It's generally not recommended for children under 18 to consume energy drinks, including Red Bull. This is because energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which can have negative effects on a developing body.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that adolescents between the ages of 12 and 18 limit their caffeine intake to less than 100 milligrams per day. Some energy drinks contain twice that amount.
Potential risks of energy drinks for 13-year-olds include:
- Increased anxiety and nervousness
- Sleep problems
- Headaches
- Dehydration
- Heart problems
- Increased risk of addiction
While some people may argue that occasional moderate consumption of energy drinks is safe, it's best to err on the side of caution and avoid them altogether.
Instead of energy drinks, encourage healthy hydration with water or low-sugar drinks.
