Review claims moderate caffeine intake is safe for children
A recent review of medical studies suggests that moderate daily intake of caffeinated beverages such as tea does not harm children and may even have beneficial effects. While increasing consumption of caffeinated beverages by young children and adolescents stokes fears of negative repercussions on their health, this systemic review of 13 observational studies and official guidance on caffeine consumption from several countries claims that caffeine is unlikely to be harmful when consumed in moderation. In fact, the review cites a study that found that caffeine intake in low doses actually improves performance on attention and motor task tests in children. The results suggest that younger children may safely consume up to two daily cups of tea and older school aged children can consume up to three cups of tea a day.