NEWSBEAT REPORTER

As finals approach, energy drinks increase in sales. But are energy drinks really the way to go?

The increasing intake of energy drinks has skyrocketed, usually before major exam times. But these drinks are very unhealthy for regular students. They contain huge amounts of caffeine and sugar.

“Excess caffeine can cause elevated heart rate, can cause insomnia, it can cause dehydration because the caffeine has a diuretic effect on the body which makes you excrete more water,” said Vanessa Richard, registered dietitian with the LSU Health and Wellness Education Department.

Richard said excessive caffeine intake may cause ‘coffee jitters,’ anxiety and insomnia. These physical effects of caffeine don’t last long since caffeine doesn’t accumulate in the body. Most students consume energy drinks to stay awake and keep them alert while preparing for their exams

“Pretty much to keep me awake, I drink them a lot like if I go on a long trip and when I’m driving,” said interior design major David Belanger. “It just kinda keeps me energized.”

Some of the additional ingredients, like the herbal supplements, can cause problems for individuals on medications or if one mixes the energy drink with alcohol. Since caffeine is an upper and alcohol is a downer, they have opposite effects on the body.

“Often times the energy drink masks that drunk feeling so individuals may drink more than they intended to, or they think they can do things like drive or operate some sort of vehicle,” said Richard.

If someone is looking to stay awake, Richard said there are many alternatives to energy drinks.

“I would recommend coffee or tea or maybe just getting adequate sleep, preparing better for studies by studying ahead of time,” she said.