Caffeinated energy drinks and effects in UK young people

Abstract

International systematic review evidence indicates an association of caffeinated energy drink use with physical symptoms and lifestyle but is unclear about associations with mental health and behavioural outcomes. The design of studies included in the reviews and the quality of the systematic reviews themselves limits the strength of the conclusions. The lack of UK research in the reviews prompted our analysis of UK population-level data. Our analysis of UK data suggests that many children in the UK consume CEDs with higher consumption reported by older children, by boys, and by those living in northern areas or in more deprived regions. Findings also suggest associations between consumption and physical, psychological, social and educational symptoms, behaviours and wellbeing. A lack of studies that measure these variables over time meant we were unable to determine whether CED consumption is the cause of associated symptoms, behaviours and wellbeing. Future research on this topic should employ longitudinal methods to examine whether CED consumption is responsible for poorer health and wellbeing. Research should also examine the influence of geographic region and deprivation on children’s caffeinated energy drink consumption. The measurement of caffeinated energy drink consumption in the future needs to be consistent across surveys, so that a clearer picture of the frequency, timing and dosage can be established. UK-wide exploration of the context and reasons for caffeinated energy drink consumption is needed and should include examining consumption of CEDs with alcohol in older children aged 16 to 17 years