Awake and Alert: Examining the Portrayal of Energy Drinks on TikTok

PURPOSE

Energy drinks (EDs) are not recommended for minors' consumption due to a myriad of health risks, but marketing initiatives persist. This study explored the promotion of EDs on TikTok, a platform frequented by children and adolescents.

METHODS

197 highly viewed videos from the four top ED-related hashtags on TikTok were coded for engagement variables, user information, sponsorship status, video content, and sentiment toward EDs.

RESULTS

Of the 197 videos analyzed (combined 70 + million views), 29% disclosed sponsorship and 22% featured a child/adolescent. ED consumption appeared in 46% of videos, with 15% depicting hazardous consumption. Most videos (67%) had a positive sentiment toward EDs.

DISCUSSION

ED-related TikTok videos are positively framed, have high engagement, and are not restricted for viewing by minors. As the platform's underage user-base grows, such videos may encourage heightened consumption. Given the known health risks, effective age-gated content restrictions are needed to reduce minors' exposure.

Vitamin C in CC14 hepatotoxicity--a preliminary report

1. The hepatotoxic effect of CC14 was studied in the rat by using 3 well established liver function tests (plasma glucose, bilirubin and proteins) as indices of hepatic integrity. 2. The protective effect of vitamin C against this hepatotoxicity was also investigated. 3. CC14 (8 ml kg-1 body weight) caused a decrease in the levels of plasma conjugated bilirubin, glucose and protein. 4. Vitamin C (2 g kg-1 body weight) prevented liver damage induced by CC14. The possible mechanisms of protection are highlighted.