Energy Drinks & Caffeine: Recent Review This is a summary of a
review by Wolk et al concerning the negative effects of energy
drinks (Current opinion in pediatrics: Mar 19, 2012). The
popularity of Energy drinks and other energy products has grown
exponentially over the last few years. Their use is not without
risk and this review by the scientists discusses them in
relation to younger consumers. Energy drinks are normally loaded
with simple sugars, caffeine and other active ingredients. But
it’s Caffeine, Wolk et al argue, that may be the problematic
active ingredient in energy drinks. Excessive consumption of
caffeine in adolescents may cause, amongst others: -
Intoxication, resulting in tachycardia, vomiting & cardiac
arrhythmias. - May raise blood pressure & disrupt adolescent
sleep patterns. - Exacerbate psychiatric disease & cause
physiologic dependence.