Vibrant cans of Celsius, Alani Nu, and Prime Energy are the latest darlings of TikTok — all pastel hues, dessert-inspired flavors, and gym-influencer vibes. Marketed as “better-for-you” alternatives, these drinks boast trendy ingredients like lion’s mane, biotin, and zero sugar, all wrapped in a glow-up aesthetic of wellness and productivity. But behind the buzz, health experts are sounding the alarm.
Despite branding that leans into fitness and focus, many of these drinks contain massive doses of caffeine, often between 160 and 300 mg per can. That’s well beyond what’s considered safe for teens, and potentially risky for anyone with heart issues, anxiety, or pregnancy. Pediatricians are reporting a surge of young patients, some as young as 7, showing up with chest pain, rapid heart rate, or sleep issues after consuming these drinks, often thinking they’re harmless, thanks to influencer promotions and sleek design.
Worse, some schools even sell them in vending machines, further normalizing high caffeine intake among youth. Experts worry the health halo created by wellness branding is masking real risks, especially when drinks combine caffeine with other stimulants like taurine or guarana.
In 2024 alone, poison control centers received over 2,600 calls involving kids and teens exposed to energy drinks. While these brands claim responsible labeling, critics say that isn’t enough, especially when packaging looks nearly identical across caffeinated and non-caffeinated lines. The takeaway? Energy drinks aren’t health drinks — and consumers, especially parents, deserve clarity.
