IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ
I wanted to take a moment to address something important that came to my attention recently. A parent contacted me about a drink called Celsius that some swimmers might use. I genuinely care about the well-being of all our athletes, and I feel it's necessary to emphasize that if any swimmer is found to be using this product, they will not be able to participate in meets or practices.
I understand there can be a lot of information about different products, and I genuinely hope that none of our swimmers are considering or recommending this drink. Please take a moment to discuss this with your swimmers, as we must prioritize their health and safety. Thank you for your understanding and support as we navigate this together.
More info all Celsius:
It’s generally not recommended for children to drink Celsius—or any energy drink, really. Here’s why:
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Why Celsius Is Not Suitable for Kids
1. Age Recommendation and Manufacturer Guidelines
Celsius’s official website explicitly states that the drink is “not recommended for … children under the age of 18” . Some authoritative sources reinforce that children—especially those under 12—should avoid energy drinks entirely .
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2. High Caffeine Content
• A standard 12 oz can of Celsius typically contains 200 mg of caffeine, and some larger versions (like the “Essential” line) reach up to 270 mg .
• By comparison, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that children under 12 should have no caffeine, and adolescents (12–18 years) should limit intake to less than 100 mg per day .
• One Reddit parent raised concerns about an 11-year-old drinking Celsius, noting that 200 mg is a “health hazard” at that age—due to the high caffeine amount .
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3. Potential Health Risks
• Caffeine effects in kids can include poor sleep, anxiety, increased heart rate, and behavior issues due to the sensitivity of developing bodies and brains .
• Energy drinks also often include stimulants like taurine and guarana, which may interact with caffeine and amplify negative effects .
• A recent study even raised preliminary concerns that taurine—common in Celsius—could potentially fuel leukemia cell growth in experimental settings .
• Besides neurological and behavioral risks, high-caffeine energy drinks have been linked to serious cardiovascular concerns, mood disturbances, and even increased likelihood of emergency department visits .
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Summary Table
| Concern |
Details |
| Manufacturer Warning |
Not recommended for children under 18 |
| Caffeine Amount |
200–270 mg per can—double or more what teens should consume |
| Health Guidelines |
AAP: No caffeine under age 12; teens limited to <100 mg/day |
| Health Risks |
Sleep issues, anxiety, heart rate, behavioral problems |
| Taurine Concerns |
Emerging research links it to cancer cell metabolism—but findings are preliminary |
Final Takeaway
Celsius is not appropriate for children or teenagers due to its high caffeine content, presence of stimulants like taurine, and manufacturer warnings against under-18 consumption. Health authorities strongly discourage any caffeine for younger kids, and even teens should keep their intake low.
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If you’re raising a child or teen looking for a safe energy boost, focusing on adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, hydration, and age-appropriate physical activity is much healthier and more sustainable than relying on caffeinated energy drinks.
