Ruby, member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group, writes about the significant risks of vapes and energy drinks to young people. The adult driven industry has successfully marketed products to children and young people to the extent that so many are exposed to toxic chemicals that can not only seriously affect the mental and physical wellbeing of many children and young people but can also financially impact them and their families. Both e-cigarettes and energy drinks are expensive.
Today’s young people have been introduced to energy drinks and vapes, and while small usage isn’t shown to cause huge health risks so far, overconsumption can cause serious danger, especially for young people.
If you drink too much of an energy drink it can put pressure on your heart and according to BBC News there are links ‘to more risks than previously found, such as anxiety, stress and suicidal thoughts’.
The law says it’s illegal for retailers to sell to under 16’s and should ask for their ID. Yet some people as young as 12 years old are purchasing or they’re being purchased for them by an adult or older teenagers. This law is to protect growing bodies, but young people might not be aware of these dangers. So stay safe and make sure to know what you put in your body and how it affects you.
According to NHS England in 2024, nearly 1-in-10 11-15 year olds vape frequently. Years ago vapes were not the popular ‘cool’ thing that they’re considered to be today, they were designed to replace cigarettes and were considered less dangerous. This may have been a good intention at first, but now we know more and child-aimed packaging conceals a pool of unknown chemicals despite not enough evidence to prove any idea of how it affects your body over time. Some vapes are sold by people that do not need to pass any safety regulations as they’re not sold in a shop. Be aware of the risks you’re taking. Vapes are just as addictive as cigarettes but disguised as a better option.
Stay safe and be aware!
Ruby
Not just elected members
Did you know that Somerset Youth Parliament isn’t just it’s elected members? Any young person in Somerset aged 10-25 years can become a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group.
For more information about becoming a member of the Somerset Youth Parliament Advisory Group and to join, visit our Join Us page.
