Coffee Stunts Growth
The myth about coffee harming children’s growth began with a 1905 Postum ad campaign promoting a coffee alternative. Temperance movement materials in the 1920s linked caffeine to bone loss. Coffee consumption dropped 10% by 1930. Medical research finds no growth or bone impacts in children who drink 1-2 cups daily. Moderate caffeine intake up to 400mg is safe for most people. About 95% of American adults consume coffee regularly without developmental harm. Parental caution perpetuated this myth for generations.