Monster, Rockstar, RedBull, and 5 Hour energy drinks are a few of the well known top selling drinks that claim to boost your energy. Not only can adults buy these drinks containing large doses of caffeine and other stimulants, but adolescents are not prohibited to consume these drinks. Currently, the amount of caffeine added to these drinks is not regulated by the FDA. It is acknowledged that there is no regulation on any energy drink consumed here in the US. Which poses the question, if these drinks are so harmful, why are they still being sold with no regulation?

While most energy drinks do not have as much caffeine as a Starbucks coffee, they are heavily sweetened and easy to drink. Therefore, the drinks appeal to the younger demographic and increased incidents of dangerous side effects are seen from consumption of too many energy drinks at once. The World Health Organization released a warning letter stating the dangers energy drinks pose especially since 68% of youth consume them. Adolescent consumption of caffeine has been linked to dependence, poor sleep, and possible developmental problems. Adults also use these drinks as an alternate to drinking coffee or to mix with alcoholic beverages which causes higher health risks. Consumption of large amounts of caffeine may lead to serious cardiovascular events, seizures and even death. The high sugar content can eventually wear out the insulin producing cells of the pancreas which leads to type 2 diabetes. These are only a few of the health risks that come with drinking energy drinks.

With all the problems linked to consumption of energy drinks again I ask, why are these drinks being sold with no regulation? Please join us signing our petition to help spread awareness of energy drinks not being regulated.