June 2, 2019, 5:03 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The cardiovascular system of children and adolescents does not handle large amounts of energy drinks well. Experts from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment point this out. The culprit is clear: the caffeine contained in large quantities. But how much caffeine is still “good” for young people?
Excessive consumption of energy drinks can increase health risks for children and adolescents, according to experts. This primarily affects the cardiovascular system, reports the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) in Berlin.
Alcohol Amplifies Caffeine Effects
Many are unaware that additional alcohol consumption or strenuous physical activity further amplifies the unwanted effects of caffeine. Moderate consumption of energy drinks poses no health risk for healthy adults.
Also interesting: This is the ideal time for caffeine before training
The BfR has evaluated studies. According to these, after consuming one liter or more, some young adults experienced effects such as disruptive heart palpitations, shortness of breath, uncontrolled muscle tremors, severe nausea, and anxiety. These unwanted effects ranged from moderate to severe.
Surveys have shown that in Germany, one in ten children and adolescents consumes one liter or more of energy drinks on certain occasions, such as in clubs or at gaming parties, according to the BfR.
This Is How Much Caffeine Teens Should Consume at Most
A 250-milliliter can of energy drink typically contains 80 milligrams of caffeine, it was stated. The European Food Safety Authority recommends that children and adolescents should not consume more than three milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight daily.
With material from dpa