Students warned to resist unhealthy buzz during exams

Leading health experts are urging students to avoid using energy drinks to fuel study sessions and exams as some products deliver 21 teaspoons of sugar and as much caffeine as two-and-a-half espresso shots.

The 13 health and community organisations behind Rethink Sugary Drink warn that energy drinks can leave students struggling to concentrate when they need to most and regular consumption can lead to serious health problems in the long term.

Cancer Council Australia’s Public Health Committee Chair Craig Sinclair said: “The high levels of caffeine and sugar in energy drinks cause energy and blood sugar levels to spike, but after about an hour the caffeine and sugar in your body starts to wear off and you’ll feel tired and lethargic. So in the middle of your exam or study session, your energy levels are likely to crash making it difficult to focus.

“If consumed regularly the high sugar content in energy drinks can lead to weight gain and obesity, increasing your risk of heart and kidney disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and some cancers.”

Australian Dental Association’s Oral Health Committee Chair, Dr Peter Alldritt, said energy drinks are also a major contributing factor to tooth decay and tooth erosion. ADA is a partner of Rethink Sugary Drinks.