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Caffeine intake reduces sleep duration in adolescents
Francesca Lodato1, Joana Araújo, Henrique Barros
1Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Predictive Medicine and Public Health, University of Porto Medical School, Porto, Portugal; Department GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
Higher caffeine intake in adolescents is linked to shorter sleep duration. Soft drinks, particularly iced tea and cola, are major sources of caffeine in this age group.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Adolescent Health
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Adolescent sleep patterns are crucial for development and well-being.
- Caffeine consumption is prevalent among adolescents, with potential impacts on sleep.
- Understanding caffeine sources is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between caffeine intake and sleep duration in 13-year-old adolescents.
- To identify the primary food and beverage sources contributing to caffeine consumption in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1522 adolescents (born in 1990) from Porto, Portugal.
- Dietary intake assessed using self-administered food frequency questionnaires.
- Statistical analysis to determine associations between caffeine intake, sleep duration, and demographic factors.
Main Results:
- Median caffeine intake was 23.1 mg/day, with soft drinks (iced tea, cola) being the main source.
- Higher caffeine intake was significantly associated with shorter sleep duration (OR=1.12 for sleeping ≤8.5 hours per 10 mg/day increase).
- Adolescents with less sleep and more TV time reported higher caffeine intake; boys consumed more from soft drinks.
Conclusions:
- Caffeine intake is inversely associated with sleep duration in adolescents.
- Soft drinks are a significant source of caffeine, impacting adolescent sleep quality.
- Further research and public health strategies are needed to address caffeine consumption and sleep in young people.
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