Caffeine use in the sports world isn’t new – there’s no shortage of caffeine-containing sports supplements. But gaming, or esports, is another sports subculture increasingly using these products and gaining attention from product manufacturers. It’s important to keep an eye on these products and discuss safe use – especially as kids and teens spend more time gaming over the holidays.
Many new caffeine products promoted for gamers are powders to be mixed with water – often flavored like popular candies. They typically contain about 100-200 mg of caffeine per serving (one scoop), along with several other nootropics. While adults can consume up to 400 mg of caffeine daily without major side effects, daily caffeine intake in kids and teens should be limited to less than 2.5 mg/kg. This means that the average 12-year-old weighing 41 kg (~90 lbs) shouldn’t consume more than 100 mg of caffeine, or about 1 cup of coffee, daily.
Advise parents to keep these types of products away from kids and teens, and use a cautious approach in adults. Even if they think the amount of caffeine listed on the label is safe, it’s easy to overdo it with a heaping scoop. Many of these products also include caffeine-containing natural ingredients like guarana and green tea – caffeine contents don’t need to be disclosed for these. Plus, overall caffeine intake can add up fast. For example, one cup of coffee contains 95-200 mg of caffeine, one 12 oz soda typically contains 20-80 mg of caffeine, and 1 oz of dark chocolate contains about 12 mg of caffeine.
Caffeine isn’t going away – and it does offer benefits when used appropriately – but always advise caution when it comes to use in kids. Check out our recently updated caffeine monograph to learn more.
The information in this brief report is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions. Copyright © 2024 NatMed. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited. NatMed is the leading provider of high-quality, evidence-based, clinically-relevant information on natural medicine, dietary supplements, herbs, vitamins, minerals, functional foods, diets, complementary practices, CAM modalities, exercises and medical conditions. Monograph sections include interactions with herbs, drugs, foods and labs, contraindications, depletions, dosing, toxicology, adverse effects, pregnancy and lactation data, synonyms, safety and effectiveness.
