Health

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are not suitable for children and teens. They are also not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart disease, or people who are sensitive to caffeine.

Energy drinks typically contain:

• Caffeine (ranges from 30mg/250ml to 150mg/250ml, depending on the brand)
• Guarana ( a caffeine extract from a plant)
• Sugar (in higher quantities than sports drinks)
• Protein (the amino acid taurine is often added to these drinks
• Vitamin B

The higher caffeine content of these drinks can produce a variety of unpleasant side effects. The high sugar levels in these drinks can reduce the body’s ability to absorb water, meaning that it is dangerous to consume these drinks before, during or after physical activity. It is particularly dangerous to mix energy drinks with alcohol.

For more information, go to www.drugaware.com.au

Jenny Hill

College Nurse