According to recent data released by the US Poison Centers, calls to US poison centers regarding children consuming energy drinks will increase by approximately 20% by 2023.
The sharp increase in the number of calls is all the more shocking because the number has remained relatively stable in recent years.
The US Poison Center said there will be 2,834 calls in 2023, up from 2,323 calls in 2022.
Energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster contain much higher amounts of caffeine than regular soda or coffee — which could be dangerous for kids.
food drug administration and this American Academy of Pediatrics It is advisable that children – and even teens – avoid pumped beverages to prevent caffeine-related complications, including caffeine poisoning and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
But children often drink brightly coloured beverages by mistake.
In 2023, nearly 48% of calls for children drinking energy drinks were reported as unintentional drinking, with the rate nearly doubled for children between the ages of 6 and 12.
Possible symptoms of a caffeine overdose include increased heart rate, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, restlessness, and rapid breathing.
The FDA considers 400 milligrams of caffeine safe for adults—which is the equivalent of about two to three cups of average coffee. A can of Monster Energy contains 160 milligrams, and Bang has 300 milligrams.
