Researchers from the University of Bergen and the University of Oslo in Norway examined how the regular intake of energy drinks relates to sleep quality. The study focused on adults who consume about two to three cans each week and found associations with longer times to fall asleep and more frequent awakenings at night. The findings were published in BMJ Open.
The analysis included data from 53,266 Norwegian students aged 18 to 23. Participants reported how often they drank energy drinks, and researchers gathered information on their sleep patterns, difficulty falling asleep, the frequency of nighttime awakenings, and daytime health status. The large sample helps illuminate potential sleep-related consequences tied to energy drink consumption in young adults.
Among men who consumed two to three energy drinks weekly, the odds of going to bed after midnight were 35 percent higher, the likelihood of sleeping fewer than six hours increased by 52 percent, and the chance of waking during the night rose by 60 percent compared with those who rarely or never drank such beverages. These associations persisted after accounting for multiple lifestyle and health factors common in student populations (BMJ Open).
In women, regular energy drink consumption was linked to a 20 percent higher probability of staying up past midnight, a 58 percent higher risk of sleeping less than six hours, and a 24 percent greater likelihood of waking during the night. The pattern mirrors the male findings, underscoring a potential sex-specific impact on sleep delaying and disruption with frequent caffeine and sugar intake in energy drinks (BMJ Open).
The researchers cautioned that the study does not prove that energy drinks cause insomnia or other sleep problems. Nevertheless, the drinks often contain substantial amounts of sugar and caffeine, and the stimulating effects of these substances can negatively influence sleep quality and overall daytime functioning. The results add to the growing body of evidence that consistent nighttime rest is closely tied to caffeine exposure and high sugar consumption, particularly among young adults navigating demanding academic schedules (BMJ Open).
Experts note that several factors influence sleep health, including circadian rhythm, stress, physical activity, and dietary choices. While energy drinks might offer short-term alertness, their regular use can disrupt sleep architecture, shorten total sleep time, and impair restfulness. Health professionals often recommend limiting caffeine intake, avoiding caffeinated beverages late in the day, and prioritizing sleep hygiene practices such as regular bedtimes, a cool sleeping environment, and wind-down routines to promote more restorative sleep. Ongoing research continues to explore how different caffeine sources and sugar load interact with sleep stages and daytime alertness, aiming to guide safer consumption patterns for youth and university students (BMJ Open).
In the broader context, ample sleep remains a recognized contributor to academic performance, mood stability, and physical health. While energy drinks might seem like a quick fix for fatigue, their potential impact on sleep suggests a careful balance, especially for students balancing coursework, social life, and responsibilities. Public health messages continue to emphasize moderation and informed choices when it comes to caffeine-rich beverages, with attention to individual tolerance and sleep needs. The evolving evidence base supports strategies that protect sleep quality while allowing individuals to manage energy levels through healthier lifestyle habits (BMJ Open).