More Deaths Due to Energy Drinks, But Here's Why Nothing is Being Done
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Amber Lee
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Darwin - survival of the fittest. No, that's not why nothing is being done to limit the amount of caffeine in energy drinks. Although, survival of the fittest was my first thought.
Hospitalizations and deaths linked to excessive energy drink use are on the rise. Why is nothing being done? The easy answer is: caffeine affects individuals too differently. That is what makes it tough to determine a 'safe' quantity.
Monster released a statement that said, “Neither the science nor the facts support the allegations that have been made. Monster reiterates that its products are and have always been safe.” They also pointed out 16-oz can of Monster contains only about half the caffeine found in a 16-oz cup of premium coffee.
The toxic dose for caffeine is somewhere around 10g. But, that value fluctuates depending on how the individual processes the stimulant. Genetic variations, age, whether or not you smoke - these all affect how quickly caffeine leaves the body.
This story is not meant to scare you into giving up coffee or even an energy drink or two a day. If you use your head, you'll be fine. Drinking a pot of coffee followed by 8 energy drinks - that's when you'll get into trouble. If you've got kids, make sure they realize to keep it sane with the energy drinks.
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