Red Bull. Rockstar. Killer Buzz. Full Throttle. These are just a few of the many new caffeine-packed energy drinks that, despite medical warnings, students continue to crack open for that extra boost of energy so that they can study hard and party harder.
Medical experts worry about the hidden dangers behind this new rage that is sweeping across college campuses. Not only is it suspected that these drinks are falsely advertising this “special boost,” but also the high doses of caffeine can cause dangerous levels of dehydration, according to an article from The Seattle Times entitled “Medical Experts warn of unhealthy buzz touting energy drinks.”
“These drinks are marketing ploys,” Mark Kantor, professor of consumer sciences and nutrition at the University of Maryland says in the article. “I’m not aware of any scientific data that they do what they say they’re going to do.”
What these beverages really do is provide a high dose of caffeine that causes major dehydration and increases blood pressure. It also produces a short-lived false feeling of an energy boost, according to the article.
Additionally, some experts worry that some of the other herbal ingredients have not been adequately researched and tested.
Director of Wellness and Prevention Jeanne DiMuzio worries particularly about students mixing these energy drinks with alcohol, because energy drinks are stronger stimulants than colas.
“Caffeine and alcohol are two of the most aggressive dehydrating substances we consume, so a student who combines the two is asking [his or her] body to handle a stimulant and a depressant along with excessive dehydration, which could always involve a health risk,” said DiMuzio.
Yet liquor and energy drink mixes have become a staple at bars and clubs that cater to the college crowd. Vodka and energy drink combos, as well as Jäger Bombs, which are a mix of Jägermeister and Red Bull, have become staples at bars and clubs.
A bartender at the Sea Grape, who prefers to remain anonymous, agreed that energy drink mixes are in great demand.
“Yeah, it’s probably the most popular drink here” he said.
Fairfield students do not have to travel to a bar or even the local grocery store to get these caffeine-crammed beverages. Rock Star is available right in the Stag. On Friday, free samples of this drink were even given out in the cafeteria.
“In my mind, energy drinks can’t be that much worse than coffee. They give me a boost that I need especially when tired or getting ready to go out,” said Lauren Tuthill ’08.
Studies have found that the amount of caffeine in just half a cup of coffee each day is enough to trigger a physical dependency, according to an article by George Studeville for National Geographic. Some doctors even suggest this addiction should be categorized as a mental disorder.
With this in mind, it is no wonder that DiMuzio suggests an alternative energy booster.
“The best choice for students that think coffee, colas and energy drinks are the best pick-me-up is, in reality, good old ice water,” said DiMuzio.
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