Coffee and Kids: When Can They Start?

From a very young age, children try to emulate adults in everything. If parents start their day with a cup of fragrant freshly roasted coffee, sooner or later, the child will want to partake in this ritual. However, responsible parents know that coffee is not recommended for children. We also offer a coffee subscription.

Why is Coffee Harmful to Children?

The nervous system and body of a child are so fragile that even relatively safe substances can be harmful. Caffeine is a powerful nervous system stimulant and can cause hyper-excitability and sleep problems. For instance, children aged 1-5 years weighing 15-18 kg should not exceed 37.5 - 45 mg of caffeine a day.

For children aged 10-14 years weighing 35-50 kg, the limit is 87.5 - 125 mg a day. An adult can have up to 400 mg of caffeine a day, which is equivalent to 3-4 cups of coffee.

Caffeine in Espresso

One espresso (30 g) contains about 126 mg of caffeine, which is three times the limit for a child aged 1-5 years. Coffee is strictly contraindicated for children of this age. It's also important to monitor the consumption of cocoa, tea, and chocolate.

How and When Can Coffee Be Introduced to a Child's Diet?

Children over 5 can have heavily milk-based coffee drinks, like a latte, but care should be taken to ensure it is Arabica with low caffeine content, and not more than one espresso a day. You might even ask the barista to make a half serving of espresso.

Teens and Coffee

Teenagers over 12 can gradually be introduced to coffee, but it is important to explain that their bodies are undergoing hormonal changes at this age, and caffeine stimulation can negatively affect their health.

The Dangers of Syrups and Additives

Coffee with milk and syrups is a high-calorie product that can lead to obesity, tooth decay, and other issues. Monitor the amount of sugar in such drinks.

Recommendations for Children's Coffee Consumption

  • Under 5 years old – coffee is undesirable, better to exclude it entirely.
  • From 5 to 12 years old – no more than one espresso a day.
  • From 12 years old – monitor the individual intake and health closely.
  • From 16 years old – up to 400 mg of caffeine per day (3-4 cups) is acceptable.

Buy Quality Coffee Beans

If you decide to add a little coffee to your child's diet, check out our online store at buno.com.ua. We offer Arabica with low caffeine and decaf from Colombia. Our coffee will pleasantly surprise you with its quality and price.

Remember that coffee doesn't replace water, and it's important to maintain a water balance. Limit sweet additives, and stay healthy!