There is no evidence that caffeine stunts growth per se, but it does represent a missed opportunity for children to intake beneficial nutrients. Whenever caffeinated soda or a cup of coffee displaces a glass of milk, the body is deprived of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, potassium, B-vitamins, and other nutrients. A high calcium intake is particularly important in youth when calcium uptake by the bones is at its peak. In addition, caffeine unnecessarily stimulates the central nervous system and can create a dependency. The bottom line: caffeinated beverages are not recommended during growth.