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Hi Dr. Steve,
My family keeps telling me that coffee is not a kids drink but when I ask them why they don't have an answer. My daughter loves decaf coffee. Is it harming her?
Christyne
Lakeview, NY

Hi Christine,

Caffeine isn't recommended for kids for a variety of reasons. First, it's a stimulant and that can cause problems for a variety with anxiety, irritability, and nervousness. It can also disturb sleep and dehydrate you because it acts like a diuretic. For kids building bones is important and caffeine can affect calcium absorption. As far as decaf is concerned, remember decaf does not mean caffeine free. A decaf coffee can still have anywhere from 8 to 15 milligrams of caffeine. That's not too bad because children should not get more than about 100 milligrams of caffeine a day. The problem is, children get caffeine from many different sources like soda and chocolate, so I wouldn't encourage your child to drink coffee, even decaf.

Thanks,
Dr. Steve

Hey Dr.Steve,
I had a stroke a few years ago and I haven't gained all my strength back in my legs and arms. What can I do to help myself along?
Quintar
Newark, NJ

Hi Quintar,

Some people recover completely from a stroke, other have lingering effects that can last a lifetime. How much you recover depends on a number of things, like how severe the stroke was, how good your rehab team was, how soon you started rehab after your stroke and the support network you have at home. Rehab for stroke should last as long as is necessary and you can do it at home. I would speak to your doctor or neurologist about the options. In the meantime, the best thing you can do now is take good care of yourself. That means eating right, exercising and quitting smoking if you smoke. You'll also have to limit your alcohol intake.

Good luck,
Dr. Steve