Energy Drink Consumption, Caffeine Intake, and Body Image in the Age of Social Media: A Narrative Review with Hungarian Implications
Abstract
Introduction: Lifestyle and dietary habits established during adolescence and young adulthood play a crucial role in shaping health outcomes. The consumption of energy drinks and other caffeinated beverages has been increasing globally, particularly among young people, while social media-driven body image ideals exert significant influence on self-perception and health-related behaviours.
Methodology: This study is based on a narrative literature review drawing on a systematic search conducted in the PubMed database. A total of seven systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in 2025 were included. The analysis focuses on the health, psychological, and socio-cultural aspects of caffeine and energy drink consumption.
Results: The reviewed evidence indicates that excessive energy drink consumption is associated with cardiovascular alterations, sleep disturbances, psychological symptoms, and potential drug interactions. Associations between caffeine intake and mental health outcomes, including psychological disorders and suicidal ideation, have also been identified. Social media-driven idealized body images may contribute to the adoption of unsustainable lifestyle strategies, where stimulant use becomes a tool for performance and appearance optimization.
Conclusions: Energy drink consumption should not be interpreted solely as a nutritional issue but rather as a complex indicator of a performance-oriented and media-driven lifestyle. Health education, nutritional literacy, and media awareness are essential to mitigate risks. An interdisciplinary approach may support the development of sustainable and health-conscious behavioural patterns among young people.
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