Energy Drinks

By: Rachel Bui

So, what are Energy Drinks?

Energy Drinks are marketed to teenagers and young adults to "increase alertness and energy levels."(Ruiz and Scherr, 2018) Without looking at the ingredients, many may purchase them for a boost of energy, but they actually contain significant amounts of caffeine and as much or more sugar as in soda.” (Ruiz and Scherr, 2018)

Advertisement targeted to Teens

Youth populations are most targeted by marketing campaigns to purchase energy drinks. Whether advertisements for them pop up on websites they browse, computer games, and on social media, they get lured in to purchase them. They are also influenced by their peers to purchase and consume them without being educated and informed of potential harmful effects that could occur. (Ruiz and Scherr, 2018)

The few of many Negative Effects - There can be many side effects of consuming energy drinks at a large extent, and some include:

• Heart problems

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Elevated Blood Pressure

  • Seizures

  • Cardiac Arrest

• Increased risk of Obesity

  • Due to high sugar content

• Insomnia

  • Due to amount of caffeine consumed

• Metabolic & Dental problems

  • High sugar content erode enamel

  • High sugar content also increases risk of blood sugar spikes

• Poor mental health

  • Aggressive Behaviors

  • Risk-taking Behaviors

• Stomach irritation

  • Due to high acidity, excessive caffeine, and high sugar content

 (Ruiz and Scherr, 2018)

Healthy Alternatives!!

Chai: Chai is healthy alternative as it can support heart health and blood sugar regulation, while also providing a gentle caffeine boost for alertness and reducing stress and anxiety. The black tea base and spices like ginger and cinnamon are full of antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage. Drinking chai gives steady, and long-lasting energy and is most oftenly drank for both comfort and relaxation. (UCLA Health, 2022)

Matcha: Matcha is a another healthy alternative as it contains a small amount of caffeine, while also containing L-Theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness for the body. It can also boost brain and heart health, giving a more sustained energy boost that is much better for the body compared to energy drinks. Much research provides the information that matcha can also improve cognitive function, such as memory and attention. (Faley, 2025)

Black Tea: Black tea is naturally caffeinated and it also contains L-Theanine. This combination helps with both alertness and focus which can benefit for healthy study habits. It can also promote heart health and potentially reduce the risk of stroke due to its antioxidants. Black tea is also able to lower blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of dental plaque. (UCLA Health, 2022)