Emerging Topics

2012 March 9 Canadian Beverage Association Responds to CSPI re 4-MEI

Signature_empty_thumb Canadian Beverage Association Responds to CSPI re 4-MEI  4-MEI is not a threat to human...

Energy Drinks in Canada Brochure

Brochure  Energy Drinks in Canada What are they? Who are they...

Letters to The Editor

2012 March 19 -- Bottled and tap water can co-exist

Ist1_4765169-bottles-of-water_1_ I read with interest the story "Bottled water to be phased out at county facilities,"...

2011 July 20 -- Sports, energy drinks shouldn't be confused

Sports_drink_istock_000010757924xlarge       In a recent wire story "How to beat the heat; STAYING SAFE"  Dr. Amber...

Do energy drinks provide alertness?

Energy drinks can have a "pick-me-up" quality. Several studies have shown that energy drinks may enhance mental performance and alertness primarily due to the caffeine content.

 

How many energy drinks should an individual drink per day?

Like most foods and beverages, the key to healthful consumption is variety and moderation. According to the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, "there is no human requirement for caffeine in the diet.  Moderate caffeine intake, however, is not associated with any health risk."

 

How can I find out how much caffeine is in an energy drink?

Consistent with federal regulations, beverage companies list caffeine content per serving size on the label.

 

Do energy drinks contain more caffeine than other beverages?

The caffeine content of energy drinks varies according to the brand.  While most energy drinks have more caffeine than soft drinks, they are generally equal to or less than the amount in drip coffee on a per ounce basis.

 

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Typical caffeine levels in popular products:

 

Product                                           Approximate Range(mg)

Coffee (8oz drip)                                    104-192

Tea (8oz brewed)                                      20-90

Iced tea (8oz)                                            9-50

Soft drinks (8oz)                                       20-40

Dark chocolate (1oz)                                   5-35

Cocoa beverage (8oz)                                 3-32

Milk chocolate (1oz)                                    1-15

Energy Drinks contain caffeine typically in the amount of 60-100 mg per serving

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Is caffeine addictive?

Caffeine is not an addictive substance.  Most people who consume caffeine maintain a relatively consistent level of intake. While caffeine is considered a mild stimulant, recent studies have shown that those who enjoy caffeinated products are able to reduce or stop their caffeine consumption without difficulty.  Some individuals may experience adverse reactions such as headaches when suddenly abstaining from caffeine, but these feelings tend to be mild and pass within a few days.