Staying Awake: Energy Drinks Are Not Your Friend
College is exhausting. Students must learn to balance the challenges of school, work, a social life and other activities.
By the time students reach week eight of the semester, burnout can hit quickly. With exhaustion growing heavy on the eyelids and the desperation mounting to carry on until the clock strikes 11:59 p.m., students frequently turn to quick options for boosting their energy. This is where energy drinks come into the equation, but are energy drinks a healthy way to improve energy levels?
According to Go Big Energy, in 1962, energy drinks were invented in Japan and marketed to factory workers and truck drivers, who were known for working long hours. Over the years, the demand for energy drinks increased, and brands such as Red Bull and Monster have since become popular on college campuses.
To this day, energy drinks continue to be a college student’s best friend, as an academic study titled “A Survey of Energy Drink Consumption Patterns Among College Students” found that 51% of college students drink more than one energy drink every month.
Although these beverages are popular with students, health professionals question whether or not consuming them is healthy.
Energy drinks contain a high amount of caffeine, which can lead to several heart problems when taken in excess. These drinks also contain an ingredient called taurine, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure when combined with caffeine, according to UC Davis Health.
Sugar is another main ingredient in these beverages, one that can contribute to the development of heart disease, diabetes and obesity. UC Davis Health also pointed out that energy drinks contain excessive amounts of B vitamins and artificial sweeteners. Students who do not get necessary rest can further damage their bodies by consuming these artificial ingredients on a weekly basis.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, drinking energy drinks on a regular basis can put a person at risk for anxiety, depression, diarrhea, hallucinations, headaches, mood swings, nausea, rapid heart rate, stroke, tooth decay and weight gain.
Some of these symptoms, like depression and anxiety, are already frequently experienced by college students. This fact may leave students looking for better alternatives.
According to the UC Davis Health, students can naturally boost their energy levels by eating healthy foods, staying hydrated and getting enough sleep. Harvard University Health recommends at least seven hours of sleep each night for adults.
You can enjoy a nice Monster or Red Bull every now and then for the taste or the help for concentrating while you cram for an exam the next day. Energy drinks do work and can help with focus when necessary; however, they should be a last resort. Stick to water, coffee or tea if you need something to awaken your mind.
Energy drinks, if turned into an unhealthy routine, can create a lot of health problems. Instead, students should go to God when they don’t think they have enough strength to battle the challenges of life. Remember Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
Morineau is an opinion writer for the Liberty Champion.