(WKBW/ABC News) They promise to boost energy, stamina, and concentration, but energy drinks get most of their punch from high levels of caffeine and that can be a problem, especially in the young, many of whom are hooked on these beverages.
While the federal government limits caffeine content in soft drinks, which are classified as food, no limits are placed on energy drinks, which are considered dietary supplements.
Researchers have also found an association between energy drinks and things like seizures, diabetes, heart abnormalities, and behavioral disorders.
Since energy drinks have no therapeutic benefit in children-- and may actually put some of them at risk-- researchers say the drinks need to be better studied and better regulated for some consumers.
