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While it's still too early to pull all-nighters for studying, students heading back to classes at all levels may be tempted to seek an "energy drink" to manage the shift to early mornings, homework, athletics and busy afterschool schedules.
But experts with Aspirus Health caution that energy drinks are not a safe or healthy way for children and teens to stay alert.
Energy drinks often contain high levels of caffeine, added sugars and other stimulants that can affect sleep, mood, hydration and heart health. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends adolescents avoid energy drinks, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes these products can contribute to dehydration, anxiety, insomnia and heart-related complications.
"Energy drinks can be especially concerning for students because they may mask fatigue without addressing what the body actually needs, such as sleep, hydration, balanced meals and time to recover," Rachel Rindt, a family nurse practitioner, said in a news release from Aspirus Health. "For many kids and teens, caffeine can worsen sleep problems, increase jitteriness or anxiety, and make it harder to focus in the long run."
Students may not realize how much caffeine they are consuming, especially when energy drinks are combined with coffee, soda, tea, pre-workout supplements or caffeinated snacks. Caffeine can remain in the body for hours, which can interfere with sleep and create a cycle of tiredness that leads to more caffeine use the next day.
Aspirus suggests parents and caregivers talk with students about labels, caffeine content and healthier ways to manage energy during the school year. Good routines -- including consistent sleep, regular meals, water, physical activity and limited screen time before bed -- are more effective and safer than relying on highly caffeinated drinks.
"The goal is not to shame students who have tried energy drinks," Rindt said in the release. "It is to help families understand the risks and encourage healthier habits that support learning, athletics and overall well-being."
Families should contact a health care professional in their area if a child or teen experiences chest pain, a racing or irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe anxiety, vomiting, confusion or other concerning symptoms after consuming caffeine or an energy drink, Aspirus advises.