Osteopathic Medical Profession Supports Education about Potential Dangers of Energy Drinks

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Jul 20, 2013, 08:17 ET

CHICAGO, July 20, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- While energy drinks are a popular beverage choice, particularly among young adults, many people might not be aware of the potential health issues their favorite drink could cause. The American Osteopathic Association's House of Delegates voted today to support community awareness and education regarding the potential effects of consuming energy drinks.

Most popular energy drinks contain elevated amounts of caffeine, which, when consumed in large quantities, can produce detrimental health effects, including dehydration, anxiety and digestive problems. Another potential danger is mixing alcohol with energy drinks. This combination can lead to a greater risk of abuse since the stimulants in energy drinks make people feel more alert, masking the effects of consuming alcohol by making the effects of alcohol seem less apparent.

"While having one energy drink is probably fine, consuming several energy drinks over a short period of time could lead to health issues since most energy drinks have more caffeine than a serving of coffee or soda," says William J. Burke, DO, an AOA board-certified family physician. "That is why moderation is so important no matter what food or drink you consume."

The policy also encourages physicians to increase screening for energy drink consumption by talking to their patients about energy drinks during examinations.

About the House of Delegates
The AOA's House of Delegates, comprised of more than 500 delegates representing osteopathic state medical associations, specialty societies, interns, residents and students from throughout the country, meets annually in July to set organizational policies and elect new officers.

About the American Osteopathic Association
The American Osteopathic Association (AOA) proudly represents its professional family of more than 104,000 osteopathic physicians (DOs) and osteopathic medical students; promotes public health; encourages scientific research; serves as the primary certifying body for DOs; is the accrediting agency for osteopathic medical schools; and has federal authority to accredit hospitals and other health care facilities. More information on DOs/osteopathic medicine can be found at www.osteopathic.org.

SOURCE American Osteopathic Association