The FDA recently gave some 30 companies that produce caffeinated energy drinks with alcohol 30 days to prove, with supporting data, that their drinks are safe.
As reported by the LA Times, the FDA never has approved the addition of caffeine to an alcoholic beverage, and a task force of state attorneys general and other officials has urged the agency to scrutinize the combination. The nation's two largest brewers, Anheuser-Busch Cos. and Miller-Coors, stopped selling caffeinated alcoholic beverages last year, after an investigation by the task force.
These beverages are becoming increasing popular among young people, especially college students. The potential health issues from this combination are not completely known but the fact that caffeine can mask the effects of alcohol is alarming. People may consume far more alcohol than they normally would without it. It is also a concern that these products specifically target youth with their advertising methods.
America's youth have yet another unhealthy pit fall to avoid. Most caffeinated energy drinks do not contain alcohol but many do pack a lot of caffeine and sugar. Many people feel they have a legitimate reason for consuming these drinks like long working hours, students cramming for exams or the busy housewife who doesn't get enough sleep.
There are healthy alternatives to boost energy which include diet, exercise, the amount of sleep you get and how much water you drink. In the long run your body will break down being fed this diet of sugar and caffeine. Check out this article on Health.com for some healthy ways to keep you going strong.
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