In recent years energy drinks have become increasingly popular in high schools. Common brands include Red Bull, Monster, and Celsius. These are advertised as products meant to increase energy, focus, and alertness. Many high school students use energy drinks to stay awake during classes or to perform better in sports.
Many notice a rise in popularity in energy drinks during exams, early classes, or athletic events. Most companies often advertise them through social media or sport sponsorship. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health says that a typical energy drink may contain around 40 grams sugar and 160 mg or more of caffeine per serving. The Red bull website states that 8.4 fl oz can contain 80mg of caffeine.
While some say they are used for energy, others say they don’t work for that purpose and they enjoy the drink for its taste. Krisalynn Thompson, junior, said, “Red Bull is my favorite energy drink. I drink them everyday, but I drink them mostly for the taste.”
Not everyone is a fan of energy drinks, freshmen Isaiah Wirth said, “I don’t like energy drinks because I don’t like the caffeine in them and they aren’t very good for you.”
Energy drinks are seen as the younger generation’s alternative to coffee or soda; however, they are not just popular among teenagers. Coach McLaughlin is a habitual drinker of energy drinks. “I drink five or more monster energy drinks a day. I definitely only drink them for the taste and my favorite is ultra black,” said McLaughlin.
