Can Kids Drink Decaf Coffee?

So, can children drink decaf coffee? The short answer is yes, but it’s not recommended as a regular addition to their diet. 

Decaf coffee still contains a small amount of caffeine and offers little to no nutritional benefit for children - especially those under the age of 12. 

In the UK, it’s best to limit children’s caffeine intake and prioritise the good stuff like milk and water to support healthy growth and development. 

The experts here at Crosby Coffee delve into how much caffeine decaf drinks contain, what age you can drink decaf coffee, and suitable alternatives for growing tinks. 

What ‘Decaf’ Really Means 

Decaf is a great option for adults wanting the punchy flavour of an afternoon coffee, without that high-alert feeling when it’s time to wind down. 

But, contrary to popular belief, decaf coffee still contains caffeine.

Compared to the usual average of around 80-100mg per cup of Joe, decaf options tend to range between 2 and 5mg per cup. Yes, this is only a skimpy amount, but imagine the effects this could have on a child.

How Caffeine Affects Children 

Children are much more sensitive to caffeine compared to adults. It can cause: 

• Disturbed sleep duration and quality

• Increased nervousness and restlessness

• Stomach irritation, nausea, and vomiting

• Heightened blood pressure 

• Iron absorption deficiencies 

Age-Based Guidance 

When parents wonder whether their kids can drink decaf coffee, the answer is dependent on age and how often they’d be drinking it. 

In the UK, it’s recommended that children avoid caffeine when and where possible, especially under the age of 16. This extends to the caffeine percentage in fizzy drinks, energy drinks, flavoured water, and iced tea, which ranges between 20 and 100mg. 

Can 9-Year-Olds Drink Decaf Coffee?

Something very milky with just a dash of coffee every now and then won’t take too much of a toll, but it’s best to stay away. Being so young, 9-year-olds are still developing, so it’s important to avoid caffeine in their diet as much as possible. 

Can 10-Year-Olds Drink Decaf Coffee?

Even when a child reaches double digits, it’s still best to minimise caffeine intake. While small amounts are unlikely to cause great concern, it shouldn’t be a daily routine. 

Can 11-Year-Olds Drink Decaf Coffee?

Although they’re approaching their teenage years, nutrition and hydration are more effective than caffeine to energise them, rather than a morning cuppa. 

Can 12-Year-Olds Drink Decaf Coffee?

Once a child reaches adolescence, they may feel drawn to caffeinated drinks for an energy boost before a busy day. But a small decaf coffee is better than a strong espresso if they fancy the flavour. 

What Age Can I Drink Caffeine?

There is no legal minimum age for drinking caffeine in the UK, but health guidance discourages regular caffeine consumption in children. 

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) advises that a child shouldn’t have 3mg of caffeine per kg of body weight each day. This means even one regular coffee could exceed these recommendations in young children. 

Overall, children under 12 should keep caffeine consumption to a minimum. Decaf coffee is a safer option than regular coffee and fizzy drinks, but it should still be consumed only occasionally.

Does Decaf Coffee Have Any Benefits for Kids?

Generally, no. And, due to the small amount of caffeine still remaining, it’s not something you’d want to give your kids regularly until they’re older and fully developed to reduce potential side effects. 

The only exception for kids drinking caffeine is when they’re having trouble with their stomach. Studies show that a small, decaf coffee actually helps to relieve short-term constipation in children - even more so than caffeinated coffee - due to the stimulant effect. 

Alternatives to Decaf Coffee 

Ideally, children and teenagers should be getting all their energy from food and water. But, if they want to feel like an adult for the day, a few child-friendly options include: 

• Caffeine-free herbal teas 

• ‘Babychinos’ (frothed, sometimes flavoured, milk) 

• Hot chocolates 

• Hot milk with natural sweeteners like honey or syrups

So, Can Children Drink Decaf Coffee?

Small amounts of caffeine on rare occasions are perfectly fine. But it’s important to remember decaf doesn’t mean no-caf. 

Why not treat them to a hot chocolate at a Crosby Coffee location here in Liverpool instead? Luxurious and tasty, without the associated side-effects.