How to Educate Kids About Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are hugely popular among school-age kids and teens -- and they're readily available. With four to five times the caffeine in soda, and blends incorporating many other strong stimulants, the drinks can cause seizures, heart palpitations, strokes and sudden death. Overdose is more likely among children, who often lack the maturity to use them in moderation. Energy drinks have also been associated with mood and behavioral disorders. With patience, understanding and arming yourself with some facts, you can help the kids in your life understand the dangers of these alluring drinks.

Instructions

• 1

  Decide on a time to talk when you'll be able to approach the topic with a calm and respectful demeanor, especially if you have energy drink enthusiasts on your hands. The discussion should be at a time when you are in a good mood and are free from any great stressors. For parents, a ride in the car on the way to a fun outing might be a good choice. Teachers and youth counselors could consider incorporating the discussion as a group session during class or youth group. Coaches might address the topic at the final practice before a big game.

• 2

  Many kids use energy drinks to aid athletic performance.

  Open the topic with an obvious willingness to discuss both sides of the issue. Listen to children's perspectives if they desire to share them. Many kids use energy drinks for legitimate reasons, such as to increase athletic performance or to gain greater study endurance. Validate these desires, then point out concerns regarding the use of energy drinks to meet legitimate needs. Emphasize your concerns are health related, and cite potentially deadly side effects as well as the possibility of sudden death.

• 3

  Present children with facts and statistics relevant to their lives. One common side effect of high caffeine consumption is diarrhea -- certainly not a symptom any teen would like to experience at school. Also, caffeine is a diuretic, which means it increases the natural rate at which the body loses water, possibly causing dehydration. A common side effect of dehydration is low energy. This process can cause an unhealthy cycle of energy-drink dependence and could ultimately reduce athletic performance.

• 4

  Orange juice is an alternative to energy drinks.

  Discuss alternatives, such as having an iced tea to refresh before a game. There are many flavored waters with added vitamins, minerals and electrolytes on the market. Fruit smoothies made with protein powder and orange juice are another alternative. Also, emphasize the importance of getting enough rest and adequate nutrition for optimal energy.