It is first period, and someone two seats over opens a can of “Cosmic Stardust.” This hiss of carbonation cuts through the silent classroom and you look over at your friend who has a can of “Witch’s Brew” next to their half-finished essay. Energy drinks have become a survival juice at this point. Between late-night cramming and early morning alarms, energy drinks can feel less like a choice and more like a necessity for some.
Though the energy drink aisle in the grocery store looks tempting with cans glowing under the fluorescent lights, all neon colors, slick designs, and names that sound like action movies. For example, Monster’s “Pipeline Punch,” Rockstar Energy’s “Silver Ice,” and Ghost’s “’Merica Pop.” They may look and taste cool, but the inside isn’t so cool.
Energy drinks contain caffeine, often packing anywhere from 160 to 300 milligrams per can. For comparison, an 8-ounce cup of coffee has around 95 milligrams. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, adolescents shouldn’t consume more than 100 milligrams of caffeine per day, yet one can of Bang or Celsius can triple that limit. Over time, this much caffeine can lea to increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and even heart palpitations.
The sugar content in energy drinks is equally as high. A 16-ounce can of Monster contains 54 grams of sugar, which is more that double the recommended daily limit for teenagers, according to the American Heart Association. This sugar spike might feel great for an hour, but the crash hits hard, leaving you more tired than before.
A study published in Pediatrics found that frequent energy drink consumption among adolescents was linked to poor sleep quality, increased stress, and even higher risk-taking behaviors.
Energy drinks aren’t the enemy, but they’re best in moderation. If they’re the only think getting someone through the school day, it might be worth figuring out why, whether it’s lack of sleep, dehydration, or just an overloaded schedule. Ultimately, no amount of “Rainbow Sour Candy Voltage Surge” is worth feeling drained by lunchtime.
