Energy drinks have become popular with consumers over the last few years. However, pediatricians say that these drinks are not good for children or teens and water should be the beverage of choice.

In a clinical report published in the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and reported by CNN showed that energy drinks have been linked to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure as well as anxiety and sleep disturbances.


Dr. Marcie Beth Schneider, a member of the AAP committee on nutrition and co-author of the report said, "Some kids are drinking energy drinks containing large amounts of caffeine, when their goal is simply to rehydrate after exercise. This means they are ingesting large amounts of caffeine and other stimulants, which are dangerous."

She goes on to say, "There is a lot of confusion about sports drinks and energy drinks, and adolescents are often unaware of the differences in these products". Parents can play a vital role in what their children consume. Some of the young athletes are looking for an edge to beat their competition and they think energy drinks provide that edge. Everyone needs to be educated about the dangers these drinks pose to children and teens.
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http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/307357
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