Why kids and teens should avoid energy drinks

Energy drinks are continuing to grow in popularity among teens, with up to 50% of adolescents consuming energy drinks, according to the CDC. But how safe are energy drinks for kids or teens?

Chad Vercio, MD, Division Chief of General Pediatrics, Med-Peds, and Pediatric Hospitalists at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital (LLUCH), says they're not, both because of the caffeine, a psychostimulant, and the amount of sugar they contain.

Should kids be drinking energy drinks?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children should avoid caffeine altogether, including energy drinks.

Vercio emphasizes that there is no safe amount of caffeine for children under 12. For teens ages 12-18, the recommendation is still to avoid caffeine, but if they do consume it, they should keep it under 100 mg per day, and energy drinks can contain far more than that.

"The average brewed cup of coffee has about 96 mg of caffeine, and espresso is in the 60 mg range - whereas energy drinks can contain up to 400 mg," Vercio explains. "With that exceeding the AAP's recommendations, there really isn't a reason for kids to be drinking energy drinks."

What are the effects of energy drinks on kids?

Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which can lead to:

• Anxiety symptoms

• Difficulty sleeping

• Elevated heart rate

• Increased blood pressure

While energy drinks may provide a temporary energy boost for adults, Vercio says that benefit doesn't apply to kids.

"Energy drinks can be helpful for adults in specific situations, like staying alert during a long drive," Vercio says. "But kids are often drinking them just to stay awake for school or focus, and that's not necessary."

Vercio also notes that many energy drinks are high in added sugar, which can negatively impact both behavioral and physical health.

Alternatives

The best alternative to energy drinks depends on the situation, Vercio says.

If a child is exercising outdoors or spending time in the heat, hydration is key. In those cases, rehydration fluids - often called sports drinks - can help replenish electrolytes.