Energy Drinks

Energy drinks have been increasing in popularity, especially among teens and children. Due to several articles in the media about negative health effects experienced by people who consumed too many energy drinks, some parents and school personnel have become concerned about their growing popularity specifically among teens and children.
However, if you are aware of how much caffeine you are consuming, people of all ages can safely consume energy drinks in moderation. Caffeine is the primary ingredient in most energy drinks, and is often blamed for causing the negative health effects some people have experienced after consuming too many energy drinks. However, the majority of the healthy population can safely enjoy moderate amounts of caffeine without experiencing undesirable symptoms.
Staying aware of how much caffeine you are consuming each day from energy drinks, as well as other sources such as coffee, tea, soda, dietary supplements, and medications, is important to stay within moderate, safe intake levels. Learning how to determine the caffeine content of each item, as well as the number of servings per container, will help you to know how to moderate your consumption. You can also help children and teens learn how to moderate their consumption so that they can safely enjoy an energy drink or soda responsibly without risking undesirable symptoms.
Below are some common questions consumers have about energy drinks and how they work to increase feelings of energy, and what you can do to help children and teens consume them in moderation along with a healthful diet.
Q: What are energy drinks?
A: The term “energy drink” is a popular term used to refer to some beverages that typically contain caffeine as well as other ingredients, such as taurine, guarana, and B vitamins, for the purpose of providing an extra energy boost. It is not a term that is recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Q: What are