A 1992 study published in Clinical Pediatrics showed no clear behavior toxicity from caffeine in normal children. In levels consumed by most children, caffeine does not appear to produce adverse effects. Which foods and beverages children consume is a decision that should be made within each individual family. Newer coffee drinks and the marketing of these products are designed to attract young adults, not children, to the unique taste and aroma of coffee. In 1985, seven percent of 10 to 19 year olds drank coffee, and in 1996, the percentage remained the same.
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system.
Recent research has shown that caffeine in moderate doses enhances alertness, well-being, energy, motivation and concentration. Caffeine has been found to improve alertness, as well as prolong beneficial mood effects in individuals deprived of sleep for 48 hours. Although a few people may be particularly sensitive to any source of stimulation, including caffeine, there is no conclusive evidence that caffeine causes symptoms of anxiety in healthy individuals. In fact, many studies have found that consuming caffeine has a positive effect on exercise performance, increasing both energy and endurance. This information has been reviewed by Alan Leviton, M.D., an epidemiologist in Boston.