Caffeine has come a long way since its discovery. From tea brewed in Asia to the discovery of coffee (Coffea arabica) in Ethiopia by the shepherd Kaldi, caffeine has energized people for centuries—especially young people. But how much caffeine are Prep students consuming, and why?
Caffeine Consumption: The Numbers According to a recent survey of 151 Prep students:
- 55.3% consume 0-50 mg of caffeine daily.
- 11.3% consume 50-100 mg.
- 7.3% consume 200 mg.
- 5.3% consume 300 mg.
- 3.3% consume 400 mg.
Alarmingly, 17.5% exceed the FDA’s recommended daily limit of 400 mg. When asked if they believe their caffeine consumption is normal, a majority (73.7%) said yes, while 21% said no. While students may not experience immediate side effects, high caffeine intake can lead to insomnia, elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations, and reduced calcium absorption, which may contribute to osteoporosis. Severe addiction can also develop over time.
Why Are Students Consuming Caffeine?
The top reasons for caffeine consumption at Prep are:
- Academics: 71% of students reported using caffeine to help with studying.
- Athletics: 36% use caffeine in the form of pre-workout supplements.
- Extracurriculars: 22.4% use caffeine to keep up with their commitments.
One student candidly explained his caffeine use, saying he didn’t want to be “cooked” in one of his classes. However, when asked if caffeine boosts academic performance, over half of the students surveyed said no. This highlights a concerning trend: students are sacrificing sleep for academic, athletic, and extracurricular success, often with limited benefits.
Caffeine and Marketing Ethics:
Another reason students reach for caffeine is the taste of energy drinks. This raises an important question: Is it ethical for energy drink companies to associate their products with extreme sports like downhill mountain biking, skiing, and skydiving to attract young consumers? The appeal of such high-adrenaline activities can be enticing, but it may encourage risky consumption habits.
The Long-Term Impact Prep students face immense pressure from academics, athletics, and extracurriculars, making caffeine a convenient solution for late nights and packed schedules. However, while caffeine may offer short-term benefits, overconsumption can lead to long-term health issues.
So, if you find yourself reaching for a Celsius or another energy drink, remember: Drink responsibly. Prioritize your health, and don’t let caffeine replace good sleep habits. Your future self will thank you.
