Energy drinks are beverages that contain high amounts of caffeine, sugar, and other acidic stimulants. The consumption of energy drinks is very common worldwide, and increasing evidence suggests that these beverages have negative effects on human health. In the United States, energy drink consumption increased by 240% between 2004 and 2008. This rise is particularly evident among young adults and adolescents aged 18–34, who constitute the target market for energy drink companies.
The side effects of energy drinks include cardiovascular problems, diabetes, depression, behavioral disorders, headaches, stomach pain, anxiety, stress, and insomnia. In addition to these symptoms, they may also lead to more severe issues such as a tendency toward violence or suicide, sexual deviance, and an increased desire to consume alcohol or other addictive substances. Studies conducted abroad suggest that the rate of energy drink consumption among university students ranges between 34% and 51%.
