Combining energy drinks with alcohol is gaining popularity. According to a report published by the Marin Institute in 2007, 34 percent of adults ages 18 to 24 report regular energy drink consumption. Beverage companies have monopolized upon this trend by creating alcoholic energy drinks and by promoting mixed drinks that blend the two. While additional research is needed regarding the impact of caffeine on alcohol intoxication, experts warn that the combination raises risks.
Reduced Perception of Intoxication
People who consume energy drinks with alcohol may expect that the stimulant effect of the energy drink will counteract the depressant nature of alcohol and result in less "drunkenness." In reality, researchers at the Marin Institute indicate that people who drink the two substances together typically do not experience reduced intoxication. They do, however, perceive themselves as less intoxicated. This poses many risks as a person who deems himself less affected by alcohol may decide to drive or partake in other high-risk behaviors while intoxicated.
Increased Risk for Injury
The fact that alcohol on its own increases a person's risk for injury is common knowledge. Adding stimulants to the equation can increase this risk. According to a report by National Public Radio (NPR) health writer, Allison Aubrey, in February 2008, researchers at Wake Forest University found that 28 percent of students partake in alcohol combined with energy drinks in any given month. Students who consume these dual drinks show higher prevalence of personal injury. Though the precise reason for this increase is unknown, it is thought to be caused by either the combined effects of stimulants and alcohol or the false belief that caffeine reduces a person's level of intoxication.
Increased Risk for Dependency and Toxicity
Both caffeine and alcohol can negatively affect a person's emotional well-being. Energy drinks contain caffeine and additional stimulants, such as guarana, a stimulant herb, which can have a dramatic impact on a person's emotional well-being, particularly when consumed in excess. According to research published in the journal, Drug and Alcohol Dependence (DAD) in January 2009, caffeine toxicity, a disorder characterized by nervousness, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, tremors and agitation, has grown in affiliation with energy drink popularity. Since energy drinks often fail to list specific content of caffeine and other stimulants, and since many partakers remain unaware as to appropriate verses excessive intake, excessive caffeine intake is common. In some cases, excessive caffeine intake increases a person's desire for alcohol, as the person may remain more alert and drink for longer time periods. This practice increases risk for alcohol intoxication.
When alcohol and excessive caffeine intake are combined, risk for dependence and emotional problems may further increase. According to the DAD study, people prone to alcohol or nicotine addiction may also hold greater risk for caffeine dependency. Since alcohol commonly interferes with a person's emotional wellness, sleeping habits and, in worst cases, develops into alcoholism, an addiction to both caffeine and alcohol may pose additional risks.
Member Comments