Can drinking coffee actually stunt the growth of children or teenagers?
How does coffee or other caffeine consumption affect height?
Caffeine is a stimulant.
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It is found in soda pop, coffee, tea, energy drinks, and chocolate in varying amounts.
When consumed, it has a half-life for 3-7 hours.
This may vary somewhat based on an individuals metabolism and tolerance.
It may cause increased alertness,insomnia, anxiety, jitteriness, and heart palpitations.
However,later consumption(especially in the hours preceding bedtime) may start to impact sleep.
It may cause trouble falling asleep, leading to insomnia, or delay the desired bedtime.
Slow-wave sleep predominately occurs in the first one-third of the night.
This is whengrowth hormonerelease and this hormone is critical to height development.
Sleep deprivation, or fragmented sleep from conditions likesleep apneaorrestless legs syndrome, may undermine this important sleep.
With reduced slow-wave sleep, less growth hormone may be released and childrens growth may be affected.
It may be prudent to encourage consumption of caffeine in moderation among children and teenagers.
There may be a possibility that excessive, late consumption of caffeine could impact both sleep and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Theres some research showing that caffeine can help relieve ADHD symptoms.
The American Academy of Pediatrics cautions against children consuming energy drinks.
The beverages contain high amounts of sugar and calories that can harm teeth and contribute to obesity.
There is about 95 mg in a cup of coffee and about 32 mg in a can of cola.
Heaney R.Effects of caffeine on bone and the calcium economy.Food and Chemical Toxicology.
Sports drinks and energy drinks for children and adolescents: are they appropriate?Pediatrics.
