Energy Drinks Linked to Heart Problems in Teenagers and Young Adults
Energy drinks have become very popular with young people because of their stimulating effects. One Monster Energy drink has 240 mgs of caffeine per serving. However, the real caffeine content is likely much higher because other stimulants in the beverage are not listed as caffeine. Considering that the maximum recommended caffeine dose for children is 45-85 mgs per day, one energy drink packs a punch. Teens who drink several of them at one time are at risk of developing heart problems. Teens who drink them regularly over a long period of time are also at risk. The danger is even greater for those with underlying heart conditions.
Caffeine Overdose
Caffeine overdose is a very real problem that can lead to multiple serious health problems. Some of these side effects include irregular heart beat, heart attack, and even death. This is especially true for young people. In fact, a study published in a 2011 issue of Pediatrics revealed that of the 5,448 caffeine overdoses in 2007, 46% were in people under the age of 19.
A recent high-profile lawsuit shed some light on the connection between energy drinks and serious health complications. The family of Anais Fournier alleged that Fournier’s fatal cardiac arrest resulted from her consumption of two 24-ounce Monster Energy drinks in a 24-hour period. Unfortunately, because energy drinks are considered ‘dietary food supplements’ rather than actual food, the FDA does not require labels to list exact amounts of caffeine. Sodas (which are considered food) are limited to 71 mgs of caffeine per serving. These limits do not apply to energy drinks. The FDA also prohibits sodas from having more than 0.02 percent caffeine – energy drinks are excluded from this requirement. Some energy drinks to watch out for include: Monster, Red Bull, Rock Star, NOS, Full Throttle, Venum, and 5 Hour Energy.
Failure to Warn
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against energy drink companies, claiming they failed to warn consumers of the potential risks. People with underlying heart conditions, such as rapid or irregular heart beat, are at an increased risk of serious injury and death when drinking energy drinks. However, even healthy individuals, young and old, are susceptible to health risks associated with energy drinks. The Canadian Journal of Cardiology recently published a study suggesting that youth with no underlying heart issues may also be at risk.
The Goldwater Law Firm – Nationwide Injury Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured after having energy drinks, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced injury attorney as soon as possible. When companies place profits above the health and safety of the public, they must be held accountable for their actions. Companies such as Monster Beverage failed to warn consumers about the risks involved with their products. If you have been injured, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related expenses. Don’t go through this alone. Contact the Goldwater Law Firm today for a free consultation.