Energy drinks have become a popular fix for students dealing with long days and mounting academic pressure.
“If it weren’t for [energy drinks], I wouldn’t be able to function throughout the school day,” said junior Anthony Dominguez. While the caffeine can offer a quick boost, the high sugar content and other additives raise concerns about their safety for teenagers. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against adolescents consuming energy drinks, citing risks such as increased heart rate, anxiety, and dependency. Energy drink dependence is a major concern of cardiologists due to its affects on a healthy heart. Allowing their sale in our cafeteria would not only normalize unhealthy habits, but also contradict the school’s role in promoting student health.
Some students believe it should be up to individuals to decide what they consume. Some people feel energy drinks are “okay for the cafeteria to offer them because it is ultimately the kids’ decision to buy them” said junior Brandon Valenzuela. With this being said, our school already promotes the health of its students, providing energy drinks in this setting may send mixed messages about the importance of health and ignores the cafeteria’s responsibility to guide students toward better choices.
While students may rely on caffeine to stay focused, there are healthier ways to meet those needs. Alternatives like flavored water or natural juices provide energy without the same risks. Even coffee offers the benefit of caffeine without all the unnatural ingredients and high-sugar contents that are found in energy drinks. Saint Viator should focus on promoting an environment that encourages wellness and not compromise it for convenience or profit. By keeping energy drinks off the menu, the cafeteria can support both the immediate and long-term health of its students. Sometimes, making the best choice means taking the unhealthy ones off the table entirely.