Sep 22, 2015 07:00 PM EDT
Energy Drinks Linked To Traumatic Brain Injury Among Teens
Energy drinks have been making the headlines as it was revealed that it can be affiliated with TBI. Numerous studies have been made in regards to this matter. As per Science Daily, one study was made stating: “Teens who reported a traumatic brain injury in the past year were seven times more likely to have consumed at least five energy drinks in the past week than those without a history of TBI, according to a study published in PLOS ONE.”
Dr. Michael Cusimano, a neurosurgeon at St. Michael’s Hospital made a statement in regards to energy drink and alcohol consumption among teens and traumatic brain injury.
“We’ve found a link between increased brain injuries and the consumption of energy drinks or energy drinks mixed with alcohol, this is significant because energy drinks have previously been associated with general injuries, but not specifically with TBI.”
He then added:
“Energy drinks, such a Red Bull and Rockstar, contain high levels of caffeine and change the chemical state of the body, which can prevent people from getting back on track after a TBI,” said Dr. Cusimano. “Brain injuries among adolescents are particularly concerning because their brains are still developing.”
As per his studies, he also came into conclusion that caffeinated drinks are often linked to teens who play sports as it gives them an extra boost, plus the fact that it is usually advertised by their favorite athlete.
“I think that energy drinks appeal to teens, especially athletes, because the drinks provide temporary benefits such as increased alertness, improved mood and enhanced mental and physical states, advertisements for the drinks also often feature prominent athletes.”
Not only is energy drinks linked to TBI, Mirror also reported that that it affects a pupil’s behavior. As per reports, a teaching union called NASUWT stated that energy drinks gives kids a certain high which affects their behavior in school.
Their secretary, Chris Keates stated:
‘These drinks are becoming increasingly popular among young people and are often seen as simply like any other soft drink, but many young people and their parents are not aware of the very high levels of stimulants that these drinks contain.’
