Energy drink consumption among collegiate student-athletes: A cross-sectional study examining consumer motivations and vulnerabilities

This study investigated the key factors driving energy drink (ED) consumption among collegiate student-athletes. Collegiate student-athletes (n = 165) from a National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division 1 institution completed an electronic cross-sectional survey that assessed motivations, beliefs, social influence, and environmental factors driving ED consumption within this population. Independent t-tests evaluated differences in ED consumption rates based on numerous individual and social factors, p < 0.05. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in ED consumption rates based on individual, social, and environmental factors. Higher perceived consumption on one’s team, comfort with consumption around teammates and coaches, and the belief that consumption provides physical and mental benefits were associated with higher ED consumption among respondents. Overall, this study highlighted a multifaceted complexity in the factors driving ED consumption within collegiate student-athletes. Focused education efforts and policy reform are key in preventing excess consumption among this vulnerable population.