Problem of "Energy Drinks"

By Reza Ganjavi

We all have a lot of energy, naturally, that is our birthright, part of the package, but we waste it through various means. Isn't it more intelligent to find out how we waste energy than to try to get more energy through the uptake of drugs and stimulants like the latest fashion among youngsters: "Energy Drink"? Mind you, these drinks are very profitable: caffeine and sugar are cheap. And they're addictive (both sugar and caffeine are addictive -- according to my personal experience and medical research - but don't believe me - try it. Take it regularly and then don't and see if you feel the loss on a physiological level).

Anyway, back to the topic, Energy Drinks have been out for a few years now. In a way, they're similar to the traditional Pepsi and Coke type of caffeinated sugary drinks - or the caffeinated sugar-free - or the caffeine and sugar-free for those who like to drink colored water.

Have you observed how much energy little kids have? Tremendous. But many lose it as they get older because of stupid ways of living -- like unhealthy food, doing work that you hate doing, or, conflict. Conflict, with yourself or others is the biggest wastage of energy. Then understanding the nature of conflict and ending it is much more interesting and essential than finding a temporary way of getting more energy.

"Young people are taking caffeine to stay awake, or perhaps to get high, and many of them are ending up in the emergency department. Caffeine is a drug and should be treated with caution, as any drug is." Dr. Danielle McCarthy, Northwestern University.

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"The popularity of energy drinks among teenagers in the United States has grown by 80% in the last year and is worth $3.4 billion annually. While energy drinks are marketed as a way to boost energy and increase alertness, they are often loaded with caffeine and sugar, which can lead to unhealthy jolt-and-crash cycles. Additionally, some teenagers use energy drinks to get a buzz, which can be dangerous and result in poison-center calls from young people getting sick from too much caffeine. The article raises concerns about the safety of these drinks, particularly when mixed with alcohol, and limited research on their potential risks. While energy drink companies stress that their products are safe, experts are calling for more studies to be conducted. While energy drinks are popular among teenagers, they come with health risks that should be taken seriously."