The Dangers of Energy Drinks for Kids
They come in colorful cans, promise a boost of energy, and are often marketed like soft drinks. But energy drinks are anything but harmless. Research has shown nearly a third of teens regularly consume energy drinks, raising concerns of further health complications later in life. Learn more about the potential dangers of these sugary, caffeinated drinks and make informed choices to protect your children’s health.
What is in an Energy Drink?
Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and an assortment of stimulants such as taurine, guarana, and ginseng. A typical energy drink may contain 120-200 milligrams of caffeine, roughly equal to two cups of coffee or six cans of soda, according to healthcare professionals.
Why Are Energy Drinks Dangerous for Kids?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children and adolescents should avoid caffeine altogether. Both small children and teenagers are more sensitive to stimulants, and their smaller bodies are less equipped to handle the sudden spike in heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar these drinks cause. Overconsumption of energy drinks can lead to:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure, which can lead to palpitations or even cardiac arrest in rare cases
- Anxiety, irritability, and sleep disturbances, especially when consumed later in the day
- Obesity and type 2 diabetes due to excessive sugar content
- Disruptions to normal brain development, potentially affecting focus, impulse control, and mood
- Dependence with withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and poor concentration
What Can Parents Do?
- Educate your kids: Talk openly about what is in energy drinks and why they’re not healthy choices.
- Set clear rules: Make a household rule that energy drinks are off-limits.
- Read labels together: Help them understand ingredient lists and recognize stimulants.
- Promote healthy alternatives: Encourage water, fruit-infused water, smoothies, or electrolyte drinks without caffeine.
- Lead by example: Kids watch what adults consume and opt for healthy drinks yourself.
Providing a Healthier Future
Energy drinks might seem like a quick fix for fatigue, but the risks far outweigh the rewards — especially for children and teens. Protecting kids means staying informed, setting boundaries, and fostering healthy habits early. If you have additional concerns or questions about your child’s energy drink or caffeine consumption, schedule an appointment with Courtney Elliot, CPNP-PC at the Elmer Hugh Taylor Clinic in Beardstown.
Sources:
Corkins, Mark R. The Effects of Caffeine on Kids: A Parent’s Guide. HealthyChildren.org, American Academy of Pediatrics, 28 Jan. 2025, www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/the-effects-of-caffeine-on-kids-a-parents-guide.aspx.
Bracho-Sanchez, Edith. “Are Energy Drinks Safe for Kids?” Health Matters, NewYork-Presbyterian, www.healthmatters.nyp.org/are-energy-drinks-safe-for-kids/.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Buzz on Energy Drinks [Infographic]. CDC, Sept. 2024, www.cdc.gov/school-nutrition/media/images/2024/09/The_Buzz_on_Energy_Drinks_infographic.png.
“Why Kids and Teens Should Avoid Energy Drinks.” Seattle Children’s, www.seattlechildrens.org/healthy-tides/why-kids-and-teens-should-avoid-energy-drinks/.
“Is Coffee Bad for Kids?” Johns Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/is-coffee-bad-for-kids.
“Energy Drinks and Kids.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/energy-drinks-and-kids.