Information for Parents on Caffeine in Energy Drinks

October 2011

News Release: Harper Government Announces New Measures to Support Families - New Approach on Energy Drinks

How much caffeine is safe for my children?

Health Canada recommends the maximum daily caffeine intake for children under 12 should not exceed 2.5 mg/kg of body weight. Based on average body weights of children, this means a maximum of:

• 45 mg for children aged four to six, about one 355ml can of cola
• 62.5 mg for children aged seven to nine, about one and a half 355ml cans of cola
• 85 mg for children aged 10 to 12, nearly two 355ml cans of cola

Teens should follow the precautionary recommendations of 2.5 mg/kg body weight. Older and heavier adolescents may be able to consume up to the adult limit: 400 mg/day.

Which products have caffeine in them?

Caffeine is found in a variety of products -- coffee, tea, chocolate, cola and certain medications as well as energy drinks and so-called energy shots.

For a quick reference of how much caffeine can be found in a variety of foods, please see Health Canada's Caffeine in Food page.

The level of caffeine in energy drinks is different in each product, but can range anywhere from 50 mg per can to above 200 mg per can, which may exceed the maximum daily intake recommended by Health Canada for most children and teens.

What should I know about energy drinks and my kids?

Energy drinks are not recommended for children and teens because of their high levels of caffeine, and other ingredients. In some cases, one energy drink could have more caffeine than the recommended daily intake for many children and teens.

It's hard to link levels of caffeine to specific health effects because everybody has a different tolerance for caffeine, but we do know that children are at increased risk of experiencing behavioural effects from consuming caffeine.

Health Canada has received a number of reports of suspected health problems associated with energy drinks. Symptoms have included irregular heart beat and nervousness. If you suspect your child is experiencing such problems contact your health care professional and report the problem to the manufacturer.

Is it safe to use energy drinks to keep hydrated while playing sports?

Energy drinks should not be confused with sports drinks such as Gatorade^® or Powerade^®. Sports drinks re-hydrate the body and provide sugars, which the body burns to create energy and replenish electrolytes. Electrolytes maintain salt and potassium balances in the body.

Energy drinks, on the other hand, should not be used as a fluid replacement. Because of their caffeine content, they can actually mask the signs of dehydration.

What advice can I give my kids for using Energy Drinks safely?

They should carefully read the labels of all health products they consume, including energy drinks, and follow label instructions.

They should consume energy drinks in moderation. Energy drinks should not be taken on an empty stomach and should not replace food.

They should never mix energy drinks with alcohol.

If they engage in intense physical activity or exercise they should not use energy drinks as a fluid replacement. They should drink water or sports drinks such as Gatorade^® or Powerade^® for that.