Energy Drink Addiction – Chasing the High
Energy Drink Addiction – Chasing the High
We live in a volatile time. We are a society addicted to more. Every time one turns around there is another product that has been developed with a primary goal of addicting the consumer. We hunger for the quick fix from easy weight loss without lifestyle changes or exercise, the quick pain reliever neglecting the much needed healing process, to the quick energy drink to take care of poor sleep patterns, poor eating habits, obsessive compulsive behaviors and the inability to stop, breathe, and relax.
In November, 2011 the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration released a new report that revealed a drastic increase in emergency room visits due to energy drinks. The report indicated that energy drinks are flavored beverages that contain high levels of stimulants including caffeine. They are marketed to the young, and 50 percent of these drinks are consumed by children, adolescents and young adults leading to an energy drink addiction.
There was a time when coffee was considered off limits to children as it would rob their bodies of nutrients and hinder growth. Those days are gone. These dangerous drinks are sold everywhere for anyone to buy. The majority of those consuming energy drinks are young people.
44 percent of those that were admitted to emergency rooms involving these energy drinks also consumed alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit drugs. The age range of this group is 18-25 year olds. Another interesting piece of the picture: three quarters of this group are young men.
Finally, without the dire combination of alcohol and drugs with the energy -arrhythmias, hypertension, dehydration and other serious health conditions. The combination of alcohol, prescription drugs or illegal drugs provokes serious personal health risks as well as risks to others.
