Highly Caffeinated Drinks Produce Slower Responses, Scientists Find
December 7, 2010 by Personal Liberty News Desk
In the wake of the increasing popularity of energy drinks, researchers from Northern Kentucky University recently conducted a study to examine the effects that these sugary and highly caffeinated drinks have on the younger population — especially college students.
The scientists noted that while moderate consumption of sugary drinks are known to improve behavior control, these benefits can disappear as individuals drink these beverages more often.
For the study, a total of 80 college students between the ages of 18 and 40 were analyzed. Some of the participants were given energy drinks while others consumed soda that contained less caffeine. Another group was considered to be controls, as they did not drink any caffeine.
The subjects each took a computer test approximately 30 minutes after finishing their designated beverages. The researchers also analyzed how mentally tired the participants felt during this time.
While the students who had consumed the energy drinks reported feeling less tired compared to the other groups, the response rates were slower among these individuals.
Cecile A. Marczinski, Ph.D., the study's co-author, said that there needs to be a better understanding "in regard to content labeling and possible health warnings" about highly caffeinated beverages.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 34 percent of individuals who are 18 to 24 years old consume energy drinks.
You can opt-out at any time. We protect your information like a mother hen. We will not sell or rent your email address to anyone for any reason.
