by PinkNic

Created on: February 28, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

First of all, what is caffeine?
Caffeine is a legal drug which has a similar effect on the human body as our natural stress response. It is a stimulant of the central nervous system and has an instant effect (which is why so many people use it as a pick-me-up), but this effect can last for up to eight hours.
Along with alcohol and cigarettes, caffeine is one of the world's most widely used drugs. It can be found in coffee, tea, fizzy drinks such as cola, energy drinks such as Red Bull, chocolate and hot chocolate.

The effects of caffeine on the human body
In small quantities, caffeine can increase energy levels, alertness and concentration. However, in excess it is linked to a number of health problems. It raises blood pressure, causes heart palpitations, increases anxiety, induces panic attacks, irritates the stomach lining, makes digestion less effective and raises the level of fatty acids in the blood. It can also cause shaking, and ringing in the ears. As a stimulant it can lead to insomnia and as it is a diuretic it can cause dehydration. Like any drug, it is possible to become addicted and withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, irritability and migraines.

Children and caffeine
It is not recommended that children consume caffeine. However, even if children are not given the obvious caffeine culprits such as coffee and tea, they are still being allowed to consume sweet foods and drinks such as chocolate and soda which contain high levels of the drug. These foods also contain a large amount of sugar, which is widely known as detrimental to health and so should be consumed in moderation.
Caffeine in children can cause hyperactivity and instead of increasing alertness and concentration, can actually decrease their ability to perform tasks well. Also, a child may be drinking caffeinated drinks instead of beneficial drinks like water, fruit juice and milk. As a result this can lead to dehydration and a lack of essential nutrients and vitamins.
Unfortunately, children are increasingly becoming the primary target for the caffeine industry. The mentality behind this is to get them addicted at an early age in order to gain their life-long custom. This is worse in the USA where there are chocolate and soft drink vending machines in every school but this is no longer allowed in Britain due to the health risks.

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