Osteopathic Medical Profession Supports Education about Potential Dangers of Energy Drinks

By Jeremy Morris, Associate Editor, US Daily Review.

While energy drinks are a popular beverage choice, particularly among young adults, many people might not be aware of the potential health issues their favorite drink could cause. The American Osteopathic Association’s House of Delegates voted today to support community awareness and education regarding the potential effects of consuming energy drinks.

Most popular energy drinks contain elevated amounts of caffeine, which, when consumed in large quantities, can produce detrimental health effects, including dehydration, anxiety and digestive problems. Another potential danger is mixing alcohol with energy drinks. This combination can lead to a greater risk of abuse since the stimulants in energy drinks make people feel more alert, masking the effects of consuming alcohol by making the effects of alcohol seem less apparent.

“While having one energy drink is probably fine, consuming several energy drinks over a short period of time could lead to health issues since most energy drinks have more caffeine than a serving of coffee or soda,” says William J. Burke, DO, an AOA board-certified family physician. “That is why moderation is so important no matter what food or drink you consume.”

The policy also encourages physicians to increase screening for energy drink consumption by talking to their patients about energy drinks during examinations.


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