Children’s Books About Health

I wrote some children’s books about various health issues that kids might face for themselves or possibly other kids that they know. My goal was to help kids understand that often, they might have a thing that makes them unique but it doesn’t mean they aren’t also the same as everyone else. Sometimes they need to know that doctors aren’t always scary or painful.

I’m also sharing some other books that I like for kids about health issues. More will be added to the list later! Click the pictures to go to Amazon and get your copies!

Kennedy Gets Leg Braces

Kennedy is a little girl who was born with club feet. As a baby she had to go through surgery to correct her feet and then wear different kinds of leg braces on and off as she grew up. Now she is in first grade and wears ankle braces most of the time but it’s ok because they don’t bother her and she can run and play just like everyone else!

Gunnar Gets Glasses

#1 New Release in Children’s Doctor’s Visits Books

Gunnar is a little boy who needed glasses when he was 3 years old. He was born very early and had some trouble with his eyes as an infant then as he got bigger he started blinking a lot and squinting when looking at computer or ipad. His mom (me) knew that this might be a sign of struggling vision so we went to the eye doctor to get checked out and they decided to try out glasses. They eye doctor thinks he may outgrow needing them but we will see as he gets older. For now he wears them with no problem…. except they get dirty and he needs mom or dad to clean them!

The Ten B’s

#1 New Release in Nursing Pediatrics

This one is written by our other favorite school nurse, The School Nurse, Elisabeth Barclay. It’s a picture book aimed at the younger kids to help explain when is a good reason to see the school nurse. If you sneezed once or stepped in dog poop on your way to school then you don’t need the nurse but if you threw up all over the place or have a big fever then you probably should head over there.

Ollie’s Tonsils

By by Tony Densley (Author), Niki Palmer (Author)

Ouch! Ollie’s throat is sore yet again.

Oh no, Ollie will have to have his tonsils taken out.

Is it scary? Will it hurt? How will they do it?

Ollie finds the answers to his questions and realizes he feels much better after his operation.

Designed to help little ones face their fear of visiting the hospital. Ollie’s Tonsils Introduces the child to a Doctor, Nurse, Anaesthetist, and Surgeon and the instruments and machines they will use during Ollie’s hospital stay. By the time the child has their surgery, they know what to expect.

Ollie’s Tonsils is a tool for parents to aid in making the trip to the hospital or a doctor easier for any child.

All Beanz Books are reviewed by a Doctor for accuracy, plus childhood educators and teachers for language and ideas to assist the child and parent in everyday situations.

Check back later for more awesome kids books about health issues! If you know about any that you love please let me know!

Important change to childhood immunization schedule: Pneumococcal

The 2024 ACIP immunization schedule for children and adolescents includes an important change regarding pneumococcal vaccine guidance.  
 
In addition to all children 2 – 23 months, pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for children with moderate persistent or severe persistent asthma aged 2 to 18 years.  

Patients who are asthmatic and previously only vaccinated with PCV13 or PCV15 should receive an additional dose of PCV20 (or PPSV23) for additional protection.*  

Asthma disproportionally affects children from low socioeconomic status and communities of color. “Many of these children end up hospitalized with status asthmaticus secondary to viral infections, and some may develop superimposed bacterial pneumonia,” says Dr. Mayssa Abuali, Immunization Program Medical Specialist.  

With PCV20 anticipated to be more widely available than PPSV23 in pediatric practices and greater clarity in the latest recommendation, clinicians should seize the opportunity to protect this vulnerable population.  
 
*PCV20: pneumococcal conjugate 20-valent vaccine 
PPSV23: pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 

Fragrances, air fresheners and essential oils

I think most of us are guilty of wanting our environment to smell comforting, pleasant, relaxing or clean. I happen to love a good “clean cotton” scent or a medicinal healthy eucalyptus, others enjoy their favorite perfume or cologne as part of their morning routine… but is it appropriate in a school or healthcare setting?

Fragrances are linked to emotions and memories. Smell often triggers our daily moods – good and bad! When I smell certain foods I didn’t like as a child it definitely affects my mood. When I smell more pleasant (to me) things like eucalyptus, tea tree or roses it makes me feel happy. But I definitely fall victim to headaches and irritated respiratory tract when exposed to strong or chemical fragrances and odors.

How is this an issue?

Artificial fragrances are a major trigger for asthmatics. Perfumes are triggering because they are commonly made with chemicals derived from coal tar and petrol, to help them stick to the object they are sprayed on. Body sprays are often made with a propellant like aerosol which can be irritating to the lungs. Bathroom sprays and air fresheners are often made with the same chemicals and propellants.

Fragranced items emit numerous volatile organic compounds, such as limonene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde and semi-volatile organic compounds, such as musks and phthalates. However, ingredients in fragranced products are exempt from full disclosure on product labels or safety data sheets, limiting awareness of potential emissions and exposures. (Taylor, S., 2019)

A study done in June of 2016 showed that among asthmatics, 64.3% reported one or more types of adverse health effects from exposure to one or more types of fragranced products (43.3% respiratory problems; 27.2% mucosal symptoms; 28.2% migraine headaches; 19.0% skin problems; 27.9% asthma attacks; 15.1% neurological problems; 14.1% cognitive problems; 12.1% gastrointestinal problems; 9.8% cardiovascular problems; 11.1% immune system problems; 9.5% musculoskeletal problems; and 1.3% other). Among non-asthmatics, 23.8% reported one or more types of adverse health effects from exposure to one or more types of fragranced products. Thus, among all types of health effects (excepting asthma attacks), asthmatics are more likely to be affected than non-asthmatics. (Steinman, A. 2018)

People exposed to chemical fragrances often will complain of asthma flares, coughing, itchy throat, headaches, migraines, and general unwell feeling.

But it stinks in here, what can I do?

  • Avoid using essential oils and oil diffusers at school/work. Essential oils are highly concentrated and emit strong odors due to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including terpenes, toluene, and benzene, when diffused in the air. They will often contribute to worsening asthma symptoms after exposure.
  • Avoid using air fresheners or bathroom sprays. Most store bought air fresheners contain tons of chemicals and fragrances that can be detrimental in many ways (https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/safe-product-guides/air-fresheners/). Hospital grade odor eliminator sprays can be used in moderation like Medi-Choice unscented, or April Fresh Biological Odor Eliminator. Alternatively, one could use baking soda; a dish of vinegar (not together because volcanoes); or believe it or not, coffee is a great odor eliminator. Please comment if you know any awesome fragrance/chemical free odor eliminators!
  • Avoid using perfumes, colognes, and body sprays to school. Save them for home or outside of school – that way they will last longer too!
  • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to clean the air.
  • Himalayan salt lamps: scientific evidence does NOT back this one up but allegedly they can attract pollutive particles in the air and improve allergies and asthma. They shouldn’t be used to treat the asthma but can be used to help freshen the air. https://www.realsimple.com/health/mind-mood/what-do-salt-lamps-do

Do you have any advice about using fragrances in school? What alternatives do you use?

Steinemann A. Fragranced consumer products: effects on asthmatics. Air Qual Atmos Health. 2018;11(1):3-9. doi: 10.1007/s11869-017-0536-2. Epub 2017 Dec 11. PMID: 29391919; PMCID: PMC5773620.

https://gimmethegoodstuff.org/safe-product-guides/air-fresheners/

https://www.realsimple.com/health/mind-mood/what-do-salt-lamps-do

https://asthma.net/living/fragrance-induced

Shop now for Witch costumes!

How To Go Out In Public: An Instructional Series. Part 1: Walking in Public

Ever leave the house and see other people behaving ridiculously and wonder “did no one ever teach that person how to person?” Well, probably no, no one ever taught that person how to be a person or told them life rules and manners like some of us were told like how to cross the street, how to pay for things at a store or how to behave in places like the doctor’s office or at a store. 

It drives me bananas when I am driving in my car and see people just darting into traffic to cross the street or walking the wrong way IN the street for no particular reason. 

Here are some rules for walking in public:

  1. Sidewalks: You should walk on the sidewalk if there is one instead of in the street where you could get hit by a car. If the road you are on has no sidewalk then according to PennDOT, you should walk as far to the side of the road as possible and always walk AGAINST traffic that way cars can see you and you can see them. 
  2. Crossing the street: Always cross at a crosswalk and a stop light if there is one. Don’t go out into the middle of a street in traffic and try to dodge cars. Someone might not see you in time and you will get hit by a car! Always cross as quickly as you are able and get out of the roadway as fast as possible. 
  3. If you need to cross and there is no light or crosswalk nearby, stay as far to the side of the road as possible and wait until traffic is clear both ways before crossing. Try not to cross at any hills or curves where you can’t see traffic both ways. 
  4. If you are crossing where there is a crosswalk but no traffic lights then pedestrians do have the right-of-way but always watch for vehicles that are coming. 
  5. Pedestrians have to follow traffic signals just like cars. Only cross when the light is green for you or the crossing signal is on, never on a red light or when the crossing signal says “don’t cross”. 
  6. Don’t walk on people’s property that you don’t have permission to. Stay out of people’s lawns, gardens, driveways, porches, and backyards unless you have permission from the homeowner to be there. That is considered trespassing and you can get in trouble. 
  7. It is illegal for pedestrians to walk on expressways or interstate highways. 
  8. Avoid walking on train tracks, especially in locations where you can not get off the tracks should a train come. If crossing over train tracks then you should stop, look, and listen to be sure no trains are coming before crossing. Cross quickly and get off the tracks!
  9. Pay attention to your surroundings. Keep your head up and look around you and don’t be focused on your phone or other people you’re walking with if you can’t also watch where you are walking. Not only do you risk attacks or theft, you also risk tripping and falling over items in the path you didn’t see or running into something and getting hurt. You also risk running into another person and injuring them. 
  10. If you plan to be walking when it’s dark out try not to wear dark clothing. Wearing dark clothing makes it difficult to see you walking and you risk being hit by a car. 

Do you have any additional walking in public safety tips I forgot? Comment and let me know! what other “going out in public” tips I should research? 

https://trafficsafety.ny.gov/tips-pedestrian-safety

https://www.penndot.pa.gov/TravelInPA/Safety/TrafficSafetyAndDriverTopics/Pages/Pedestrian-Safety.aspx#:~:text=If%20no%20sidewalk%20is%20avai,surrounding%2C%20and%20never%20get%20distracted

Idk about you guys but I have ADHD and something I need to get through the day is to make lists and schedules and map everything out. I made up this planner for your organizing pleasure:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1J5P9F7/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_G18EDWHBYJQHGEPRH9R6?linkCode=ml2&tag=ehunter77-20

Site icon
Idk about you guys but I have ADHD and something I need to get through the day is to make lists and schedules and map everything out. I made up this planner for your organizing pleasure:

Health Room Supplies

You asked for it: Here is a rundown of supplies you may need or want in your health room.

Bandages/First aid:

  • Adhesive bandages – varying sizes: In addition to the regular 1″x3″ bandaids, you also need a supply of 2″x4″, 7/8″ spots, and if you have the budget you can also have the fingertip and knuckle bandaids. If desired you can also find the multi skin tone bandaids.
  • Butterfly closures: I use these sparingly for wounds that need further closure in the ER. If you use a butterfly closure make sure to tell the parent that it is not a permanent solution and they need to seek medical care to address the wound.
  • ACE bandages multiple sizes: elastic bandages with the velcro closure are better than the ones with the little metal teeth to hold them closed. Similar to the butterfly closures, be sure to let the parent know that an ACE wrap is not to replace seeking medical evaluation if that is required, it’s a temporary solution to get them through till they can get to the doctor.
  • Wound cleaner/saline/antiseptic: I like the BZK antiseptic towelettes because they are individually packaged, they travel easily in first aid kits, and they don’t sting wounds.
  • Petroleum jelly: I prefer the small individual packets of petroleum jelly for sanitary purposes.
  • Splints – varying sizes: Mainly finger splints are needed but I like to keep some cardboard arm and leg splints available also in case of emergency. They are simple to place on an injury and wrap with ace bandage or tape.
  • Slings: I like the fabric triangle slings for the purpose of immobilizing the arm so the student can get to the hospital to be evaluated.
  • Tape
  • Splinter-out/needle nose tweezers: either is fine for removing splinters. Splinter Out are basically just lancettes.
  • Gauze: Stock with 2×2 and 4×4 gauze for wound cleaning, dressing, and applying ointments.
  • Cotton balls: You can substitute gauze for cotton balls if desired.
  • Cotton tipped applicators: I use these for everything – applying lip balm, petroleum jelly in the nose, hydrocortisone, and cleaning the outside of the ears.
  • Alcohol prep pads
  • Gloves
  • Tissues
  • Tongue depressors
  • Ice bags/ice packs: I prefer to use ice bags and fill them from my ice machine as opposed to reusable ice packs. While it’s not the green way to go they are easily thrown in the trash when they are done instead of trying to keep track of the reusable ones.

Assessment & Tools

  • Thermometer(s): I love the Kinsa Smart Thermometer! It is the easiest to use and the most accurate. It links up to an app also so you can have a record to show parents. Alternatively, oral thermometers are best if possible – Welch-Allyn is the recommended brand to go for.
  • Stethoscope(s)
  • Otoscope: A regular otoscope is best but I also have a really cool digital one that I’m still learning how to use. FYI, you will NOT be using the ear wax removal feature in a school setting.
  • Sphygmomanometer: Have multiple sizes of blood pressure cuffs available for different size students and staff.
  • Scale: The Health-O-Meter is a popular scale/stadiometer combo.
  • Stadiometer: The Health-O-Meter is a popular scale/stadiometer combo.
  • Pulseoximeter: you don’t need anything fancy but I have this one that bluetooths to my phone for a readout.
  • Eye wash station: It’s very important to have some sort of eye wash available in case of anything in the eyes – I regularly have kids splashing hand sanitizer in their eyes, or getting dirt and pollen in their eyes. I like the sink mounted ones like the one I have linked but if you don’t have a sink that lends itself to this then the wall mounted ones are great also.
  • Vision screening tools: You will need various eye charts for different age groups and abilities, near vision, and depending on your state requirements you might need stereo vision, color vision, and the plus lens. All of this can be found on Schoolhealth.com or the other supply companies listed.
  • Audiometer: You need an audiometer, more specifically a pure tone audiometer. MAICO is a popular brand. The OAE hearing screener is not meant for children over 5 years old but can be used for children who are disabled and unable to participate in a pure tone hearing screen. These can be purchased through the dealer or from the school health supply websites.
  • Flashlight/pen light: Needed for checking throats, pupils and other concerns.
  • Woods lamp/blacklight: See my post about Woods Lamps, these can be helpful in assessing for head lice, and some rashes.
  • Wheelchair
  • Gooseneck lamp: a bright light is often needed for things like splinter removal or assessing for lice.
  • Magnifier lamp: often comes as the gooseneck lamp.
  • AED(s): AED can be purchased through the school health supply companies or from direct dealers.
  • Ice machine: Ice machines are a must, especially in elementary. It’s far easier to have the ice machine than it is to make ice in ice cube trays every day!
  • Privacy screen: If you don’t already have a curtain or privacy areas in your health room then these are helpful.
  • Ring cutter: The manual ones are generally the best ones but you can also get the Dremmel one. Remember with a ring cutter you usually need two pairs of needle nose pliers to open the ring once cut.
  • Air purifier: I like the Levoit brand but any one with a HEPA filter will do.

Miscellaneous:

  • Salt (regular table salt): for rinsing mouths from lost teeth, loose teeth and sore throats.
  • Tooth holders: For lost teeth. I absolutely hate the necklace ones because the strings will definitely get tangled, plus the strings are never long enough to wear around the neck. I cut the strings off usually or buy ones that do not have strings.
  • Ammonia inhalant: These are rarely used anymore but I like to have some on hand in case of emergency.
  • Lice combs/screening sticks: little wooden sticks that help you assess someone’s hair for head lice. Pro-tip: they also work as coffee stirrers.
  • Nosebleed clips: Helpful for pinching the nose for nosebleeds, especially for other staff and kids.
  • Cups: paper cups in varying sizes if possible for water and med administration. I accidentally bought one sleeve of tiny ones (I thought I was getting a whole case and it turned out to be one sleeve of tiny cups).
  • Ziplock bags – varying sizes: I store everything in ziplock bags – all meds go in a bag with students name on it, bandaid kits for classrooms go in quart size bags, lots of supplies are organized in them.
  • Peppermints: Optional, I prefer the pillow mints that are melty because the risk of choking is decreased.
  • Baby wipes: Again used for everything from wiping butts to cleaning faces.
  • Cotton rolls: needed for nosebleeds or lost teeth that bleed a lot.
  • Air freshener: Self explanatory. Try to go for the ones that are not heavily scented or the medical grade “odor eliminator” type sprays.
  • Braces wax: for braces injuries and pokey wires.
  • Trauma shears/bandage scissors: Have multiple pairs available, I include trauma shears with my AED to remove clothing or sports equipment.
  • Emesis bags/basins: Optional, I like to keep the bags for field trips in case of motion sickness.
  • Backpacks for field trip meds: helpful to pack meds and first aid supplies.
  • Go-bag: For drills (fire, lockdown, evacuation, etc) to hold supplies like meds, first aid etc.
  • Batteries: Everything needs batteries. Otoscopes, pen lights, label makers etc.
  • Ginger-ale: For upset tummies or low blood sugar.
  • Menstrual care: menstrual pads and/or tampons – you may be able to work with some companies like Always to get free pads or with the department of health.
  • Condoms: Again, you may be able to work with the health department or planned parenthood for free condoms.
  • Cleaning supplies: Lysol wipes, paper towels, etc. Your maintenance people might supply this or it is supplied by the school budget and not health room budget so check with admins if you need to invest in any disinfecting supplies.
  • PPE: Again, PPE may be provided by the district/school and you don’t have to supply it from your budget.

Medications

All medications suggested are based on your district/states guidelines. Some may be able to stock lots of things and others may not be allowed to have anything. Check your guidelines before investing in any meds.

  • Acetaminophen/Tylenol
  • Ibuprofen/Motrin
  • Hydrocortisone
  • Tums
  • Stock Epi-pens
  • Stock Albuterol

Unnecessary but helpful:

  • Robicomb for lice: Comb with small electrical current that zaps lice and nits.
  • Reli-a-light: a flashlight that fits a tongue depressor for looking in throats.
  • Digital otoscope: Allows better ear assessment, and the kids can see their ear on the screen!
  • Mindfulness toys/items: For when kids need a time out or a personality break.
  • Vision SPOT screener: So incredibly helpful for vision screens if your state/district allows it. They are expensive but worth it. This can be purchased from school health supply companies or a dealer.
  • Laminator: I love to make signs and bulletin boards and laminate it all! I have n Amazon one and it works perfectly.
  • Kinsa bluetooth thermometers: They come in ear, forehead, and oral thermometers. It connects to an ap on your phone to log temperatures. Kinsa has a Flu prevention program where you can get free thermometers for the students for home, found here: https://home.kinsahealth.com/kinsa-for-schools
  • Stop the Bleed kit: These are for bleeding trauma injuries like gunshots, stabbing etc. You can have the Stop the Bleed company come out and give a PD for you as well or do online training for the kits.
  • Prepackaged first aid kits: Perfect for field trip bags and storing in the main office or around the school for just in case.
  • CPR pocket masks & face shields: These can be kept with the AED or in visible locations in case of emergency.
  • CPR chest wrap: a cover for the chest that assists in placement of hands and stickers for CPR and AED usage.
  • Stickers/rewards: For after eye exams, hearing screens, or even to work with kids behavior if you’re involved with that.
  • Personal printer/scanner: I can not live without mine! I have an HP all in one printer/scanner/copier and it’s a lifesaver.
  • Vomit absorbent: Your maintenance people might already have this but if they don’t it’s helpful for cleaning up vomit from the floor.
  • Snacks: I keep some snacks like little bags of goldfish, saltines, and pringles on hand in case of emergency. I do NOT advertise that I have goodies though. Always keep snacks in closed bags to prevent mice.
  • Spacers for MDI: The students should be bringing their own but it’s helpful to have some extras on hand. Schoolhealth.com carries disposable ones.
  • Life-vac choking device This is not FDA approved yet so many do not choose to use it but it exists and some swear by it. It’s kind of like a plunger with a mask on it that you can use to get an item out of a choking person’s mouth/throat.
  • Label maker: This helps to keep your stuff neat and tidy and organized. I label the drawers of my med cart, and anything else I might need to be organized.
  • Ear lavage kit: This is more than likely something you would not be using in a school setting depending on your policies as far as what procedures you can do but in a pinch having this can help wash out an ear that has a foreign body.
  • Self care items: Deodorant, toothbrushing, soap/shower wipes, chapstick, pads/tampons
  • Extra clothes and underwear: Students should have their own in their bags but we all know they don’t always. I keep spare underwear and I have a closet full of hand me down uniform clothes. This isn’t convenient for everyone to manage though, and often can be managed by the counsellor or another school staff member.

Most things on this list are linked on Amazon but you may have a contract with one or more of these vendors to get your supplies:

You can check out my TPT for printable supply lists including what to pack in your emergency bags: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/School-Nurse-Supplies-Checklist-9114441

Do you have any supplies that I didn’t mention that are life savers for you? Email or message me and let me know!

Energy Drinks

Thanks, Logan Paul for creating this Prime drink and marketing it to kids who don’t know that it’s not safe for them. We have been noticing an uptick in students bringing various energy drinks to school and we are worried.

They make them in flashy cans and bottles, with awesome flavors like cotton candy or jolly rancher, they advertise them on TikTok and with influencers who are targeting younger people and kids. Most of them are marketed as “safe” because they “just have vitamins” in them but what many don’t realize is that the “natural” ingredients might be just as dangerous as the chemical ingredients, especially for kids.

Most energy drinks are NOT regulated by the FDA because they are marketed as “dietary supplement” and not “food”. They tend to have excessive amounts of caffeine and other chemicals in them. Because they are not regulated by the FDA the manufacturer does not have to print the breakdown of these ingredients on the labels. 

These ingredients can cause heart palpitations, anxiety, panic attacks, headaches, high blood pressure, behavior changes, kidney damage, liver damage, and even lead to stroke, heart attack or cardiac arrest. Everyone is at risk of these effects but children have a higher risk of negative health effects due to their immature developing bodies and brains. 

Ingredients in most energy drinks: 

  • Caffeine: According to the FDA, soda manufacturers cannot have more than 71 mg of caffeine per 12‐ounces; currently there is no regulation for caffeine content in energy drinks. Many “energy drinks” do not state their caffeine content; some have as much caffeine as 14 cans of soda!!!
  • Sugar: the same thing as sucrose, glucose, fructose, corn syrup or high fructose corn syrup. Sugar is known to give an instant boost but after very little time will cause a crash in both energy and alertness. Additionally, sugar has 4 calories per gram, a 8.3 ounce Red Bull has 27 grams of sugar; that’s 108 non‐nutritional calories!  
  • Guarana: a South American plant that produces seeds with 4‐5% caffeine content, while a coffee bean has the caffeine content of 1‐2%. Guarana in a 16‐ounce energy drink ranges from 1.4 mg to as much as 300 mg. It is unclear how much guarana is in each drink because many companies do not list a milligram amount. The safety of guarana in higher levels remains unknown, but these high levels could be easily achieved by consuming multiple drinks 
  • Ginseng: an extract made from the root of the ginseng plant.  Ginseng may increase brain power but since ginseng is not regulated by the FDA it is difficult to know what else you may be getting in your drink!  The amount of ginseng in most drinks is minimal and therefore harmful effects are unlikely, but check with your doctor first if you are taking any medications. 
  • Taurine: one of the most abundant amino acids in the brain, which can act as a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger that allows cells to communicate with one another.  Most energy drinks have anywhere from 20 mg up to 2,000 mg of taurine in a 16‐ounce beverage.  When taurine is dumped into the bloodstream, via consuming an energy drink, it cannot pass through the membranes that protect the brain.  But even if it could, scientists believe taurine would behave more like a sedative than a stimulant.  Taurine is likely safe in small doses, but currently there is little research on taurine consumption in humans.
  • L-Isoleucine: Side effects may include fatigue, nausea and muscle incoordination. Several groups of people should talk to their doctors before taking BCAAs: Pregnant or breastfeeding women. 
  • L-Leucine: Very high doses of leucine may cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). It may also cause pellagra. Symptoms of this can include skin lesions, hair loss, and gastrointestinal problems. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t use leucine supplements. 
  • L-Valine: L-valine is a natural substance that is necessary for our health. As such, it generally does not have any side effects. However, taking large quantities of L-valine can cause fatigue, nausea, and a lack of muscle coordination. Extremely high doses of L-valine can be dangerous. 
  • D-Alpha Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E): a vitamin that is not specifically dangerous.
  • Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin a): Another vitamin that is not specifically dangerous.
  • Zinc Aspartate : an amino acid, often taken as a supplement. Zinc supplementation up to the tolerable upper intake level is generally considered safe. High doses are sometimes used in children with moderate to severe deficiencies or in acute cases of diarrhea. In these instances, the high doses should be limited to a short period of time (10-14 days) in order to prevent gastrointestinal distress, copper deficiency, anemia, or genitourinary complications.
  • Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6): Another vitamin that we do need, B vitamins can increase energy and often the purpose of the combination of B vitamins in products is to increase energy. High doses of vitamin B6 may be harmful to your child’s health depending on how much they consume. The side effects of excess vitamin B6 include: Nerve damage showing up as numbness. Nausea and heartburn.
  • Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B-12): Vitamin B12 deficiency can have distressing neuropsychiatric symptoms. It can have an etiological role in clinical presentations like depression, anxiety, psychosis, dementia, and delirium, requiring screening of at-risk populations. B-12 supplementation can improve energy and mood. Often the purpose of the combination of B vitamins in products is to increase energy.

Some of these ingredients are in fact vitamins and ones that we need to have, however, consuming them in the quantities that are in these energy drinks can be extremely dangerous, especially to younger people. 

Some examples of the energy drinks that kids might try:

Red Bull

Monster

Bang

Rockstar

Prime Energy AND Prime Hydration

5-hour energy

NOS

Celsius

Prime Hydration is a sports drink, not an energy drink and does not have caffeine but it does contain something called BCAA’s which stands for branch chain amino acids (L-Isoleucine, L-Leucine, L-Valine) which are not really studied as to the effects on children but they are known to potentially cause fatigue, nausea, muscle discoordination, and decreased liver and kidney function. It also contains fake sweeteners like Aspartame and Sucralose that can lead to diabetes due to the way it is metabolized plus also lead to inflammatory illness such as arthritis, joint pain and degenerative joint disease. Not to mention that it contains coconut water which is likely to trigger a tree nut allergy which is something I think a lot of kids don’t realize.

Prime Hydration actually has a warning label on the bottles manufactured for Canada stating that people under 15 years old should not consume it. The US bottles do not bear this warning due to different FDA regulations in the US versus regulations in other countries (US is allowed to have a LOT more leeway for ingredients than many other countries but that’s another post).

The bottom line is that children (and adults) should NOT consume energy drinks due to the very dangerous side effects they could experience. Parents should be monitoring what their children are consuming and checking labels if they aren’t familiar with the product. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid these and consult with their doctor about the safety of the hydration drinks.

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2011/05/31/136722667/pediatricians-warn-against-energy-and-sports-drinks-for-kids

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/power-drinks.html

https://www.healthline.com/health-news/energy-sports-drinks-shouldnt-be-given-to-children#The-bottom-line

https://www.arthritisfoundationasia.com/foods-avoid-if-you-have-arthritis.html

https://www.kidspot.com.au/lifestyle/family-health/are-prime-drinks-ok-for-kids-an-expert-explains-what-you-need-to-know/news-story/24da4a0458f1c51295f6a8306bed915f

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/nutrition/energy.htm

https://www.healthylincoln.org/what-we-do/bevinit/energy-drinks-and-kids.html

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