The effects of de-caffeinated coffee versus whole coffee on hyperactive children

The effects of whole coffee and de-caffeinated coffee on hyperactive children were compared, using a double-blind crossover design. Reactions were assessed by tests of concentration, digit recall, visuo-motor co-ordination, and parents' and teachers' rating scales. Whole coffee was associated with a significant improvement on all measures when compared with de-caffeinated coffee. The results suggest that whole coffee as part of the normal diet may be a useful first step in the treatment of hyperactive children.