|
 |
|
|
|
The continued popularity of energy drinks, especially among young athletes, has health experts warning of the consequences.
An average cup of brewed coffee has 95 milligrams of caffeine, but cold drinks such as Rockstar can offer twice as much. Caffeine taken in moderate amounts is not harmful, but excessive doses can lead to someone feeling over-stimulated and jittery, said Lisa Wojahn, clinic dietician at MeritCare in Fargo. And for athletes, another big factor is often overlooked.
"It affects sleep patterns and that can compromise an athlete's recovery for their training session," she said. "If they're drinking mostly energy drinks, they don't get the nutrients they need. When the stimulants wear off, they don't have any energy left to go on.
Jennifer Johnson
July 3, 2009
Copyright © 2009 The Daily News
Print