BUST THAT MYTH

Coffee stunts growth

For some time, growing teens were warned drinking coffee would stunt their growth. However, there’s no evidence it has any effect on height.

One study tracked 81 women aged 12–18 for six years.

It found no difference in bone health between those who had the highest daily caffeine intake, compared to those with the lowest.

The exact origin of this myth is unknown, but it’s thought to have something to do with the caffeine that is naturally found in coffee. Early research suggested an association between caffeine intake and reduced calcium absorption, which is necessary for bone strength and health.

Therefore, it wasn’t far-fetched to warn growing adolescents about drinking coffee out of fear it would prevent their bones from fully developing.

However, the reduction in calcium absorption associated with caffeine intake is so small it can be offset by adding 1–2 tablespoons of milk to every 6oz cup (180ml) of coffee you drink.