Caffeine is all the rage these days. From our deliciously sweet coffee at our local coffee joint, our energy drinks before the gym or even a shot of caffeine that can last up to 5 hours! Caffeine is the latest trend and youth are becoming addicted. We all remember our parents telling us “you cant drink my coffee, it’ll stunt your growth!” But now the question is.. does it really stunt your growth?

Thankfully, scientists have busted this myth time and time again! Researchers at Harvard Medical discuss that in previous research, it was thought that caffeine may play a role in osteoporosis (decreased bone mass), causing decreased height, however, that information was “debunked” with further research. The video below discusses how the myth began in the first place.

Caffeine: The Pro’s and Con’s and What You Should Know

Caffeine is considered a stimulant which speeds up messages from your brain to your body. This can cause your body to feel more awake, alert and energized. Caffeine can be found in a variety of foods such as coffee beans, chocolate, soft drinks, tea and more. Caffeine is known to have both positive and negative effects on your body, but it is up to you decide which outweighs the other.

By: Sarah.249

The Positive Effects of Caffeine
Decreased risk of:
– Stroke
– Heart Disease
– Alzheimer’s Disease
– Kidney Disease

Caffeine may also:
– Improve mood
– Promote weight loss
– Enhanced physical performance

The Negative Effects of Caffeine
Caffeine also has a negative impact on the body, including:
– Heartburn
– Decreased appetite
– Increased anxiety
– Increased heart rate
– Sleeplessness
– Dehydration
– Moodiness and agitation
– Stomach issues

The Bottom Line:
Whether you decide caffeine is worth the risks or worth the benefits, the important fact to remember is that “Caffeine can stunt your growth” has determined to be an “old wives tale”. Should you have further questions or concerns, its always important to remember to talk to your doctor first before making any decisions involving your health.

References

Department of Health & Human Services. (2000, June 14). Caffeine. Better Health Channel.         Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/caffeine

Harvard Health Publishers. (2020, January 7). Can coffee really stunt your growth? HarvardHealth. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/can-coffee-really-stunt-your-growth

Kaputk. (2022, May 9). Does coffee stunt your growth? Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/does-coffee-stunt-growth/Does coffee really stunt your growth? We found out. www.youtube.com. Accessed February 22, 2023.

YouTube. (2018). YouTube. Retrieved February 22, 2023, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEbiY90l38I.