Energy Drinks May Promote Risky Behavior

new study links super-caffeinated beverages to substance abuse, violence and reckless sexuality

By Gregory Mone
Posted 05.29.2008 at 4:48 pm

Full Throttle: Photo by Coca-Cola Company

Energy drinks like Monster, Full Throttle, Red Bull and others account for more than $3 billion in annual sales in the U.S., and roughly one-third of people between the ages of twelve and 24 say they suck them down on a regular basis. The beverages have been linked to a number of negative health effects, but now an addiction researcher at the University of Buffalo has published a report demonstrating that excessive consumption is also correlated to risky behavior such as unprotected sex, substance abuse and violence.

Of course, this doesn't necessarily mean that the drinks cause the behaviors. But the researcher suggests that seeing their kids binging on the drinks should be a red flag for parents. The study also found that those who mix energy drinks with liquor were more likely to engage in or be subject to aggressive sexual behavior. So, stay away from the Red Bull and vodkas, kids.

NY Times