Energy Drinks and Their Effects on Children's Health

Today, energy drinks have become popular among young people. They also bring potential risks to children's health. The caffeine, sugar and other stimulants in these energy-packed drinks can have serious effects on children.

What Is an Energy Drink?

Energy drinks are drinks that usually contain caffeine, sugar, vitamins, amino acids and other energy-boosting ingredients. These drinks are generally designed to provide quick energy. They are usually drunk by athletes, students or people with a busy work schedule.

What Ingredients Are Found in Energy Drinks?

The main ingredients found in these drinks are:

• Caffeine: caffeine, a stimulant usually found in energy drinks, increases alertness and energy levels.
• Sugar and sweeteners: these drinks usually contain sugar or sweeteners. Sugar provides a quick source of energy.
• B vitamins: energy drinks usually contain B vitamins. These vitamins play an important role in contributing to energy production.
• Amino acids: some drinks may contain amino acids, taurine in particular. Although there are claims that these substances raise energy levels, scientific opinion on this varies.
• Herbal extracts and adaptogens: some energy drinks may contain herbal ingredients such as plant extracts or adaptogens. Research is continuing into whether these substances contribute to energy or stamina.

When Are Energy Drinks Used?

Energy drinks may be used in certain situations where a quick lift in energy is wanted. These include:

• Intense physical activity: athletes and people who exercise may use energy drinks during long, intense activity.
• Long periods of work or study: especially around exams or at busy times of work, these drinks may be used to stay awake and focused.
• Night shifts: night shift workers may use energy drinks when they feel sleepy or want to raise their energy levels.
• Situations where alertness is needed: for example, drivers may turn to energy drinks to stay alert on long journeys.
• Physical or mental tiredness: when you feel physically or mentally tired, energy drinks may give a short-term lift in energy.

Are Energy Drinks Suitable for Children?

Energy drinks are generally not recommended for children. To provide the energy children need during their growth and development, and to support healthy habits, balanced eating, drinking an appropriate amount of water and getting enough sleep are important. Energy drinks do not provide the nutritional value that children need. The high amounts of caffeine, sugar and other stimulants in them can also have negative effects on children's health.

Effects of Energy Drinks on Children's Health

Children drinking energy drinks can lead to potential risks. For the following reasons these drinks are not recommended for children:

• Caffeine sensitivity: children are generally more sensitive to caffeine, and taking in too much can cause effects such as sleeplessness, irritability and restlessness.
• Nutritional balance: these drinks are usually high in sugar. This can make it harder for children to build a healthy nutritional balance. Too much sugar can lead to obesity, tooth decay and other health problems.
• High calories: energy drinks contain calories, but these calories are usually not nutritious. Children should get the energy they need from a balanced diet and healthy food sources.
• Health risks: children drinking energy drinks can lead to a faster heart rate, a rise in blood pressure and other health problems.

Healthy Alternatives to Energy Drinks

It is important to turn to healthier alternatives to meet children's energy needs. These alternatives include:

• Water: clean water is a basic need of the body. Making drinking water a habit for children is an effective way to keep them hydrated and to keep their energy levels steady.
• Milk: milk contains calcium, which is important for bone development, and other nutrients. Milk, a good drink for children, can also help to meet their energy needs.
• Natural fruit juices: fruit juices with no added sugar can help children to meet their vitamin and mineral needs. However, choose natural fruit juices that do not contain a high amount of sugar, and keep portions small.
• Smoothies: homemade smoothies made from fresh fruit and vegetables give children a tasty source of energy. Adding protein can increase the feeling of fullness.

This article is for general information only; please consult your doctor and dietitian about your own situation.