Photo courtesy of Health and Sports editor Cate Tucker.

  As many San Luis Obispo High School students know, caffeine is a staple for many students. So, is there any harm in having caffeine at a younger age?

  “I drink coffee once in a while, but when I do, I feel awake and productive until I crash and feel the opposite,” said sophomore Kennedy Beltram.

  Studies have shown that 83.2 percent of teenagers consume caffeine regularly, whether it be in soft drinks, coffee beverages, energy drinks, or any other type of consumable energy source.

  There are many negatives of having caffeine frequently. Increased breathing and heart rate, feelings of anxiety, depression, chronic insomnia, and high blood pressure are just a few of the side effects.

  “I have two cups of coffee every morning. It definitely helps me wake up, but it makes me a little dazed when I am at school,” said junior Makena Johnson. 

  About 45 percent of teenagers experience some form of stress due to school. Having several cups of coffee before the school day even starts can increase the anxiety someone might already have. On top of stress at school, it could be damaging to one’s mental health.

  Imagine someone loves having a cup of coffee before school, or a coca-cola after. Is there a way to have caffeine and not feel the after effects?

  Teenagers aged 14-17 who consume 100mg or less caffeine a day will most likely not feel the effects of caffeine.  

  Something like an 8 fl oz cup of coffee, which has 95 mg of caffeine, is a great example. Furthermore, an 8 fl oz glass of cold brew would be 100 mg. A 12 fl oz of coca-cola has 32 mg of caffeine. Another popular drink, Celsius energy drink, has 200 mg in a 12 fl oz can, which is not ideal.  

  Teenagers should have caffeine in moderation. Stay healthy out there Tigers!

Source: Medicalnewstoday.com