Editor’s note: This piece by Ethan Lohnes won first place in the Health and Science Journalism Workshop for high school students. It has parts for both print and social media.

Contextual Statement

The target audience for this article are all teenagers, especially those who regularly drink energy drinks. Most teenagers don’t know the full effects of energy drinks on their bodies and minds. This article is designed to appeal to teenagers, where they seek instant information and tips.

Is Energy Worth It?

Teenagers all around the world are consuming energy drinks occasionally or daily. Most teens don’t know exactly what they’re putting into their bodies and the effects derived from these sugar and caffeine filled drinks.

Why Do Teens Consume Energy Drinks?

A study by the NIH and European Food Safety Authority says 30% of adolescents in the US and 70% of adolescents in Europe regularly consume energy drinks. Energy drinks are popular amongst teens because of the addictive flavors, colorful packaging, and marketing to teens says UCLA Health. Also, “students face the challenges of waking up early for school and keeping their energy up throughout the day” (UCLA Health).

The Effects of Energy Drinks

Energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine, sugar, and other additives such as guarana, taurine, and L-carnitine according to the CDC. These substances can increase alertness and attention, although they can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. Also, there is potential for heart palpitations after consuming energy drinks.

The Risks of Energy Drinks

According to the CDC, “In 2011, 1,499 adolescents aged 12-17 years went to the emergency room for an energy-drink-related emergency.” The dangers of energy drinks include dehydration, heart complications, anxiety, and insomnia. Energy drinks can also lead to withdrawal symptoms such as headache or depressed mood according to UCLA Health which shows energy drinks are incredibly addicting. Overconsumption of energy drinks can even lead to death because of the high caffeine contents.

Alternatives to Energy Drinks

Instead of drinking energy drinks, there are alternatives to feel more awake and alert. Water is the best alternative considering dehydration can make you feel lethargic according to Healthy for Life Meals. Other alternatives are coffee, tea, and smoothies. All these beverages are healthier than energy drinks, making your overall lifestyle healthier and happier.

Social Media Post/Script

Do you avidly consume energy drinks? They could be destroying your overall health, here’s why. Energy drinks contain high amounts of caffeine, sugar, and other alertness additives. This can lead to increased blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. The risks of energy drinks include dehydration, heart complications, anxiety, and insomnia. Healthy alternatives are water, coffee, tea, and smoothies.