New Delhi: A study released on Monday by the University of Michigan, USA, highlighted that 18% of teenagers who consume caffeine throughout the day do so primarily to maintain alertness.
According to the research, which surveyed 1,095 parents of adolescents in February, a quarter (25%) of parents reported that their teenagers consume caffeine daily or nearly every day.
Dr. Susan Woolford, a pediatrician at Mott Children’s Hospital and co-director of the poll, emphasized, “Our findings suggest that parents may not always be fully aware of the recommended limits for caffeine intake in teenagers.”
The study identified soda (73%), tea (32%), coffee (31%), and energy drinks (22%) as the most common sources of caffeine for teenagers. Consumption typically occurs most frequently at home (81%), followed by during meals out (43%), with friends (3%), and at school (25%).
“Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the brain and nervous system, and excessive consumption can lead to various health issues in young individuals,” Dr. Woolford cautioned.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against caffeine consumption by children and adolescents, with experts recommending a daily limit of 100 milligrams for teenagers, as noted in the study.
While around 60% of parents reported awareness of the risks associated with highly caffeinated products, nearly half admitted to rarely checking caffeine content when purchasing beverages for their teens.
Dr. Woolford recommended, “Parents should initiate conversations with their teenagers about the potential adverse effects of excessive caffeine consumption, and explore non-caffeinated alternatives that can be enjoyed at home, school, or social outings.”
She further suggested involving healthcare providers to educate teenagers about caffeine risks and to devise strategies for reducing consumption.
