Good & Bad Effects of Coffee for Teenagers

Teens are drinking less soda, according to a 2014 study published in Pediatrics, but seem to be replacing it with more coffee. While coffee does offer some health benefits, it is a source of caffeine, which can have a negative effect on teen health. If you think your teen is drinking too much coffee, talk to your family doctor or pediatrician.

Benefits from Antioxidants

• While the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that teens not consume coffee, it's not all bad. Coffee is a natural source of antioxidants. These are substances that protect the body's cells against damage from free radicals and may help prevent or delay chronic illness. Teens may not be thinking much about their health as an adult, but including more antioxidant-rich foods like coffee may offer some benefit to their future health.

  There's also some evidence that coffee may reduce risk of diabetes, gallstones and Parkinson's disease, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. More research is necessary to confirm these benefits, however.

Effects of Too Much Caffeine

• One cup of brewed coffee contains 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that stimulant-containing beverages, including coffee, have no place in a teen's diet. High intakes of caffeine may increase a teen's heart rate and blood pressure. Caffeine may also lead to hyperactivity and anxiety.

  Caffeine intake also seems to affect teen girls and boys differently, according to a 2014 study published in Pediatrics. This study noted changes in heart rate and blood pressure during different phases of a girl's menstrual cycle. The researchers recommend more studies to further evaluate the effect of caffeine on heart health in teens.

Too Many Extra Calories

• Teens are drinking less soda, but they may not be consuming less sugar. Many coffee drinks are loaded with calories from sugar and fat. In fact, these drinks may be higher in calories and fat than a can of soda.

  For example, a mocha coffee drink at a trendy coffeehouse may have as much as 400 calories, 11 grams of fat and 61 grams of carbs in a 12-ounce serving. While a can of cola does not make a healthier option, it's much lower in calories with about 150 per 12-ounce serving, and cola is fat-free as well.

Healthier Alternatives

• When it comes to drinks for teens, water and milk are the best choices, says KidsHealth. Water makes a good calorie-free thirst quencher, while milk helps ensure your teen gets more calcium in her diet.

  Teens need 3 cups of fat-free milk a day and at least 8 cups of water daily.