Celsius, Alani, Bloom energy drinks go mainstream
Food Dive
The Caffeine-Crazed Rise of Energy Drinks
MAY 28, 2026
“Caffeine stunts growth.”
Everyone has heard this phrase at least once, from either worried parents or just in casual conversation. Although caffeine does not directly stop growth, and this is scientifically misleading, caffeine harms everyone who indulges more than what’s safe.
The daily recommended intake of caffeine for children aged 13 to 18 is 100 milligrams or less. Comparing that to the amount of caffeine in a single energy drink, like Celsius, Alani, or Monster, is 200, 200, and 160 mg, respectively, not including the added sugar in each drink. This can be dangerous for anyone who indulges in energy drinks from time to time, but popular culture has spread its influence so much that students now drink them to replace water.
Additionally, exam season dawned upon every student, whether it be AP exams, finals, or NJGPAs and NJSLAs. It’s a common trend among teens to procrastinate on schoolwork and pull ‘all-nighters,’ staying up far too late or not sleeping at all, just to study.
Junior Kailynn DuRose said, “I have definitely pulled my fair share of all-nighters this year between studying for APs and just keeping it with regular classwork, and it has taken a toll on my regular sleep schedule.”
To stay up late, students increase caffeine intake: whether it be from matcha, coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, or even caffeinated gum, the average intake of caffeine in teens has increased significantly during exam season. The constant consumption of caffeine deprives students of the sleep they so desperately need during adolescence.
Junior Joseph Samaan said, “I used to drink almost two to three energy drinks a day, but I soon realized that my body truly does not even need it if I just sleep at a regular time.”
Though it’s very important to study, it is much better for a student’s physical and mental health if they start earlier rather than trying to cram everything into a brain too drained to learn. Students must also be aware of their own limits and their personal responsibility as consumers, regardless of what popular culture tells them to drink or do.
