Beware of these drinks!
Scientists warn that energy drinks and caffeinated sodas are a gateway for children to start drinking alcohol.
12punto
According to a new study, children who drink caffeinated sodas are twice as likely to try alcohol before the age of 11.
Data from 2,000 children in the US were examined; it was revealed that children who consume energy drinks are more impulsive and have poorer memory.
Lead author of the study Mina Kwon stated: “Daily consumption of caffeinated sodas in children is a precursor to substance use in the near future.”
Previous research had shown that adolescents and young adults are more likely to start drinking alcohol early if they consume caffeine every day. The study also examined the likelihood of children aged 9 to 10 who consume caffeinated sodas trying alcohol within a year.
The results indicated that substances in caffeinated sodas could affect young brains, increasing the likelihood of them having problems with alcohol later in life.
Professor Woo-Young Ahn stated: “It can be said that those who frequently consume caffeinated sodas have a higher risk of starting substance use in the future. There is no consensus on a safe dose of caffeine for children, and some children may be more vulnerable than others to the negative effects associated with frequent caffeine consumption.”