Sep 24, 2008 3:45 pm US/Pacific
Study Links Health Problems To Energy Drinks
(CBS)
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Red Bull came to the United States in the late 90's, and today, sales of energy drinks account for a 5.4 billion dollar industry.
AP
Energy drinks are on store shelves everywhere and are especially popular among students. A new study out of the John Hopkins School of Medicine finds drinking too much of these energy drinks can have serious health effects.
Many Americans are drinking energy drinks as opposed to that 'Old Cuppa Joe,' but many might want to examine what they are really consuming.
Researchers say that drinking one energy drink, such as Red Bull, is like drinking 14 cans of Coca Cola. Side effects include anxiety, restlessness and rapid heart beat.
There are literally hundreds of energy drinks available for sale, but many do not indicate caffeine content. The question is whether or not you are buying an energy drink or a drink that contains 500mg of caffeine.
Roland Griffiths teaches psychiatry and neuroscience at John Hopkins School of Medicine. He co-authored The Study on Possible Caffeine Risks Associated with These High Energy Drinks, and Who's Buying Them.
"If you are look at the advertising," said Griffiths, "they are being paired very often with extreme sports."
Students are another main reason behind the huge energy drink sales. At exam time, energy drink sales at many liqor stores are high.
The solution to reduce side effects may be moderation and better labeling. Right now, drink-makers do not have to reveal their caffeine content.
Energy drinks Red Bull and Monster energy account for 95 percent of energy drink sales. Red Bull came to the United States in the late 90's, and today, sales of energy drinks account for a 5.4 billion dollar industry.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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