caffeine Addiction: Caffeine abuse can lead to addiction, accompanied by withdrawal symptoms.
Nutritional deficiencies: Caffeine can decrease appetite, leading to nutritional deficiencies.
How much caffeine is safe for teens?
Caffeine Amount for Adults: According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), adults can consume about 400 milligrams of caffeine per day.
The amount of caffeine for teenagers: Dr. Mukherjee recommends adolescents to limit caffeine under 100 milligrams every day.
Conclude
In short, caffeine can be harmful to teens. While it may help them stay awake temporarily, too much can have negative effects on sleep, heart health, and nutrition. Parents should limit their children’s caffeine intake to less than 100 milligrams per day.
