Scientists from Teesside University and Newcastle University in the UK found that children and teenagers’ use of energy drinks could lead them to develop anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviour, sleep problems, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and heart disease. Research results published In the Journal of Public Health.
The new study (meta-analysis) by British scientists is based on the results of 57 previous studies conducted by research teams from different countries. In total, more than 1.2 million young people aged 9 to 21 took part in experiments and observations. Scientists collected information about the subjects’ health status and evaluated the amount of energy drinks consumed per day.
Taken together, the results showed that frequent consumption of energy drinks (every day or several times a week) is associated with a higher risk of deterioration in physical health (the appearance of excess weight, the development of heart disease and hypertension). Teens who drink energy drinks are more likely to experience mental health problems and experience anxiety, depression or eating disorders.
They were also more likely to show signs of self-destructive behavior than volunteers who did not drink such drinks. Some of the studies included in the analysis found that energy drink addicts had a higher risk of developing other bad habits, such as smoking, vaping and alcohol consumption. Another dangerous consequence of frequent consumption of tonic drinks was the increased likelihood of tooth decay.
The truth is that many energy drinks contain too much sugar and caffeine. Beverages such as Red Bull and Monster can contain up to 150 mg of this psychoactive substance. A 250 ml cup of coffee contains approximately 90 mg. Long-term excess of the recommended intake of caffeine (according to the recommendations of the World Health Organization – 400 mg for an adult) can negatively affect the psyche and cardiovascular system.
One box of tonic contains up to 21 teaspoons of sugar, which causes children who drink it to gain weight and deteriorate their dental health.
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