Keep caffeinated drinks to a minimum for your kids

Dear Dr. Donya,

My wife and I disagree about allowing our three-year-old son to have caffeine. I've asked her not to allow it. She says there's nothing wrong with it. I really don't know how to convince her, so would you please give me the details on how caffeine affects toddlers.

Ketut

Dear Ketut,

Your question is very interesting.

Caffeine affects children and adults in the same way. A stimulant, caffeine makes your heart beat faster. It can interfere with sleep and cause nervousness, jitters and irritability.

Generally, a caffeinated beverage not only doesn't satisfy daily water needs, it also will prompt a loss of some or most of the water in the beverage. In addition, research indicates that caffeine makes it difficult for the body to absorb calcium, which children need for strong bones and teeth. Also, children break down caffeine more slowly than adults do and are more susceptible to its effects.

The major sources of caffeine in the diets of children and teens are carbonated beverages and teas. Neither type of beverage provides the vitamins and minerals needed for growth and bone development. The combination of acids and sugar in soda pop plays a role in tooth decay. Also, the calorie content of sweetened beverages may contribute to unwanted body weight.

It's probably unrealistic to insist that children be caffeine- free. Instead, parents can offer beverages that contribute to a well-balanced diet. Milk and fruit or vegetable juices can count toward the recommended number of servings from food groups. Water also is an excellent choice.

An occasional caffeinated beverage probably won't harm a child. The caffeine content of most caffeinated sodas and teas is about one-third that of coffee. But parents should steer their children away from the newer supercaffeinated beverages that manufacturers market as equal to or as strong as coffee.

I hope your wife will agree with you this time

Best Regards, Dr. Donya