Monster. Red Bull. Rock Star.
Energy drinks have been a life line for high school students on a deadline since the day they have hit the shelves.
The caffeinated beverages, intended to provide mental or physical energy, have become so prevalant that many students don’t know a life without them. While other people start their days off with a bowl of cereal or cup of coffee, freshman Jonathan Jenkins starts his off with a Monster.
“They will help me get through the day while I’m at school,” Jenkins said. “It feels like I’m waking up faster and I can do things quicker. I would normally be half asleep during school. I don’t think I would be able to get through the day without them, even if they are bad for me.”
Energy drinks contain stimulants, normally caffeine. It can help students for a late night of studying or to prep for a game, but the outcome isn’t always guaranteed.
“It gives me a little boost of energy for when I have to stay up late for homework,” sophomore Marissa Schmisseur said. “Sometimes they give me energy, but sometimes they don’t. I don’t think it’s worth it.”
These uncertainties can leave many students wondering if it’s worth it to drink these, expressly if it is just for the taste of them. However many are left with a feeling of not caring about it.
“It tastes good,” sophomore Jake Moser said. “I like the way it tastes and I like the hype. I know about the health risks. People know about the risks for smoking, but they still smoke.”
In November 2012, the Food and Drug Administration released a report of adverse reactions reported to them from January 2004 through October 2012. They include dizziness, headaches, vomiting, convulsions, and in some cases, death. The FDA advises consumers to talk with their doctors before using beverages marketed as energy drinks.
These potential health risks can leave students like junior Aidan Anderson to think energy drinks aren’t that appealing. After trying a couple of Red Bulls and Monsters, Anderson just doesn’t see it helping anyone.
“I wasn’t crazy about how they tasted,” Anderson said. “It wasn’t worth it. I don’t think it’s really necessary and it’s really unhealthy.”
Whether people love or hate them, energy drinks are here to stay. According to the market research firm SymphonyIRI Group, energy drinks drew $6.9 billion in sales in a year, ending April 15, 2012.
“It’s not good long term,” freshman Omari McLuster said. “It’s fine every once and awhile. Anything for a long time is bound to have negative side effects.”
