Energy drinks have become a major concern and a controversial topic in schools. These highly caffeinated beverages are marketed as a way to stay awake and focused, but in reality, they pose serious health risks, especially for teenagers. Schools have already considered banning energy drinks for students to protect their health and well-being.
The biggest problem with energy drinks is their high caffeine and sugar content. Many contain more caffeine than a cup of coffee, along with excessive sugar and other stimulants. This combination can cause difficulty sleeping, heart palpitations and anxiety. Students who drink them regularly may experience energy crashes, making it even harder to focus in school. Instead of helping students succeed, energy drinks can make it harder for them to learn.
Mr. Kokx, Aliso’s health teacher shares, “By the time the drinks wear off students are not as attentive and engaged as they were before.”
Some argue that students should be responsible for their own choices, but this ignores the reality of how these drinks are marketed.
Joel Shin (10) shares, “Although school can get very stressful at times, I feel like energy drinks are not necessary since what is needed is better time management.”
Energy drink companies target young people with flashy advertising and claims of improved performance. However, research shows that these drinks can actually lead to high blood pressure and long-term health problems. Schools have a responsibility to protect students from harmful products, just as they regulate unhealthy snacks and sugary sodas for lunch.
In the United States, some schools have already banned energy drinks on campus, and more should follow. When students consume multiple energy drinks in a short period, it can lead to dangerous side effects like dizziness and nausea. Some students use them to stay awake after late nights studying, but lack of sleep combined with caffeine dependence is a recipe for disaster. Instead of allowing students to rely on artificial energy, schools should encourage healthier habits like better sleep and nutrition.
Ms. Lanning, Aliso’s librarian says, “Instead of relying on energy drinks, I recommend students to get more rest, exercise and organize their schedule.”
Schools have banned cigarettes and vaping products, and while some students still find ways to access them, bans have significantly reduced their use. Energy drinks should be treated the same way.
Some businesses may be concerned about lost sales, but public health should take priority over profits. Companies have already been forced to adjust their marketing of unhealthy products in the past, and energy drink makers should be held to the same standard. Just as laws now require warning labels on cigarettes and alcohol, energy drinks should have clear warnings about their potential dangers.
Schools should also play a role in educating students about the risks of energy drinks. Many students don’t realize that excessive caffeine can lead to addiction and even increased stress.
The debate over energy drinks should not be dependent on what a student thinks is right or wrong. It’s about protecting young people from a product that puts their health at risk. A statewide ban on energy drinks for minors would be a smart step toward ensuring student safety. Schools should take responsibility by removing them from campuses and educating students on their risks. The long-term health of students is more important than the short-term convenience of an energy boost.
