Caffeine and Energy Drink Consumption: Impact on Adolescent Sleep and Neurological Performance

Abstract

The present research analyzed the effect of caffeine and energy drink consumption on sleep quality and neurological performance among junior and senior high school students at the “Abdón Calderón” Military School. The study was conducted under a quantitative approach, with a correlational scope and a non-experimental, cross-sectional design, applying a structured survey to a non-probabilistic sample of cadets during the 2025-2026 academic year. The results determined that 42.1% of the students consumed stimulants 2 to 4 days per week, primarily to prolong nocturnal wakefulness due to academic workload. A significant alteration in sleep architecture was identified, where 60.5% of those surveyed evidenced frequent daytime sleepiness and difficulties in achieving deep sleep. In the neurological field, 75% of the respondents reported adverse effects such as irritability, anxiety, and lack of concentration, contradicting the perception of improvement in academic performance. It was concluded that the chronic consumption of these substances generates physical dependence and tolerance that compromises mental health and restorative rest, highlighting the urgent need for sleep hygiene programs and nutritional education within the military and academic training of future graduates.