At Etowah, students all around are seen clutching beloved items to help them make it through the dreaded school day: air pods shoved in ears, sticks of gum peeking out from jacket pockets, and, most importantly, the drinks many believe are the ultimate energizers. Energy drinks have slowly taken over as the main energy source for tired students; although there are several different kinds, many have a strong opinion on which brand they think is top tier.
These powerful refreshments, though some can serve additional purposes, give the consumer an extra energy boost to help them continue throughout the day, fatiguing activities included. Various flavors only add to the drink’s appeal, as buyers grow attached to liquid’s addicting, artificial fruity taste. Induced with high caffeine levels, these sweet surges increase the mind’s alertness, making it easier to focus on difficult and/or mind-numbing tasks. While some begin their morning with one, many individuals find themselves chugging multiple energy drinks a day, even some late at night to finish procrastinated assignments or other pressing matters. These drinks tend to be preferred over other common energizers such as coffee or soda due to the rapid rate at which they work; in other words, an instant jolt is favored over a long-lasting feeling, at least in Etowah students’ opinion.
“I like energy drinks because of the flavors, typically, but I also enjoy the energy burst the caffeine gives,” Noah Brown, junior, said.
As the demand for these vivacious beverages expands, supply must match society’s requests; this has led to more friendly (and not so friendly) competition between the many energy drink companies. Originating in East Asia, the well-known Red Bull has provided the world with energy since the mid 80’s, closing each commercial with the famous ‘Red Bull gives you wings’ slogan. Though younger than Red Bull, many love the taste of a nice cold Alani Nu, a booster specializing in elevating metabolic rates and burning fat at a quicker pace. For those simply looking for energy accompanied with a little extra vitamin B, Monster and Ghost energy drinks have them covered. While all these brands are seen throughout the school’s halls, one in particular makes an appearance more regularly: Celsius.
“[Celsius] gives me energy for before and after school, and it also helps me focus on my schoolwork while keeping me awake in class,” Amelia Springer, freshman, said.
Celsius, founded in 2004, is a fan favorite due to its excellent attributes helpful for before and after exercise. Like the popular Alani Nu, these can burn body fat and decrease fatigue, allowing for a more effective workout. From Peach Vibe to Sparkling Mango Passionfruit, many flavors are available to enjoy. Additionally, the brand’s advertising strategy proved to be remarkably successful indeed: each can comes brightly decorated with images representing the content’s specific flavor along with a flashy color meant to draw attention to the product, acting as a finishing touch. Celsius, proficient in taste, quality, and appearance, has without doubt made its way into many Etowah students’ hearts.
“I really enjoy the Celsius drinks, my favorite one being Fantasy Vibe. I usually drink them before I go into work just because I tend to be worn out after a day at school. My whole family loves them, especially my sister who steals them from my mom all the time,” Makenna Sewell, senior, said.
Though there might be controversy on which energy drink should take the cake, everyone can agree that these liquid miracles tend to be a staple for teens at Etowah. To vote on a personal favorite, click here.
