London - Sales of energy drinks loaded with caffeine and sugar should be restricted because they pose a danger to the young, a study suggests.
More than two-thirds of ten to 18-year-olds in Europe buy drinks such as Red Bull and Monster and their popularity is growing, the World Health Organisation has found in a study.
It warned that the young were at risk of “potentially harmful adverse and developmental effects”.
Lead author Dr Joao Breda called for restrictions on sales of the drinks to children.He also recommended limiting the amount of caffeine allowed in a single can or bottle.
The study, which analysed existing research, said: “The aggressive marketing of energy drinks targeted at young people combined with limited and varied regulation have created an environment where energy drinks could pose a significant threat to public health.”
Large amounts of caffeine can raise the risk of Type 2 diabetes and cause fits and even death. High intake has also been tied to depression and addiction.
Energy drinks may be more likely to cause caffeine overdoses because they can be drunk more quickly than hot beverages such as tea and coffee, the study said.
Seven in ten young people who consume energy drinks mix them with alcohol – leaving users less aware of how drunk they are.
Studies show mixing the drinks makes people more likely to drink-drive, fight and take sexual risks. Excess consumption has been linked to several deaths, although more research is needed to prove a link.
Gavin Partington, of the British Soft Drinks Association, said: “Several of the policy recommendations are already well-established through the BSDA’s voluntary code and EU regulation.”
The recommended maximum caffeine intake is about 400mg a day – or around five cups of filter coffee. A standard 250ml can of Red Bull has 80mg of caffeine and 27.5g of sugar, while a 500ml can of Monster contains 160mg of caffeine and 55g of sugar.
Denmark and Turkey have banned energy drinks, while Sweden limits sales to under-15s. They are also banned from many schools, but there is no law against sales to children.
Last year Joshua Merrick, 19, who drank Animal Rage energy drink before working out, was found dead. A doctor did not rule out the drink playing a role, but said Joshua had an enlarged heart. His death was recorded as being from natural causes. - Daily Mail