Can energy drinks be dangerous for children? Doctors warn of the risks

Medical experts warn that energy drinks, which can contain high levels of caffeine, may cause heart rate changes, high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and in severe cases, seizures in children and adolescents. While Portugal has existing laws (Lei n.º 30/2019) restricting the advertising of energy-dense foods and beverages to those under 16, there is no current national ban on their sale to minors, though the Directorate-General of Health (DGS) has previously discussed the possibility of such a restriction.