Energy drinks: What you need to know

Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and sugar (in non-diet varieties), which can lead to health problems including: 

• Feeling sick, being sick, stomach aches and diarrhoea 

• Anxiety, panic attacks, high heart rate or having an irregular heartbeat 

• Headaches and lack of concentration 

• Affecting mood – they may make someone feel happy for a while, which can soon be followed by sadness 

• Not being able to get enough sleep (insomnia) 

• Tooth decay 

• Increase in weight 

• Becoming dependent on the caffeine or other substances 

• Very occasionally, death. This has happened to young people with heart conditions, some of which can be undetected, and those who have had too much caffeine. 

It is advised that energy drinks are not purchased by children under 16 in the UK due to their high sugar and caffeine content. Most retailers won’t sell high caffeine drinks to people under 16. 

Energy drinks that are high in caffeine have to be labelled ‘high caffeine’ and state that they are not suitable for young people. 

Read our article written for kids about energy drinks here.

If your child is tired often, here are some alternatives to energy drinks or caffeine: 

• Getting enough sleep is important. Take a look at our advice on getting to sleep for more information if your child is struggling. 

• Eat a balanced diet- eating healthy, regular meals will give your child energy. 

• Exercise – if your child feels like they have no energy, a quick HIIT workout, walk or run can make a big difference. Setting an alarm 30 minutes earlier can also give them a boost in the morning 

• Water – lack of water can make anyone feel tired and low in energy, so make sure your child drinks at least two litres of water a day 

• If all of the above won’t help, try a cold shower in the morning. 

 If your child seems to be tired all of the time and/or you’re concerned about their energy, speak to a health professional such as a GP.