A new look at data from the Canadian Study of Adolescent Behaviors shows that teens and young adults who use pre‑workout supplements such as Bang!, Jack3D, or C4 often get very little sleep.
Researchers checked information from more than 1,000 people aged 16‑30. They found that anyone who reported using a pre‑workout product in the last year was over twice as likely to say they slept five hours or less each night. Health experts usually recommend about eight hours of sleep for people in this age group.
High Caffeine May Worsen the Problem
Guidelines say teens should aim for 8‑10 hours of sleep, while young adults need 7‑9 hours. Yet many young Canadians fall short. The study suggests that the stimulant ingredients in pre‑workout powders could be making it harder to get enough rest during a critical time for physical and mental growth.
"These products often contain large amounts of caffeine—anywhere from 90 mg to more than 350 mg, which is more than a can of soda (about 35 mg) and even more than a cup of coffee (around 100 mg)," said lead researcher Ganson. "Our findings point to pre‑workout use as a possible reason for poor sleep, which is essential for healthy development, mental well‑being, and school performance."
Experts Ask for More Education and Rules
Doctors, nurses, and social workers should talk with young people about the risks of pre‑workout supplements. Simple steps, like stopping use 12‑14 hours before bedtime, could help protect sleep.
The results also add weight to calls for stricter regulation of dietary supplements in Canada.
"Many teens think pre‑workout powders are harmless fitness aids," Ganson noted. "These findings highlight why families need clear information about how these products can disturb sleep and affect overall health."