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Psychological distress can lead to risky behaviors, such as drug use, and lower educational outcomes.
A new study found that children and youth consume a lot of energy drinks containing caffeine, which causes obesity and even mental health problems. Young people in high-income countries consume more sugar and calories than necessary and, as a result, it is unlikely that they need additional energy. This, coupled with regular consumption of caffeine, is of concern, said study author Russell Viner, because there is little evidence of the potential effect of caffeine on the developing body.
In a 2014 survey of more than 5,000 children in England, 14% of 11- to 15-year-olds reported using energy drinks at least two to four times a week and 5% of all youths. The high sugar content of many of these beverages (up to 27 g of sugar per 250 ml serving) undoubtedly contributes to calorie loss and the obesity epidemic in children .
caffeine is probably the most used psychoactive drug in the world
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According to the author of the study, caffeine is probably the most used psychoactive drug in the world because it increases activity and increases attention and awareness. But caffeine also increases anxiety, reduces sleep and is linked to behavioral problems in children.
Recent studies also show that it can have effects on the developing brain. Yet, very little is known about the safety profile of caffeine. Energy drinks may contain at least 320 mg / L of caffeine and it appears that the consumption of energy drinks in children and youth is associated with anxiety, depression, sensation seeking and hyperactivity and increased inattention.
This is alarming because psychological distress can lead to risky behaviors, such as drug use, and poorer academic performance.
However, the most worrying is the effect on sleep, the author explained that a clear inverse association was established between the consumption of energy drinks containing caffeine and the duration of sleep.
"Man naturally derives energy from a good diet, a restful sleep, physical exercise and, most importantly, interaction with d & # 's; 39, other people, "he added.
He points out that many UK supermarkets have now banned the sale of energy drinks containing caffeine to those under 16 years of age. The Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health supports these restrictions, as well as an assessment of the effect of these policies on the purchasing habits of young people and their health.
The study was published in the Journal of The BMJ.
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