Czech Doctors Urge Caution Against PRIME Energy Drink, Despite Its Popularity Among Youth

YouTube has long been setting the scene for popular fads and trends, the newest of which is the PRIME energy drink founded by world-famous YouTubers Logan Paul and Olajide William Olayinka, otherwise known as KSI.  

The energy drink has been promoted extensively by the original creators, as well as other notable personalities from the sports world, however, its suitability for children and composition has raised concerns.

It is not just the high content of caffeine, according to a practitioner, but also the large dose of potassium which poses risks. Excessive intake of it could cause a range of health issues such as heart problems, muscle weakness, and overall fatigue.

“A lot of my friends drink it, it is a hit in the classroom and at school,” said twelve-year-old Matouš, who attends secondary school to iDNES.

Some children even exchange and sell the cans with one another and others drink the energy drink regularly, “I think it is the most popular energy drink in elementary schools right now” adds Matouš. The reason for the popularity of the drink is evident to Matouš, as the brand is promoted by celebrities with millions of followers, especially children.

Sweetened coconut water worth CZK 300

Up until a few months ago, it was difficult to find the popular drink in the country and could only be ordered from the UK or in online stores, meaning a small can cost up to CZK 320.

Today, however, the drink is available in convenience stores, chain stores, and even drugstores for only CZK 90, attracting even more intrigued children.

The drink comes in two basic variants and flavors that imitate ice cream or fruit. The “energy” variant, sold in cans containing 200mg of caffeine, is equivalent to three espressos.

The second variant, “hydration”, is caffeine-free but replaced with a large dose of potassium, which according to the half-liter bottle comprises 700mg of its content. Doctors, however, point out that neither option is suitable for children.

According to the Czech doctor Rodion Schwarz, energy drinks often contain high quantities of caffeine and other stimulants, and because children are far more sensitive to caffeine than adults, it has various negative effects on children.

Among the other effects of caffeine, he mentions increased heart rate and blood pressure, insomnia, sleep disturbances, nervousness, anxiety, and dehydration.

“The high potassium content of the hydration drink can be problematic, if children consume the drink in large quantities, especially if their diet is not balanced and does not contain enough sodium. While potassium is an important electrolyte for muscle and nerve function, excessive intake can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition in which there is too much potassium in the blood, which can be dangerous”.