Between 30 and 50 percent of teens drink energy drinks, according to a 2011 article published in the journal "Pediatrics." However, these drinks are associated with a number of side effects and safety concerns for teens. As they don't provide much of a benefit and contain ingredients that aren't well studied, teens shouldn't be consuming these beverages on a regular basis.
Nutrition
Energy drinks often contain a lot of calories due to added sugars as well as a lot of caffeine. They also tend to contain herbal stimulants, such as guarana. Some also contain B vitamins or other vitamins. In terms of nutritional content, they are similar to sodas with more caffeine. They are not healthy as they are mainly a source of empty calories.
Side Effects
Many of the side effects associated with energy drinks are due to the high levels of caffeine they contain. These include headaches, jitteriness, sleep problems, upset stomach, high blood pressure, seizures, hallucinations, irregular heartbeats, dehydration, nausea, tremors and irritability. Consuming excess amounts of the B-vitamins can cause numbness, tingling and a rapid heartbeat.
Safety
Because of the caffeine content in energy drinks and the potential side effects teens with diabetes, behavior or mood disorders, cardiac abnormalities, seizures and those who take certain medications should avoid drinking energy drinks. Athletes should not consume them before working out, since they can cause dehydration and lead to heart problems in these situations.
Considerations
Energy drinks usually contain a lot of calories, so drinking a lot of them can lead to weight gain. Teenagers shouldn't drink energy drinks regularly, they should be considered a treat for rare occasions. Otherwise they may get stuck in a jolt-and-crash cycle from the caffeine, according to a 2006 article on FoxNews.com.
References
- KidsHealth.org: The Buzz on Energy Foods
- MayoClinic.com; Energy Drinks: OK for Athletes?; Edward R. Laskowski, M.D.; August 2009
- "Pediatrics"; Health Effects of Energy Drinks on Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults; Sara M. Seifert, et al.; February 2011
- Fox News; Teens Abusing Energy Boosting Drinks, Doctors Fear; October 31, 2006
- El Paso Times; Overuse of Energy Drinks Danger to Teens; Aaron Bracamontes; Mar. 6, 2011
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