Energy drinks have become a common part of many high school students’ daily routines. Whether it’s to stay awake during early classes, push through a sports practice, or get through a long study session, teens are turning to caffeinated beverages for a quick energy boost.
Senior Reagan Howe balances a packed schedule as an AP honors student, a member of National Honors Society, and a dancer on the school’s dance team. On top of her school responsibilities, she spends several afternoons at a local dance studio to continue her training. With such a demanding routine, it is no surprise she often needs an extra boost to keep up.
“I don’t have an energy drink everyday but at least every other day, maybe more than once,” said Howe.
Like many teens juggling academics and extracurriculars, she turns to energy drinks as a quick fix for the exhaustion that comes with a busy lifestyle.
Senior Brynn Stevens is also always on the go. Between choir, being in the school musical, and working at a local coffee shop, her schedule is packed. She is always moving, talking and full of so much energy.
“Working in a coffee shop that provides options of energy drinks has had a major impact on the amount of caffeine I consume. I would say I drink one almost every day,” said Stevens.
This habit is common among busy young teens, but regularly drinking energy drinks can lead to issues like anxiety, poor sleep and heart problems.
Energy drinks aren’t just about caffeine, they’ve become a trend. With bright colors, fun flavors, and eye-catching packaging, they’re marketed to grab attention, especially from teens.
For many teens, grabbing an energy drink isn’t just about staying awake, it’s about picking a favorite brand that fits their aesthetic.
There are many popular energy drinks including RedBull, Celsius, Alani Nu and many more. Each brand offers its own unique benefits and appeals to different lifestyles and preferences.
“The new pink RedBull or the Pink Slush Alani would be my favorite energy drinks. I guess I just love pink,” said Howe.
For Howe, energy drinks are more than just a caffeine fix, they’re something she genuinely enjoys. The flavor, the look of the can, even the color all play a part in why she keeps going back to her favorites. It’s a small moment of joy in the middle of a hectic day.
Energy drinks have clearly become a part of teen culture, offering both convenience and a sense of enjoyment during busy days. But as their popularity continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding what’s in them and how they affect the body.
For students constantly on the go, finding healthier ways to stay energized could be just as rewarding in the long run.
