Hello,
I am curious if you know about the administration of caffeine in countries like Argentina - although it's not specifically coffee, it is reportedly so common to consume Maté there that they give it even to small children. If that's the case, what consequences might it have for children, including toddlers?
Thank you very much.
Caffeine in its pure form is quickly metabolized and is typically associated with commonly presented side effects. Its binding to phytochemical compounds in plants mitigates these properties, varying to different extents with each herb. However, it is always a mixture that has stimulating effects, making the consumption of such products unsuitable for children. The fact is that in some "developing" countries, traditions have a strong influence, and modern insights are sometimes disregarded (a typical example is the chewing of coca leaves, although compared to this, maca is a much milder alternative). The impact of these substances on the child's body is predominantly negative, particularly concerning the development of their nervous system.
Questions answered by
Mgr. Martin Jelinek
Lecturer and author of the educational system
Nutrition educator, lecturer, and author of the educational system and the ZOF learning application.
Mgr. Martin Jelínek has been systematically involved in nutrition education since 1999. He is the founder of ATAC, the educational company behind NutriCourses, and the author of an educational system focused on nutrition, healthy lifestyle, and the practical application of nutrition knowledge.
He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Masaryk University in Brno. Throughout his professional career, he has combined nutrition, education, and the practical application of acquired knowledge. His educational system also includes the ZOF (Zone of Optimal Functioning) learning application, where students turn theory into practical work with meal plans.
In 2007, he launched the first intake of a six-month course focused on the education of nutrition advisors. Over time, this course became the foundation for the further development of the educational system and a range of specialised courses.