What About Energy Drinks for Kids? As some schools ban colas
from vending machines, ads are hyping a source of even more
caffeine: energy drinks. The pitch: These drinks can aid both
mental and physical performance. In reasonable amounts, caffeine
isn't harmful for children, but some experts suggest that kids
not go overboard on caffeinated drinks. The FDA does not
restrict caffeine in energy drinks, but it limits caffeine in
cola to about 5.4 mg per ounce. Most cola contains far less.
Energy drinks, however, often contain more. A 2006 study in the
Journal of Analytical Toxicology found that an 8-ounce serving
of many energy drinks has more than twice the caffeine of a
12-ounce can of caffeinated cola. Twelve ounces of Jolt, an
energy drink, contains 100 mg of caffeine; a Diet Coke has 45 mg
of caffeine. The FDA and other federal agencies do not have
guidelines on caffeine and children. Canada, however, recommends
that children ages 4 to 6 get no more than 45 mg of caffeine a
day, no more than 62.5 mg for chi