Concerns Rise as People Opt for Energy Drinks Over Food
The growing trend of individuals consuming excessive amounts of energy drinks instead of regular meals is raising alarm bells, particularly due to its association with an increase in eating disorders. These beverages are often marketed as “healthy” and are sometimes even sold in gyms. However, their low-calorie content and high caffeine levels can suppress appetite, making them prone to misuse by individuals experiencing disordered eating.
Referrals to eating disorder services went from 19,244 in 2018-19 to 29,165 in 2022-23 and NHS screening found that 77.5 per cent of women aged 17 to 19 may have some form of eating problem, while 20.8 per cent had a confirmed eating disorder.
Claire Murdoch, NHS England’s national director for mental health, has expressed her concern. She draws parallels to the 1990s trend when people substituted large quantities of caffeinated Diet Coke for proper meals. Ms. Murdoch also criticises drink manufacturers for promoting energy drinks as a quick fix for weight loss among young people.
As the government prepares to ban the sale of these beverages to individuals under 18, mental health specialists emphasise the importance of recognizing the serious health risks associated with replacing balanced meals with energy drinks, especially for vulnerable populations.
Tom Quinn, Director of External Affairs for eating disorder charity Beat commented: 'People with eating disorders often try and restrict the amount of food they consume by drinking excessive amounts of caffeinated drinks such as coffee or energy drinks instead of balanced meals.
'The first symptoms of eating disorders are often behavioural or psychological rather than physical — for example, drinking lots of energy drinks before noticeable weight loss occurs.'
Recovering from eating disorders is challenging without professional assistance. Therefore, it is crucial that individuals seek professional help and support promptly. The earlier an individual receives treatment for an eating disorder, the higher the likelihood of achieving recovery.
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