Drinking to exam success

10th May 2006

Some claim to "give you wings", but boys who rely too heavily on high caffeine drinks could see their exam results plummeting, according to new research.

A TNS survey of exam-takers showed that boys may be doing more harm than good with the drinks they are consuming during the stressful exam season. Two thirds of boys claim to rely on high caffeine drinks to keep them going as they cram for exams whereas girls, who traditionally score higher in exams, were more likely to reach for a cuppa.

Experts warn that while the overload of caffeine will keep students awake, concentration could be impaired, wheras a small dose of caffeine could help to aid concentration and allow a restful night’s sleep.

"Exams are a balancing act of preparation and performance…" said independent nutritionist, Dr. Carrie Ruxton, "there is a wealth of research that shows a moderate amount of caffeine can actually improve performance, rather than impair it, and it is important to keep refreshed and alert to let the body perform at its maximum potential."

Twice as many boys as girls opted for high caffiene drinks. Girls were more likely than boys to opt for tea as their prefered revision buddy - a third of them drank tea as part of their exam preparation, which could be why their exam results generally exceed their male counterparts.

Dr. Carrie Ruxton adds; "Tea will ensure students are kept hydrated and because of the moderate amount of caffeine in a cup of tea, 4 cups a day are just enough to pep them up and help them concentrate without any negative side effects."

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