In recent years, health professionals have reported a steady rise in caffeine related incidents among children and adolescents.
Most cases involved unintentional consumption, suggesting limited awareness of caffeine levels.
A growing market
This rise in youth exposure is occurring alongside rapid market expansion.
More than 500 energy drink products are currently sold in the United States, generating annual sales above 25 billion dollars, according to Harvard Health Publishing.
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Consumption is highest among teenagers and young adults, where energy drinks are often used to combat fatigue, enhance performance, or support weight loss.
Public health experts note that the accessibility and marketing of these products make them particularly visible in schools, sports environments, and social settings frequented by younger consumers.
What is inside the energy drinks?
Independent testing by Consumer Reports highlights the variability of energy drinks.
In an analysis of 27 products, caffeine content ranged from very low levels to amounts that approach or exceed recommended daily limits when multiple servings are consumed.
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Some containers include more than one serving, increasing the risk of cumulative intake over a short period.
Many products also contain significant amounts of sugar.
Health researchers warn that combining sugar with high caffeine doses can produce brief stimulation followed by fatigue, encouraging repeated consumption.
Other ingredients are often advertised as energy enhancing, but evidence does not support an effect without caffeine.
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The health implications
Regulatory guidance provides a clearer endpoint.
The Food and Drug Administration considers up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day acceptable for healthy adults, while recommending far lower limits for adolescents.
Energy drinks can elevate blood pressure and disrupt heart rhythm for hours after use.
Case reports have linked heavy consumption, especially when combined with alcohol or intense exercise, to cardiac arrest.
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The evidence converges on a delayed conclusion.
Occasional use may be tolerated by healthy adults, but regular intake carries documented risks, particularly for young people and individuals with heart conditions.
Kilder: Harvard Health Publishing, Consumer Reports, and The Food and Drug Administration.
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