Students use energy drinks during stressful school or exam periods and working people use it as a stimulant during hard days at work. They are also consumed by drivers who need to stay alert and focused at the wheel for short periods of time.

Energy drinks are also alternatives to alcoholic beverages. Young adults who go to night clubs but don’t drink alcohol can fight tiredness with energy drinks (claims Madis Uusorg, 2004 World Champion in Wife Carrying). Energy drinks are recommended in areas where people have to be able to focus and react quickly, such as motor sports.

Who should not consume energy drinks?

Energy drinks are not suitable for:

• people with heart conditions;
• people with caffeine intolerance;
• children under the age of 16;
• pregnant and breastfeeding women;
• diabetics, because they are rich in sugar and carbohydrates;
• athletes – although the mix of caffeine and sugar in the drink increases the blood sugar level sharply, it also prevents liquid absorption and recovery of the liquid lost due to sweating.

(Sources: Marili Rikk, Classification of drinks and impact on the bodies of consumers; Mari Järvelaid, Department of Public Health of the Ministry of Social Affairs)