Danger in Disguise

1329 Words3 Pages

As a busy teenager, I find my schedule filled with a variety of activities including athletics, academics, and other extra-curricular responsibilities. Although teenagers are supposed to have the opportunity to relax and enjoy their high school years, I find myself becoming overwhelmed with the stress of fulfilling all the expectations placed upon me. Living out such a hectic schedule can become tiresome, and I often find myself running low on mental and physical energy. Because we constantly have a game to play or homework to complete, teenagers often turn to energy drinks to rejuvenate their bodies; however, the popular beverage is causing controversy regarding its nutritional value and potential harm to consumers.

While there are two main perspectives about the safety of energy drinks, Sara M. Seifert believes they could have harmful effects on consumers. Seifert, who has her Bachelor of Science degree, is a co-author of the article, “Health Effects of Energy Drinks on Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults,” found in PEDIATRICS magazine. According to the results of a recent survey, Seifert concludes, “Energy drinks have no therapeutic benefit, and many ingredients are understudied and not regulated” (1). Lindsey Tanner, a journalist from The Associated Press, also bases her conclusions about the negative effects of energy drinks on a recent report concerning these controversial beverages. Since the report concluded, “Energy drinks are under-studied, overused and can be dangerous for children and teens,” doctors believe parents should regulate their children’s consumption of the product (1). Tanner’s article describes the various effects of energy drinks, and she supports her negative opinion with factual data.

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... to conclude energy drinks should be regulated because of their effects on young adults and adolescents. The author is concerned with the nutritional value of the drinks and believes their effects could be dangerous to consumers.

Tanner, Lindsey. “Pediatrics Report Details Risks from Energy Drinks.” The Associated Press.14 Feb 2011: n.p. SIRS Researcher. Web. 27 Feb 2011. In this article, the author discusses a recent report about energy drink consumption in teens. Doctors and professionals have concluded that energy drinks should be monitored similarly to tobacco, alcohol, and other prescription drugs. The article emphasizes the multiple negative effects of energy drinks, and an anecdote about a young boy who experienced the harmful result of energy drinks proves their potential dangers.

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