As energy drinks become more common in locker rooms, gas stations and across social media, more teens and young adults are reaching for high‑caffeine beverages to keep up with busy schedules. Parents and health experts say the trend is raising new concerns about long‑term habits and health risks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that up to half of adolescents now consume energy drinks, despite warnings from pediatricians that children and teens should avoid them altogether. Parents say bright packaging, sweet flavors and constant online marketing make the drinks difficult for kids to ignore.
For some families, the focus is on building healthier routines at home.
Emily Neal, a local parent, said her household emphasizes water, electrolytes and moderation over energy drinks.
“You know, we really need to look at where we’re getting those vitamins from, and it’s important to be looking at what we’re giving our kids,” Neal said.
Other parents take a more flexible approach.
Lauren Grabowski said her daughters may occasionally have an energy drink before early morning gymnastics meets, but she closely monitors how much caffeine they consume.
“Two or three Red Bulls a month, I don’t think is going to hurt them,” Grabowski said. “It’s a once‑in‑a‑while situation.”
Some experts say the conversation also needs to include parents’ own habits. Strength coach and father Tyler Travis said kids often mirror what they see at home.
“What am I doing that my kids are watching?” Travis said. “If we’re chasing energy as well — if we’re reaching for the energy drink or two to three cups of coffee every day — our kids are watching. They’re mimicking what we’re doing.”
Travis said many young athletes feel pressure to keep up with long days of school, practice and training. But he believes preparation and healthy routines should come before caffeine.
“We want athletes to live on preparation and training, so they’re confident on game day,” he said.
The American Academy of Pediatrics maintains that energy drinks have “no place” in the diets of children and teens. Parents who spoke with Erie News Now say open conversations — and setting an example at home — can make a significant difference in helping kids understand what they’re putting into their bodies.
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