Coffee can Stunt Child’s Growth

Coffee can stunt child’s growth

Drinking coffee has not effect on height. This myth continues to persists, because some people insist that caffeine is a risk factor for osteoporosis.

Results of the Framingham Heart Study, a 30-year study on people who drink coffee, don’t show any evidence that caffeine can significantly stunt a child’s growth. The study was a project of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and Boston University, both in the United States.

It should be noted, however, that it is the replacement of calcium-rich beverages )e.g., milk) with caffeinated drinks (e.g., sodas) that is directly linked to reduced bone health, and not caffeine itself. Besides, the researchers argue that even if caffeine does offset calcium absorption, the effect is so slight to be considerable. As a rule, however, parents should still limit their kid’s caffeine consumption because it can interfere with sleep, contribute to dehydration, and aggravate hyperactivity. Other potential side effects of ingesting too much caffeine include: nervousness, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, irritability, insomnia, and stomach discomfort.

A typical cup of coffee (207 ml) contains about 80 to 140 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the bean and method of roasting and preparation.

Source:

► Fact or fiction: Common diet myths dispelled. www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16280050/
► Will drinking coffee really stunt the growth of children? http://ask.yahoo.com/20030519.html