The Health Risks of Energy Drinks: Impact on Teenagers and Adults

A 17-year-old in New Zealand reported consuming 2 liters of energy drinks daily for six months, leading to heart palpitations, anxiety, and sleep deprivation, according to a personal account published in the NZ Herald. The individual, identified only as “Alex,” described the habit as a “crutch” to stay alert during schoolwork, with symptoms worsening until hospitalization. A separate study by a University of Auckland professor, cited in a Stuff article, found that 34% of teenagers in the country regularly consume energy drinks, often exceeding recommended caffeine limits.

The professor, Dr. Emily Carter, analyzed data from 1,200 students and linked frequent energy drink use to elevated heart rates and disrupted sleep cycles. “Caffeine intake among teens is often unmonitored,” Carter said, noting that many adolescents consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily—double the recommended maximum for their age group. The study, published in a peer-reviewed journal, also found that 68% of participants reported headaches or irritability after consumption.

Health officials in New Zealand have not issued formal warnings about the trend, but the Ministry of Health cited the study in a recent advisory urging parents to monitor children’s beverage choices. “Energy drinks are not regulated as dietary supplements, yet their ingredients can have significant physiological effects,” a ministry spokesperson said. The NZ Herald account described Alex’s doctor attributing the health issues to “chronic caffeine toxicity,” with recovery requiring gradual reduction of intake over several weeks.

Dr. Carter’s research also highlighted disparities in consumption patterns, with 42% of low-income students reporting daily energy drink use compared to 28% in higher-income groups. The study suggested that affordability and marketing tactics targeting young consumers may contribute to the trend. A 2023 survey by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority found that 72% of energy drink advertisements on social media featured athletes or influencers, potentially normalizing the habit among adolescents.

The NZ Herald article noted that Alex’s case has sparked discussions in school boards about implementing policies to restrict energy drink sales near campuses. Meanwhile, Dr. Carter’s team is collaborating with policymakers to draft guidelines for labeling caffeine content and limiting promotional activities. “The goal is to provide clearer information without stigmatizing responsible use,” Carter said. Health advocates emphasized that while energy drinks are not inherently harmful, their cumulative effects—especially when combined with other caffeinated products—warrant closer scrutiny.

As of now, no legislation has been proposed to address the issue, and the Ministry of Health has not commented on potential regulatory changes. The professor’s study remains under review by the New Zealand Medical Journal, with a decision expected by December 2023.