Do Energy Drinks Contribute to Hyperactivity and Inattention?

Consumption of energy drinks was independently associated with risk for these behaviors among middle school students.

The consumption of sweetened beverages, including energy drinks (e.g., Monster, Red Bull, 5-Hour Energy) has increased among adolescents. Preliminary studies suggest an association between consumption of sweetened beverages and hyperactivity/inattention.

In a community-based study at 12 urban middle schools, students completed an online health behavior survey in 2011. Answers to a standardized behavioral questionnaire were used to determine risk for hyperactivity/inattention. The study sample included 1649 students (average age, 12.4 years), of whom 47% were Hispanic, 38% were black, and 15% were white, and most were in low-income families.

Students in the normal range for hyperactivity/inattention behaviors consumed significantly fewer sweet…

Reviewing Author

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics