Energy Drinks for Kids?

 

 

According to a recent article in Forbes, energy drinks are the largest growing segment in the beverage industry.  Most of this growth can be attributed to popularity with teens and preteens.  Despite a warning label for consumers under 18, the beverages are marketed via sponsorship of sporting events and other campaigns which create a caffeinated buzz among kids.

 

Energy drinks have been on the front page since the parents of 14-year old Maryland teen Anais Fournier have sued Monster Beverage after their daughter died from a heart attack caused by caffeine toxicity after drinking just two cans of the beverage.

 

Last week, my 12-year old daughter attended a bar mitzvah where she said kids were drinking two or three cans of Red Bull.  While bartenders wouldn't serve a 12 or 13-year old beer or a cocktail, they seem to have no problem serving the equivalent of five cans of Diet Coke to tweens or teens.

 

Are energy drinks safe for kids? 

 

According to The Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (February 2011), "pediatric healthcare providers need to be aware of energy drink consumption by children, adolescents, and young adults and the potential dangers caused by inappropriate use."  The Journal recommends physicians screen for use, especially in athletes, children with high-risk behavior and with certain health conditions including diabetes, hypertension, ADHD, cardiac problems, anxiety, poor nutrition and sleep disturbances.  Unless longterm studies prove energy drinks are safe for children and adolescents, the Academy advocates regulation similar to tobacco, alcohol, and prescription medications.

 

How are energy drink manufacturers given the green light to include mega-doses of caffeine and how are the manufacturers able to evade including caffeine content in labeling? 

 

Since energy drinks have been on the shelves and in mini-mart refrigerator cases, the FDA has allowed manufacturers to sell as supplements rather than foods, a category that requires less regulation with regards to caffeine content and labeling. For reference, one 16-oz. can of Diet Coke contains approximately 45 g of caffeine.  A 24-oz. can of Monster contains 240 mg of caffeine. 

 

A recent NY Times article states FDA officials did not find enough evidence about caffeine's safety to prompt further action.  The burden of proof is left to the energy drink manufacturers who are motivated to sell more drinks. 

 

How much caffeine is safe for healthy adults?  Many physicians and medical professionals suggest no more than 300 mg per day or the equivalent of  three 'short" coffees.  How much caffeine is safe for children or adolescents?  The verdict is still out.

 

Most parents wouldn't dream of giving a 12-year old four No-Doz tablets chased by a double espresso.  Yet, post-soccer game or at a party, kids can be found chugging 240 mg or more of caffeine in an energy beverage.

 

Just say no!