|
The Imperative for a Comprehensive Policy Framework to Manage Energy Drink Consumption among Adolescents and Young Adults to Prevent Cardiovascular and Metabolic Complications
|
Arman Ghorbani *   |
| Faculty of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology , Arman.ghorbani@sbmu.ac.ir |
|
|
Abstract: (93 Views) |
This increase in consumption of energy drinks by young people in Iran is mainly because of increased availability and variety, and marketing practices of such beverages. Studies on both national and local levels show an observable increase in consumption among young people, including college students, athletes, and young adults. Such a pattern is commonly observed among youth in lack of sufficient knowledge about their composition and the harmful effects that come from a high concentration of stimulant compounds. The continuation of this trend could lead to increased sympathetic nervous system activity, electrolyte imbalance, increased blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, sleep disorders, as well as metabolic issues, which will put significant stress on the healthcare system.
The policy brief at hand attempts to explore the dimensions of the problem and outline feasible policy options for tackling it. The methodology used in the process included literature research and analysis of national health surveillance and food consumption studies as well as regulation policies. It was determined that factors contributing to increased consumption include lack of appropriate product labeling, unrestricted availability to adolescents, aggressive marketing practices, and lack of consumer awareness about energy drinks. A number of possible approaches have been considered, including mandatory labeling and warnings about caffeine content, limitations on sales within schools and athletic clubs, and taxation. Overall, a combination of all these measures appears to be the best option to reduce the negative impact of energy drinks on cardiovascular and metabolic systems of young people. |
|
| Keywords: Energy Drinks, Cardiovascular Complications |
|
|
Full-Text [PDF 271 kb]
(60 Downloads)
|
Article type: Brief Policy |
Subject:
nutrition
Received: 2026/05/26 | Accepted: 2026/01/30 | Published: 2026/06/1
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| References |
|
1. WHO. Healthy diet factsheet. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2024. 2. EFSA. Scientific Opinion on the Safety of Caffeine. European Food Safety Authority; 2023. 3. Seifert SM, et al. Health Effects of Energy Drinks on Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults. Pediatrics. 2011;127(3):511-528. [ DOI:10.1542/peds.2009-3592] 4. Higgins JP, et al. Energy Beverages: Content and Safety. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2010;85(11):1033-1041. [ DOI:10.4065/mcp.2010.0381] 5. Ministry of Health and Medical Education. Iran Adolescent Health Monitoring Report; 2025 (1404). 6. National Institute of Nutrition Research. Energy Drink Consumption Report; 2024. 7. WHO. Guideline: Sugars Intake for Adults and Children. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2023.
|
|
| Send email to the article author |
|
|
|
| Add your comments about this article |
|
|
|
