Slovenia Health Institute Warns Energy Drinks Harm Youth Health

Slovenia's National Institute of Public Health (NIJZ) is sounding the alarm about the widespread consumption of energy drinks among young people, debunking common misconceptions about their supposed benefits.

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Energy drinks are not intended for hydration, but due to caffeine, they can even increase dehydration and further burden the heart.

The institute emphasizes that these beverages are far from innocent thirst-quenchers. Instead, they are loaded with caffeine and other stimulants that can pose serious health risks to adolescents. A prevalent myth among young athletes, for instance, is that energy drinks serve as sports beverages. However, NIJZ clarifies that these drinks are not designed for hydration and can even exacerbate dehydration while placing additional strain on the heart.

Even sugar-free energy drinks are a cause for concern, as they still contain high amounts of caffeine and stimulants. These can lead to restlessness, heart palpitations, sleep disturbances, and concentration problems in young individuals. While some students turn to energy drinks for a temporary boost in alertness during study sessions, the NIJZ warns that this effect is short-lived, often followed by an energy crash, reduced concentration, and fatigue. They stress that caffeine cannot compensate for a lack of sleep.

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Even sugar-free energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine and other stimulants. In young people, they can cause restlessness, heart palpitations, sleep problems, and concentration issues.

The NIJZ also debunks the idea that young bodies can easily tolerate energy drinks. Children and adolescents are more sensitive to caffeine than adults. The institute also highlights the dangers of mixing energy drinks with alcohol. Excessive consumption can negatively impact sleep, mood, heart rate, blood pressure, and focus. The institute advocates for healthier energy sources: sufficient sleep, regular physical activity, proper hydration, a balanced diet, and good organization of rest and exertion. This message is promoted through their "Choose Your Energy" campaign, which asserts that "Real energy doesn't come from a can."

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Real energy doesn't come from a can.