Researchers say non-alcoholic energy drinks may lead to serious drinking problems in young adults. A study conducted by the Center on Young Adult Health and Development at the University of Maryland School Public Health found that college students who drank at least one caffeine-laden energy drink per week were more likely to become problem drinkers or full-fledged alcoholics.
The study was based on interviews with some 1,100 fourth-year college students. Students who reported drinking the most energy drinks were more likely to become dependent on alcohol. The findings of the study were published online in Time in November, 2010.
The findings of the study present further questions, such as why are so many young adults feel they need energy drink pick-me-ups in the first place? Energy drinks typically contain large amounts of caffeine which often provide a quick, but brief energy boost.
The Mayo Clinic recommends getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a nutritious diet rather than grabbing an energy drink. Talk to your doctor if lifestyle adjustments don’t improve your energy levels. It may be a sign of anemia, hypothyroidism or even depression.
Other Side Effects Linked to Energy Drinks
An increased risk of alcoholism isn’t the only potential problem associated with the regular consumption of energy drinks. The high sugar content in many energy beverages may lead to weight gain and tooth decay.
High caffeine levels in energy drinks can cause sleep disturbances, irritability, nervousness, increased blood pressure and rapid heartbeat, points out the Mayo Clinic. Abnormal heart rhythms can be life-threatening in some people.
Mixing Alcohol and Caffeine Can be Dangerous
The University of Maryland School Public Health study comes on the heels of reports that several states have banned a fruit-flavored malt beverage with a12% alcohol content.
Drinking beverages that contain alcohol and caffeine can mask the feeling of intoxication and possibly lead to heavier drinking and alcohol-induced injuries, warns the Mayo Clinic.
Caffeine can make you feel more awake and alert than you really are. This may impair your judgment and lead to poor decisions, such as getting behind the wheel because you think you are capable of driving safely.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic, “Can Energy Drinks Really Boost a Person’s Energy?” (Accessed November 20, 2010)
Mayo Clinic, “Energy Drinks Can Have a Variety of Adverse Effects on the Body” (Accessed November 20, 2010)
New York Daily News, “College kids to consume drinks loaded with caffeine are more likely to become alcoholics” (Accessed November 20, 2010)
Karen Gaskell - Karen Jean Gaskell has worked as a radio and television journalist for more than three decades. During her career Karen has written and ...
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