Energy Drinks

There has been some recent concern over calls to Poison Control Centers due to “caffeine intoxication,” with media articles citing an increase in consumption of energy drinks by teens and children as the culprit. However, the majority of calls were actually related to people consuming dietary supplements containing caffeine, as opposed to energy drinks. Many of the reported effects occurred when caffeine was combined with other ingredients and then ingested along with other pharmaceuticals.

Although studies suggest that most of these calls to Poison Control Centers are actually not from consuming energy drinks, if you have children, you should talk to them about practicing moderation in all aspects of their diet and lives, including consuming moderate amounts of caffeinated foods and beverages. These beverages are designed to provide an extra energy boost, which many teens and children should not need, as they are young and naturally energetic. However, having one energy drink for enjoyment from time to time should not harm a healthy individual.