Doctors warn about the risks energy drinks pose to kids. What families need to know

Doctors are warning about the potential risks energy drinks pose to children, citing high levels of caffeine that can lead to serious health issues such as abnormal heartbeats, increased heart rate, sleep disturbances, dehydration, agitation, high blood pressure, and seizures. A coalition of doctors has highlighted these risks in response to a sponsorship deal between Monster Energy and the Big 12 Conference college athletic organization, urging the NCAA to review energy drink marketing to youths.

According to a recent survey, 23% of 12th graders, 20% of 10th graders, and 18% of eighth graders reported consuming energy drinks daily. Medical groups, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, recommend that children and teens avoid energy drinks altogether.

Brief written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.