Energy drinks- sweet drinks containing caffeine and often herbal supplements- have been drawing attention recently over their lack of nutritional value and effects on children and adolescents. In May, 2011, the American Academy of Pediatrics published a report discouraging the consumption of energy drinks by children and adolescents.

What Are Energy Drinks?

Energy drinks are non-alcoholic beverages that are specifically marketed for an energizing effect on the body. Energy drinks have no therapeutic benefit, and many of their ingredients are understudied and often not regulated. The unknown pharmacology of ingredients included in these drinks, combined with reports of caffeine toxicity, raises concern for potentially serious adverse effects in association with energy drink use.

Effects of Caffeine in Children and Adolescents

Caffeine not only interferes with sleep, it can cause anxiety and stomach upset, raise heartbeats, and increases the risk of dehydration. There has been great concern about what caffeine can do over time or in high doses to a young, growing body that's not fully mature.

Although healthy people can tolerate caffeine in moderation, heavy caffeine consumption has been associated with serious consequences, and in rare cases, seizures, stroke, and sudden death.

In accordance with promoting health and safety within our school district, North Clarion County School District strongly urges its students not to consume energy drinks before school or during school hours.

Please contact the school nurse or office should you have any questions or concerns.

For more information on the effects of Energy Drink consumption in children and adolescents visit the American Academy of Pediatrics Website @ https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/aap-press-room-media-center/Pages/Energy-Drinks.aspx