SIR Social Sciences Investigation Abstract
BEHAVIORAL EFFECTS OF CAFFEINATED COLA CONSUMPTION ON FIRST GRADERS
Presenter:
Ying Ye, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL, 60506
Mentor:
Dr. Alan Hirsch, Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, Ltd.
Abstract:
Introduction: Use of caffeinated cola by children is ubiquitous in our society. The potential psychological effects of this include DSM-IV caffeine induced anxiety and sleeping disorders, and withdrawal symptoms. Manufactures continue to add caffeine to cola and target young children for marketing despite that the effects of caffeinated cola in this age group have not been explored. Methods: In a double blinded fashion, twenty 1st graders (ten of each gender) were presented with caffeine free cola and caffeinated cola for ad lib consumption in three hour epochs sequentially over two weeks. Average consumption of caffeine free cola and of caffeinated cola was 7.55 oz (2 to 12) and 9.45 oz (2 to 12), respectively. After completion of each session, teachers rated each student with a six question modified Connors test. Results: The modified Connors score was an average of 5.45 points higher for caffeine than for caffeine-free cola. (p=.017, 2-tailed t-test) In response to caffeine intake, 60% (12) students’ scores increased compared to 12% (3) whose scores decreased (p=.079). Even after adjusting for number of ounces, there is still a significant increase in the Connor score comparing caffeine to caffeine-free soda. (t= 2.69, p= 0.0151) Conclusion: First graders manifested behavioral problems when presented with caffeinated cola, suggesting that consumption of this should be minimized.