Energy-drink consumption in college students and associated factors

Energy drink consumption among medical students in Jordan - prevalence, attitudes, and associated factors: a cross-sectional study

Background

Energy drinks (ED) are popular beverages that contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other supplements, such as vitamins, which are marketed to enhance mental alertness and physical performance. Studies have shown that energy drink consumption is prevalent among medical students. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence, attitudes, and factors associated with energy drink consumption among medical students in Jordan.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students from six public universities in Jordan. A total of 307 students were included in the study, and data were collected using an expert-validated questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results

The study found that 50% of the sample had consumed ED, half of them started consuming them at the age of 16-18, and learned about them from friends. The primary reasons for consuming ED were to stay awake at night and the majority of them increase their consumption during exams to increase alertness. Regular energy drink consumption was significantly associated with being a student at the university located in the south governorate of Jordan (P=0.021), living alone (P=0.000), drinking alcohol (P=0.049), drinking coffee daily (P=0.043), and consuming more than 10 cans of soft drinks weekly (P=0.001). However, sex, age, academic achievement, and smoking status had no significant association with regular energy drink consumption. Students with regular energy drink consumption experienced daytime sleepiness, decreased concentration, fatigue, and reduced performance more than students with no regular energy drink consumption.

Conclusion

The prevalence of energy drink consumption among medical students in Jordan is high, with factors such as social influences, lifestyle behaviors, and academic pressure being significant contributors. This study highlights the need for interventions to promote healthy behaviors and raise awareness about the potential harms of ED among medical students.

Prevalence of energy drink consumption world-wide: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The increasing market for energy drinks (EDs) in recent years, as well as the health risks caused by their consumption, prompt calls to estimate the prevalence of ED use among different countries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the prevalence of ED use in different continents and age groups.

METHOD

We searched two databases (i.e. PubMed and PsycInfo) on 31 March 2023 to identify studies reporting the prevalence of ED use. A total of 192 studies (196 distinct samples; n = 1 120 613; 53.37% males) from the United States, Europe, Asia, Oceania and Africa were included in the analysis. A random-effects model was applied to estimate the overall pooled prevalence at several time-periods. Subgroup analyses were performed to provide prevalence based on continent and age group. The quality of articles was assessed using Joana Brigg's Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklist. Measurements included prevalence of ED use (i.e. life-time, past 12 months, past 30 days, past 7 days and daily use), continent and age group (i.e. children, adolescents, young adults and adults).

RESULTS

The life-time ED use world-wide-pooled prevalence was estimated to be 54.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 48.8-60.6; I2  = 99.80], 43.4% (95% CI = 36.1-50.6; I2  = 99.92) in the past 12 months, 32.3% (95% CI = 28.8-35.8; I2  = 99.82) in the past 30 days, 21.6% (95% CI = 18.7-24.5; I2  = 99.95) in the past 7 days and 8.82% (95% CI = 6.3-11.4; I2  = 99.95) daily ED use. Subgroups analyses showed significant differences in ED life-time use within age groups (P = 0.002) and continents (P = 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

The world-wide prevalence of energy drink use appears to be high, particularly among adolescents and young adults.

Temporal context effects and energy drink consumption: the moderating role of behavioral status

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the factors that impact the effectiveness of energy drink-related health messages. Specifically, this study examined how behavioral status moderates the effects of the temporal contexts described in messages related to energy drink consumption.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 823 college students enrolled in a northeastern university participated in this study.

METHODS

A 2 (temporal context: proximate vs. distant) × 3 (behavioral status: non-initiator vs. former consumer vs. current consumer) experiment was conducted.

RESULTS

Proximate context messages were more effective for non-initiators and current consumers in influencing descriptive norms and attitudes respectively, whereas distant context messages were marginally more effective for former consumers in influencing descriptive norms.

CONCLUSION

The findings contribute to health promotion research by advancing scholarly understanding of the various behavioral status-dependent psychological effects of temporal context. Moreover, the results have implications for designing effective health campaign messages targeted to college students.

Consumption of Energy Drinks among Italian University students: a cross-sectional multicenter study

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the caffeinated Energy Drinks (EDs) consumption among a large sample of Italian undergraduates and its association with some of the major lifestyle risk factors.

METHODS

Students attending twelve public Italian universities were involved between October 2021 and May 2022. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, ED consumption, and on health-related behaviors of participants was collected by the use of a web-based questionnaire.

RESULTS

A total of 2165 students participated in the study and 15.2% of them reported having used caffeinated EDs in the last six months, mainly once a month (41.5%). In comparison with non-users, ED users showed a higher proportion of males (p < 0.001) and a higher father's educational level (p = 0.003), came mainly from Northern universities (p = 0.004) and life sciences degree courses (p < 0.001). Besides, ED users reported higher BMI values (p = 0.003), more particular dietary regimens (p < 0.001), higher levels of weekly moderate-vigorous physical activity (p < 0.001) and participation in sports (p < 0.001) and in team sports (p = 0.003), and higher proportion of smokers (p < 0.001) and alcohol drinkers (p = 0.005). ED use was negatively related with female gender (OR 0.546; 95% CI 0.374-0.798), the Mediterranean diet (OR 0.587; 95% CI 0.362-0.951) and coming from the center of Italy (OR 0.500; 95% CI 0.275-0.909) and positively associated with tobacco smoke (OR 1.712; 95% CI 1.176-2.492) and participation in a team sport (OR 1.686; 95% CI 1.051-2.707).

CONCLUSION

These findings could encourage figures engaged in education to increase the students' awareness on this issue in order to prevent the excessive use of EDs and associated unhealthy behaviors, especially in the most interested subgroups.

Consumption patterns of energy drinks in university students: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Energy drink (ED) use is promoted to stimulate mental and/or physical activity, and their popularity has increased over the years, especially among young people. However, the use of EDs is often improper, and can induce adverse effects for human health. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the literature to characterize the prevalence of ED consumption and motivations for use among undergraduate students. Furthermore, adverse effects and health-related behaviors associated with ED consumption were explored.

METHODS

This systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines, and the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were used for data research.

RESULTS

A total of 71 articles published between 2007 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The estimated overall prevalence of ED consumption was 42.9% in undergraduate students (95% confidence interval, 42.5%-43.3%), with significant heterogeneity among studies (Q test: P < 0.001; I² = 99.4%). The main reasons for use were engagement in study, projects or examinations, stay awake or alert, and physical activity/sport engagement. Sleep disturbance and increased heart rate or blood pressure were the most commonly reported adverse effects. ED consumption was frequently associated with alcohol use and smoking.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the inappropriate use of EDs and related unhealthy behaviors should be identified early, and addressed through effective educational interventions.<END ABSTRACT>.

Erosive Potential and Sugar Content of Popular Beverages: A Double Whammy for Dentition

Objectives

This study aims to identify the pH level and subsequently the erosive potential of beverages including their sugar content.

Materials and Methods

Beverages were purchased from a local convenience store, and some of the beverages were freshly prepared. The acidity of each beverage was identified using a calibrated pH meter. The pH was obtained in triplicate, and the results were expressed in average values with standard deviations. The pH values were then used to determine their erosive potential and the sugar content was obtained from the packaging and recorded.

Results

A total of 167 beverages were purchased and categorized. The beverages were categorized into 15 groups: milk tea, hawker drinks, instant drinks, fresh fruit juices, milk, energy drinks, designer coffee, soda, canned drinks, cultured milk, vegetable juices, cordials, bottled fruit drinks, tea, and mineral water. The pH value ranges from 2.65 to 7.85. Seven beverages (4.2%) were classified as extremely erosive, 53 beverages (31.1%) were classified as erosive, and 36 beverages (21.6%) were classified as minimally erosive. In total, 57.5% of the beverages were potentially erosive, and most of the soda and energy drinks were erosive. The highest sugar content per 100 g was BOH Teh Tarik Original (71.8 g), whereas the highest sugar content per serving was Carabao energy drink (10.8 g).

Conclusion

High sugar content and low acidic content of beverages could have a negative impact on the dentition. An intervention is required from a public health perspective to regulate the consumption of sweetened and flavored beverages.

Prevalence of Dry Eye Disease Among Medical Students and Its Association with Sleep Habits, Use of Electronic Devices and Caffeine Consumption: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire

Introduction

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common and multifactorial disease of the ocular surface which causes visual disturbance and feelings of discomfort among patients. The prevalence rate among medical students is an important issue to consider. This study investigates the relationship between caffeine consumption, sleeping habits, use of electronic devices, and DED among a convenient sample of medical students in Jordan.

Methods

This cross-sectional online survey enrolled medical students from all six medical schools in Jordan. The questionnaire, which was shared via social media platforms, assessed socio-demographics, caffeine consumption amounts and patterns, sleep quality, and the use of electronic devices and their relation to ocular discomfort, DED, and related symptoms. The ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire was also administered to quantify the symptoms of DED.

Results

A total of 1223 students participated in this study (RR=24.46%); 64% were females, and 43% were in their clinical placement years. Of the participants, 317 (25.92%) had normal eyes, and 906 (74.08%) had symptomatic DED. Of the students, 1206 (98.6%) used electronic devices directly before bed, and only 399 (32.62%) used blue-light-protective glasses. Lower DED risk was linked to male gender (OR=0.535, 95% CI 0.392-0.73, p <0.01), clinical years of medical school (OR=0.564, 95% CI 0.424-0.75, p<0.01). Poor sleep quality corresponded to more incidence of DED, regardless of sleeping for 5-6 hours (OR=3.046, 95% CI 1.299-7.139, p=0.01) or for less than 5 hours (OR=3.942, 95% CI 1.824-8.519, p<0.01). Also, caffeine consumption only marginally affected its incidence, but the results were statistically insignificant.

Conclusion

Female gender, basic science years, and spending more than 6 hours looking at screens were significantly associated with symptomatic DED. Caffeine consumption did not pose any significant risk to the incidence of DED.

In vitro surface and color changes of tooth-colored restorative materials after sport and energy drink cyclic immersions

BACKGROUND

There has not been any research conducted on surface properties and color changes from sport and energy drinks on bulk-fill resin composite, nanohybrid resin composite and glass ionomer restorative material. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of sport and energy drinks on surface hardness, roughness and color changes of bulk-fill resin composite, nanohybrid resin composite and glass ionomer restorative material, and to also evaluate the acidity and titratable acidity of the drinks.

METHODS

One hundred and forty-seven specimens of each tooth-colored restorative material were prepared in a polytetrafluoroethylene mold (10 mm. in diameter and 2 mm. in thickness). Before immersion, baseline data of hardness, roughness, and color value were recorded. Each material was divided into 3 groups for sport drink, energy drink, and deionized water (serving as a control). The specimens were immersed in a storage agent for 5 s, then in artificial saliva for 5 s alternately for 24 cycles, and then stored in artificial saliva for 24 h. The immersion cycle was repeated for 14 days and hardness, roughness and color values were measured at 7 and 14 days.

RESULTS

After immersion, the glass ionomer restorative material had statistically less hardness, more roughness and more color changes than the others (P < 0.05). Energy drink groups statistically caused more surface and color changes than sport drink groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Sport and energy drinks affected hardness, roughness, and color changes in all the tooth-colored restorative materials evaluated.

The implications of alcohol mixed with energy drinks from medical and socio-legal standpoints

Co-ingestion of energy drinks and alcohol has long been in practice and has been poorly regulated despite a growing body of literature of their potential negative health impacts. Co-ingestion of energy drinks with alcohol has multiple counter-active effects such as reduction of body sway, fatigue and sedative effects induced by alcohol, along with increased subjective feeling of alertness, which may lead to increased binge-drinking, intoxication, decreased perception of intoxication, dehydration, and alcohol poisoning. Adding energy drinks to alcohol may also have synergistic effects in causing alcohol dependency and addiction. The association between caffeine, a common active ingredient in energy drinks, and alcohol is relatively well defined, however association with other active ingredients such as taurine, niacin, and pyridoxine, is less understood, pointing to a gap in our knowledge regarding this practice. Nonetheless, the current associations between AMED (Alcohol Mixed with Energy Drinks) and risky behavior secondary to intoxication and cases of alcohol poisoning have led various national governing bodies to regulate this practice. This review highlights the potential effects of AMED on human physiology based on what is known from human and animal models, and sheds light on specific biochemical interactions between alcohol and active ingredients found in energy drinks; Caffeine, Taurine, and Glucuronolactone. The review also touches on the regulation of this practice around the world, and the impact it has on its users, and points researchers to gaps in our knowledge on the interactions between alcohol and EDs and the full extent of their effects.

Prevalence and factors associated with energy drink consumption amongst undergraduate students in Kano, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Overconsumption of energy drinks (EDs) is a global public health concern because of its potential health consequence.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with ED consumption amongst undergraduate students in Kano, Northwest Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to study 381 undergraduate students, selected using a two-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and analysed using SPSS version 22.0 with P ≤ 0.05 considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

: A total of 381 students were studied. The mean ± standard deviation age of the students was 23.1 ± 3.6 years with male-to-female distribution of about 1:1. Period prevalence of 67.0% within the last 30 days and point prevalence of 23.9% were found. The commonly used ED was Power Horse 44.6%. Up to 59.6% consumed EDs to boost their physical and mental capacity. Odds of ever-consuming EDs were lower in female undergraduates (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.3-0.7) and higher in Hausa/Fulani ethnic group (aOR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.04-2.7). Amongst those who were currently consuming EDs, being 24 years or less (aOR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.04-3.4) and coming from the Hausa/Fulani tribe (aOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.4-4.4) were associated with increased consumption. Male undergraduates (aOR: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1-0.4) and students who were residing on campus were less likely to be current consumers of EDs (aOR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3-0.9).

CONCLUSION

Consumption of EDs is increasing amongst students and therefore relevant government agencies should ensure regulated advertisement and consumption to avert the health consequences.

The Relationship Between Energy Drink Consumption, Caffeine Content, and Nutritional Knowledge Among College Students

We sought to determine which demographic characteristics influence energy drink consumption habits and to examine whether caffeine content and knowledge of human nutrition affect college students' decisions to consume these beverages. We used an online survey to ask 265 college students, who did not participate in a varsity sport, to complete a survey consisting of demographic questions, the General Knowledge Questionnaire for adults, and questions about energy drink consumption habits. We found, overall, that 23.1% of our sample used energy drinks. When compared to non-consumers (76.9%), users had a significantly lower GPA, were older, and preferred drinks with a higher caffeine content. Users reported that they consumed these drinks because they wanted to feel more alert and they enjoyed the taste, even though they reported adverse effects such as trouble sleeping, shaking and tremors, and stomachaches. Knowledge of human nutrition did not affect users' choice to consume these drinks. Although the majority of college students do not consume energy drinks, room for improvement remains to curb the use of these caffeinated beverages amongst college students.

Health and safety risks affecting part-time nursing students

Background

Professional nurses who are employed full-time can study their postgraduate programmes part-time to add to the basic qualification they obtained through relevant institutions of higher education like universities or colleges. Although there are advantages for part-time study such as improvement of qualifications, enhancement of personal development and increased chance of promotion, there are disadvantages as well, which includes keeping a job, attending to family and social responsibilities, time management to ensure that studying is done after work or in-between work and other activities, attending to assignments and complying with the requirements to acquire the qualification.

Aim

This study aimed to explore health and safety risks faced by nurses who work and study part-time.

Setting

The study was conducted at a university in Gauteng province, South Africa. Nurses who undertake part-time studies at this university were the focus of study.

Method

The research design used in the study was an exploratory, quantitative method that was contextual in nature. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that comprised of demographical and health and safety aspects. Data were analysed by means of descriptive statistics using the Statistics package for Social Sciences version 26.

Results

Research findings indicated that students who study part-time experience health and safety risks such as fatigue (n = 86; 49%), stress (n = 95; 54%), sleep disorders (n = 60; 34%), poor eating habits (n = 123; 70%), abuse of caffeine (n = 91; 52%) and are prone to road accidents (n = 54; 31%).

Conclusion

Nurses who work and study part-time need support from their employers and families. Employers should grant study leave as a way of support.

Use of Energy Drinks Among Children and Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: Energy drinks are widely consumed among young people, although they have serious side effects. This study is intended to describe the relations between variables such as socio-demographic characteristics, daily habits, consumption of energy drinks, and its frequency among participants. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive research is a survey of consecutive patients aged between 10 and 18 years who admitted to the Pediatric Emergency Outpatient Clinic of Diyarbakır Pediatric Diseases Hospital between November 1, 2019 and April 30, 2020. Note that the frequency distribution and averages were found and categorical data were compared using the chi-square test while numerical data were compared using the independent sample t test. Results: Note that 503 participants were included in the study; the mean age of the participants was 16.0±1.9 years, 59.4% (n=299), of which were male. Moreover, 64.2% (n=323), of the participants consumed energy drinks with 65.3% (n=211) consuming one can per week; 45.5% (n=147) of participants consumed energy drinks out of curiosity. Moreover, as the level of education and income of the participants and the parents decreased, the consumption of energy drinks increased, and this was statistically significant. Alcohol, smoking, and substance use increased the rate of energy drinks consumption, which was found to be statistically significant. Conclusion: Educational programs should be planned to inform the whole society, and especially children and adolescents with low socioeconomic status and educational background about the damages to health caused by energy drinks consumption. Moreover, it is necessary to review the legal regulations for the sale and marketing of energy drinks. Keywords: energy drinks, consumption, adolescents

Effect of caffeinated energy drinks on the structure of hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 and dentate gyrus of adult male albino rats

Energy drinks are available worldwide and frequently consumed to increase energy level and compensate lack of sleep. Energy drinks consumers aim to improve their cognitive functions. Red Bull is the most popular energy drink consumed in Egypt. However, the link between the impact of energy drinks on the structure of hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) and dentate gyrus (DG), a highly vulnerable brain regions to various insults, has not yet documented. To study the effect of energy drinks on structure of hippocampal CA1 and DG of adult male albino rats. Twenty one adult male albino rats were divided into three groups; group I control group, groups II and III received Red Bull, with a dose of 3.75 ml/kg/day orally using gastric tube for four and eight consecutive weeks respectively. At the end of the experiment, brains were dissected and hippocampal specimens were processed for histopathological and immunohistochemical studies. Histopathological examination of hippocampal sections in group II revealed vacuoles, decrease thickness of pyramidal cell layer with irregular dark or ghost nuclei. However, changes were more severe in group III with cracks in pyramidal cell layer, massive vacuolation and signet ring cells. Moreover, star shaped astrocytes and glial fibrillary acidic protein immuno-reactivity were more abundant in group III than in group II. Caffeinated energy drinks produced neurodegenerative changes and reactive astrocytosis in hippocampal CA1 and DG of adult male albino rats. These changes were duration-dependent being more severe in longer duration of intake.

Energy drinks consumption and perceptions among University Students in Beirut, Lebanon: A mixed methods approach

Background

Energy drinks (ED) are caffeine- and sugar-rich beverages with other ingredients that are marketed for their energy-boosting and performance-enhancing effects. The consumption of these drinks, with and without alcohol, is dramatically increasing worldwide, despite the reported side effects and potential harms to consumers. Few studies, to date, have explored the perceptions and experiences of young adults towards these beverages.

Objective

The present study aimed to explore the consumption patterns and correlates of ED consumption, as well as the perceptions and experiences of university students in Lebanon towards these beverages.

Methods

A sequential explanatory mixed-methods approach was adopted. Data collection was conducted in two private universities in Beirut, Lebanon. A self-administered 36-item quantitative survey was first used to explore the prevalence and correlates of ED consumption among a convenience sample of university students (n = 226). The survey included questions related to socio-demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and other lifestyle behaviors, including physical activity of university students. The subsequent qualitative phase consisted of focus group discussions (FGD) conducted to further examine the perceptions and experiences of university students towards ED. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were conducted using survey data, whereas the transcribed FGD were analyzed thematically.

Results

A total of 226 university students completed the survey. Results showed that 45% of survey respondents consumed ED at least once in their life (ever consumers), among which 30% reported consumption of ED mixed with alcohol (AmED). Adjusting for socio-demographic and anthropometric characteristics, coffee and sports drinks consumption were significantly associated with ED (OR = 2.45, 95% CI = 1.20, 5.00, and OR = 4.88, 95%CI = 2.41, 9.88, respectively). In addition, physically active participants were 1.89 times (95%CI = 1.01, 3.51) more likely to consume ED compared to their inactive counterparts. During the qualitative phase, a total of six FGD were conducted with 29 university students, who reported consuming ED at least once per month. Three main themes were derived reflecting individual-, interpersonal/social- and environmental-level factors affecting ED consumption among university students. These themes were further supported by eight subthemes, including: perceived benefits of ED, experienced side effects, misinformation about content of ED, peer pressure and social image, as well as affordability and accessibility of ED.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the need for public health policies and programs to curb the growing public health phenomenon of ED consumption amongst university students. Such programs should consider the multi-level factors affecting ED consumption at the individual, interpersonal/social, and environmental levels, including educational campaigns on ED potential harms, regulating ED content and labeling, as well as restricting sales and marketing of these beverages, especially among young consumers.

Motivations Influencing Caffeine Consumption Behaviors among College Students in Korea: Associations with Sleep Quality

Caffeinated beverages are a part of daily life. Caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, energy drinks, and soft drinks are easy to purchase and are frequently consumed by young college students. Moreover, smoking influences the consumption of caffeinated beverages. The concentration of caffeine in these products is an attractive factor for individuals that desire the effects of caffeine; however, abusing such products may lead to poor sleep quality. The motivations that drive caffeinated beverage consumption were investigated in this study through a survey. Self-reported questionnaires were distributed on campus to students enrolled at a university in Korea. The motivations of the students for consuming each caffeinated beverage and their sleep quality were investigated. The results of exploratory factor analysis showed the motivations for caffeinated beverage consumption were alertness, taste, mood, socialization, health benefits, and habit. The motivations for consuming each caffeinated beverage product were different. For instance, coffee consumption was motivated by a desire for alertness (B = .107, SE = .049, t = 2.181, p < 0.05) and by habit (B = .345, SE = .046, t = 7.428, p < 0.001), whereas tea consumption was influenced by socialization (B = .142, SE = .060, t = 2.357, p < 0.05). Energy drink consumption was motivated by a desire for alertness (B = .100, SE = .034, t = 2.966, p < 0.01) and health benefits (B = .120, SE = .051, t = 2.345, p < 0.05), while the consumption of soft drinks was not motivated by any specific factors. Caffeinated beverage consumption did not show a significant relationship with sleep quality, although the general sleep quality of the respondents was poor. Smoking status showed significant differences in coffee and tea consumption as well as sleep quality. Smokers had a higher intake of coffee and a lower intake of tea than non-smokers. No interaction effect between smoking and coffee on sleep quality was found. Labeling detailing the amount of caffeine in products is necessary and a cautionary statement informing consumers that smoking cigarettes enhances the effects of caffeine should be included.

Biogenic Amines in Alcohol-Free Beverages

Biogenic amines are ubiquitous bioactive compounds that are synthesized by living organisms and perform essential functions for their metabolism. In the human diet, their excessive intake can cause food poisoning. In food, especially in alcohol-free beverages, biogenic amines can be synthesized by enzymes, naturally present in raw materials, or by microorganisms, which may be naturally present in the matrix or be added during beverage transformation processes. For this reason, in alcohol-free beverages, biogenic amine amount can be considered, above a certain level, as undesired microorganism activity. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the biogenic amine profile of non-alcoholic beverages in order to monitor food quality and safety. Moreover, biogenic amines can be taken into account by industries in order to monitor production processes and products. This review article provides an overview on the biogenic amine profile of alcohol-free beverages (plant milk, nervine drinks, soft drinks, and fruit juices). Furthermore, the clinical and toxicological effects, the biogenic amines legislation, and biogenic amine synthesis have been evaluated in non-alcoholic beverages.

Energy drinks

Purpose

This research aimed to study patterns of energy drinks (ED) consumption among university students and to identify the determinants for their preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 students from various departments of Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh, by convenience sampling. A self-administered, structured questionnaire was used to collect data.

Findings

About 52.3 per cent of the students were between 21 and 23 years of age, and half of them were male. More than half (53 per cent) of the students had consumed ED at least once in their lifetime. Only 22.1 per cent of these consumers had any knowledge of the ingredients in ED, and 4.3 per cent did not know the possible negative impacts. Bivariate analysis was performed to identify the variables significantly associated with ED consumption among students. The risks of ED consumption were found to be: male gender (Odds Ratio (OR) = 4.04; 95 per cent Confidence Interval (CI) = 2.36–6.92), father educated up to SSC (OR = 18.47; 95 per cent CI = 2.30–148.90) or college and above (OR = 17.01; 95 per cent CI = 2.31–135.60), smoker (OR = 3.87; 95 per cent CI = 1.61–9.35) and doing irregular physical activity (OR = 2.43; 95 per cent CI = 1.23–4.78).

Originality/value

ED consumption among university students is high, but their perception regarding the ingredients and potential health hazards is opaque. Therefore, it is imperative that at both community and individual levels, interventions should focus on educating and empowering individuals to make firm and positive decisions concerning their dietary habits and health.

Energy drinks and population health: consumption pattern and adverse effects among Saudi population

BACKGROUND

Caffeine containing energy drinks (EDs) are heavily consumed, particularly among young adults. The number of reports of caffeine intoxication from caffeinated EDs and problems related to caffeine dependence and withdrawal is increasing. The objective was to assess the knowledge and perceived beneficial effects of EDs consumers, to assess consumption patterns and determine the adverse effects experienced by different EDs consumer groups residing in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

An observational cross-sectional study with data from a randomly selected Saudi population was conducted during the period of January 15th, 2015, to April 15th, 2015, using a pre-tested 43-item questionnaire. The data were obtained and collected using interview questionnaires. Sociodemographic characteristics and data on EDs consumption patterns, the level of awareness among study subjects, and the purported benefits and reported adverse effects of EDs were collected. Frequency, percentage, and arithmetic means were calculated using Chi-square and ANOVA tests, and data with p < 0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

Of the 816 individuals invited to participate in the study, 783 participants responded and completed interviews, response rate was 96%. Consumers attributed the popularity of EDs to massive advertising media (46.7%) and their stimulating and invigorating effects (37.5%). EDs are consumed by subjects for their effects on fatigue reduction (64.6%), increased alertness and focus (75.8%), and assistance during long driving trips (75.7%). Study subjects reported suffering from adverse effects, including mainly diuresis (53.7%), palpitations (50.7%), insomnia (50.7%). Importantly, an inverse association was identified between knowledge of EDs and consumption rate, and a proportional association was identified between experienced adverse effects and consumption frequency. Lower knowledge scores were identified in daily consumers than in 1-3 times monthly consumers; higher adverse events were experienced by daily consumers than by 1-3 times monthly consumers. The majority of consumers (84.6%) recommended that authorities should regulate EDs consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive EDs consumption is associated with an increased risk of experiencing several adverse events, which is commensurate with published studies. Increasing knowledge about EDs and their possible risks could decrease their consumption by the general public.

Dietary Habits of Students Enrolled in Faculties of Health Sciences: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction It is often presumed that students of health sciences are more vigilant about their diet. This study assessed the prevalence of unhealthy dietary habits and identified its associated factors among students enrolled at a large university for health sciences in the Middle East. Methods A cross-sectional study, using a set of pre-validated and anonymous dietary tools, was conducted in 2018. The self-reported students' characteristics and prevalence of 10 unhealthy dietary habits were collected. Results Males were significantly more likely have irregular meal times (β = 0.425, adjusted [adj.] odds ratio [OR] = 1.5) and insufficient seafood consumption (β = 0.55, adj. OR = 1.7) compared to females, adj. P = 0.046 and adj. P = 0.012, respectively. Students in their third year and above (β = 0.857, adj. OR = 2.2) reported more insufficient water intake compared to students in the first and second years, adjusted P = 0.003. Obesity in students was a significant associated factor with fast food consumption (β = 0.48, adj. OR = 1.8), night-eating habits (β = 0.27, adj. OR = 1.3) and skipping meals (β = 0.41, adj. OR = 1.5) compared to normal weight students, adjusted P = 0.002, adj. P = 0.004, and adj. P = 0.003, respectively. Conclusions Compliance with healthy dietary habits among students was less than optimal. Special consideration should be paid to gender and obesity that have been associated with insufficient water intake, irregular meal times, skipping meals, night-eating habits, and fast food consumption.

Relationships between use of dietary supplements, caffeine and sensation seeking among college students

Objective: Caffeine and dietary supplement (DS) use by college students is not well-documented. Given reported associations between energy drink consumption and sensation seeking, we used the Sensation Seeking Scale Form V (SSS-V) to assess relationships between sensation-seeking, caffeine, and DS use. Participants: Data from 1,248 college students from five US institutions were collected from 2009 to 2011. Methods: Linear regression was used to examine relationships between scores on the SSS-V and caffeine and DS use, demographic, and lifestyle characteristics. Results: Male sex, nonHispanic race-ethnicity, higher family income, tobacco use, consuming caffeinated beverages, more than 400 mg caffeine per day, and energy drinks with alcohol at least 50% of the time, were significantly associated with higher total SSS-V scores (P < 0.001). Those using protein DSs had higher total, disinhibition, and boredom susceptibility SSS-V scores (Ps < 0.001). Conclusions: Results demonstrate a positive correlation between sensation-seeking attitudes and habitual caffeine, energy drink, and DS consumption.

Energy drinks in children and adolescents: demographic data and immediate effects

Energy drinks consumption has become increasingly common in the last few years, despite evidence associating these products with vast adverse health effects. This led us to explore the phenomenon of energy drinks consumption in adolescents in the Israeli Arab population of the Nazareth area (Northern Israel), examining their awareness of risks associated with consumption of energy drinks, investigating their immediate effects on the body. Our study revealed that the consumption of energy drinks is very common in adolescents of both sexes, though more common in boys. Of 375 students who filled out the questionnaire, 206 reported that they consumed energy drinks (55%), 91 were male (44.4%), and 115 were female (55.6%). In the experimental stage of this study, we found that energy drinks significantly increased systolic blood pressure in most participants within a brief period of time after drinking.Conclusion: Given the prevalence of energy drinks consumption and their side effects, it is important to increase awareness of the risks associated with their regular use and to combat this phenomenon through the education system in schools. What is Known: • Energy drinks consumption has become popular and frequent among adolescents across the world. • The immediate effects of energy drinks in children and adolescents are poorly described. What is New: • Religious and social norms are not a barrier to ED consumption among the varied investigated population. • Our study describes the immediate effect of energy drinks during the first 2 h after consumption, revealing systolic blood pressure to be significantly increased.

Consumption of Energy Drinks and Their Effects on Sleep Quality among Students at the Copperbelt University School of Medicine in Zambia

Background. Good sleep quality is cardinal to good health, and research has shown that it plays a fundamental role in immunity, learning, metabolism, and other biological functions. Energy drink consumption is a popular practice among college students in the United States. There has been little research done on the consumption of energy drinks and its effects in Zambian universities. The main objective was to determine the effects of energy drinks on sleep quality among students at the Copperbelt University School of Medicine. A self-administered questionnaire was administered to 195 undergraduate students at the Copperbelt University School of Medicine in their second- and third-year of study. Energy drink consumption and sleep quality were assessed by univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses. 157 students were enrolled into the study. The prevalence of energy drink consumption was 27.4% among participants. Studying for an exam was the most common reason for drinking energy drinks (83.7% of energy drink users). The majority of participants were found to be have poor sleep quality (59.6%). There was a statistically significant association between energy drink consumption and poor sleep quality (p value < 0.01). The findings of our study show that energy drink consumption is not a common practice in the Zambian university setting as the prevalence was 27.4%. Furthermore, the prevalence of poor sleep quality among Zambian university students is high and is significantly associated with energy drink consumption, and there is a need to better understand the patterns of energy drink use as well as their effects on various aspects of health including sleep quality in the Zambian setting. Further research should assess the knowledge of nonmedical students on the effects of energy drinks.

Consumption of energy drinks among Turkish University students and its health hazards

Objective:

To determine the awareness, consumption patterns of energy drinks (ED) and health hazards among students at a Turkish University.

Methods:

This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted by questionnaire method between in 2017 among Erciyes University students. Total 1257 students from the Faculties of Medicine, Communication and Physical Education and Sports College participated in the study. Pearson chi-square test, binary logistic regressions were used for statistical analysis. p <0.05 values were considered significant.

Results:

Students who tried at least once and consumed regularly ED were 52.5% and 15.7% respectively. Consuming regularly and trying ED were more common among students who were studying at Physical Education and Sports High school, male, smoking, alcohol consumer, doing regular physical activity. Mean age of students to start drinking ED was 15.1 years. Most common reason for ED consumption was; staying awake. Alcohol mixed energy drinks consumption rate was 37.6% among regular ED consumers. Most declared harmful effect was palpitation.

Conclusion:

ED consumption among Erciyes University students was widespread. Students should be informed about EDs’ hazards for health. Legal regulations regarding production, marketing and advertising of EDs must be reconsidered.

Gender Differences in Any-Source Caffeine and Energy Drink Use and Associated Adverse Health Behaviors

Background: The majority of college students report caffeine use with many using caffeine daily. Energy drink (ED) use, in particular, is common among college students, and numerous studies link these heavily caffeinated drinks to a variety of adverse consequences including substance use and risky behaviors. However, little is known about correlations between any-source caffeine use and other substance use and problems. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patterns of caffeine use and examine the relationships between caffeine, in general, and EDs specifically, and adverse health behaviors in college students. Methods: We used data from a longitudinal study of alcohol use and health-related outcomes to assess caffeine, alcohol, nonprescription drug, and tobacco use and symptoms of alcohol dependence in 1958 freshmen from a mid-Atlantic university during Fall 2012. We compared adverse health behaviors between caffeine users and nonusers and ED users and nonusers. Data were evaluated separately in men and women. Results: While women reported significantly more caffeine use than men, men reported more ED use. EDs, regardless of frequency of use, were associated with all adverse health behaviors, but only in female students. Similarly, daily any-source caffeine use was significantly associated with alcohol, nonprescription drug, and tobacco use in female students, but in men, the association was less robust. Conclusions: This research shows that caffeine use is prevalent among college students, and, in female students, is associated with alcohol, nonprescription drug, and tobacco use and alcohol dependence symptoms. Interventions aimed at promoting healthy behaviors may be especially useful in this population.

Influence of Psychosocial Factors on Energy Drink Consumption in Korean Nursing Students: Never-consumers versus Ever-consumers

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the status of caffeine-containing energy drink consumption among Korean nursing students and to identify associated psychological factors.

Methods

In total, 187 Korean nursing students participated in this cross-sectional study. A self-administered questionnaire was used to identify participants' general characteristics and psychosocial factors (self-esteem, academic stress, depression, and college adjustment) associated with energy drink consumption. Data were analyzed with SPSS using descriptive statistics, the x² test, the t-test, and logistic regression.

Results

More than two-thirds (73.3%) of the participants had consumed energy drinks. Among the investigated psychological factors, depression appeared to most strongly influence energy drink consumption behaviors in this population.

Conclusion

The consumption of caffeine-containing energy drinks was found to be common among nursing students preparing to become health care professionals; depressed nursing students were more likely to have consumed energy drinks than non-depressed students. Nursing educators should emphasize the early detection of unhealthy beverage consumption habits and provide appropriate education to enhance healthy behaviors in future health care professionals.

Intensity of Energy Drink Use Plus Alcohol Predict Risky Health Behaviours among University Students in the Caribbean

The relationship between energy drink (ED) use and risky behaviours has not been explored in the Caribbean, where youth risky behaviours are prevalent. This paper examines the relationship between ED use and risky behaviours and the moderating effect of gender among 1994 undergraduate students in Trinidad and Tobago. Analyses examined the association between ED use and risky behaviours, and the significant predictors of risky behaviours. Analysis of variance determined whether there were differences in risky behaviours between those who used only alcohol or EDs, both alcohol and EDs, alcohol mixed with EDs and neither alcohol nor EDs; and the difference between those with high and low intensity of ED use. In both males and females current use of energy drinks was positively associated with harmful substance use, risky sexual behaviours, and risky non-sexual behaviours, more strongly for males. The strongest predictor of risky behaviours was gender. Males consuming both alcohol and EDs, independently or mixed, were most likely to have risky behaviours. Consistent with previous reports, harmful alcohol use and other risk taking health behaviours appear to be predicted by a combination of high intensity use of EDs and alcohol. In countries like Trinidad and Tobago where violence, alcohol use disorders, STI/HIV infection and teenaged pregnancy are prevalent, the assessment of consumption of EDs and alcohol may be an important potential predictor of health compromising behaviours.

Correlates of Alcohol Mixed with Energy Drink Use Among First Year College Students: Clinical and Research Implications

Background: Alcohol mixed with energy drink (AmED) use among college students is associated with specific adverse effects (e.g., sexual assault, driving while intoxicated). This study offered the opportunity to evaluate correlates of past year AmED use in a large sample of college students. Methods: In autumn 2010, emails were sent to all first year students (n = 29,536) at 11 colleges and universities in North Carolina and Virginia, inviting them to participate in a brief web-based survey to be used to establish a cohort for the parent tobacco use study; 10,340 (35%) students responded to the web-based survey, which elicited items on demographics, past year use of AmED, and other health behaviors. Results: Past year of AmED was reported by 29.4% of students. Logistic regression analysis revealed that female gender (adjusted odds ratios [AOR] = 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16-1.42); ever use of smokeless tobacco (AOR = 3.51, 95% CI = 3.00-4.10); current smoking (AOR = 4.97, 95% CI = 4.34-5.69); 2 or fewer days of physical activity per week (AOR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.04-1.28); and 7 or 8 hours of sleep per day (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.02-1.24) predicted risk of past year use of AmED. Conclusions: Nearly a third of first year college students reported past year use of AmED. Our finding of increased past year use of AmED use among women is new and might reflect the changing epidemiology of female college alcohol use. Of additional concern, such use might also reflect targeted marketing to women by the energy drink industry. Findings can guide future research as well as substance counseling to college students.

Sleepy Teens and Energy Drink Use: Results From an Ethnically Diverse Sample of Youth

This study examines the association between use of energy drinks or products (EP), EP expectancies, and the association between EP use and sleep in a racially and ethnically diverse sample (N = 2,485) of adolescents. Prevalence of EP use was approximately 18%, with no statistically significant racial or ethnic differences in prevalence. There were significant racial and ethnic differences in EP expectancies; Hispanic and Multiracial or Other groups endorsed less positive expectancies than Whites and Asians. EP use was significantly associated with later weekend bedtimes, shorter weekend total sleep time (TST), a smaller weekend-weekday difference in TST, and more trouble sleeping, even after adjusting for covariates. There were no significant race or ethnicity interactions between EP use and sleep. EP use is an independent correlate of sleep problems in adolescents across racial or ethnic groups.

Intake of caffeine from all sources and reasons for use by college students

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Caffeine intake in a convenience sample of U.S. college students (N = 1248) was surveyed at five geographically-dispersed United States (U.S.) universities.

METHODS

Intake from coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, gums, and medications was assessed. Associations between caffeine intake and demographic variables including sex, age, race/ethnicity, family income, general health, exercise, weight variables and tobacco use were examined. Reasons for use of caffeine-containing products were assessed.

RESULTS

Caffeine, in any form, was consumed by 92% of students in the past year. Mean daily caffeine consumption for all students, including non-consumers, was 159 mg/d with a mean intake of 173 mg/d among caffeine users. Coffee was the main source of caffeine intake in male (120 mg/d) and female (111 mg/d) consumers. Male and female students consumed 53 vs. 30 mg/d of caffeine in energy drinks, respectively, and 28% consumed energy drinks with alcohol on at least one occasion. Students provided multiple reasons for caffeine use including: to feel awake (79%); enjoy the taste (68%); the social aspects of consumption (39%); improve concentration (31%); increase physical energy (27%); improve mood (18%); and alleviate stress (9%).

CONCLUSIONS

As in the general U.S. population, coffee is the primary source of caffeine intake among the college students surveyed. Energy drinks provide less than half of total daily caffeine intake but more than among the general population. Students, especially women, consume somewhat more caffeine than the general population of individuals aged 19-30 y but less than individuals aged 31-50 y.

Energy drink consumption: a survey in high school students and associated psychological effects

Introduction

Energy drinks represent an emerging health problem among young people. Energy drinks generally refer to a class of beverages containing sugars and various combinations of bioactive ingredients such as caffeine, taurine etc. Also the mix of energy drinks with alcohol is fairly frequent among young people and could be associated with dangerous effects.

Methods

In 2016-2017, a cross-sectional study was conducted in 1581 students attending eight high school in the Marche Region. Data were collected via an anonymous self-administered questionnaire.

Results

The 27.7% of students use energy drinks and the majority, corresponding with the 93.0%, are aware of the main ingredients contained in energy drinks. The main activities for which young people use these drinks are: sport, leisure, pleasure, study. Young people who admit to using alcohol mixed with energy drinks more than 4 times a month are an alarming fact.

Conclusions

This research confirms that energy drinks are used more by young males and especially by those who practice sports. Furthermore, the use these beverages to increase the concentration in the study and to be more brilliant in free time, is confirmed.

Is the Consumption of Energy Drinks Associated With Academic Achievement Among College Students?

Despite widely reported side effects, use of energy drinks has increased among college students, who report that they consume energy drinks to help them complete schoolwork. However, little is known about the association between energy drink use and academic performance. We explored the relationship between energy drink consumption and current academic grade point average (GPA) among first-year undergraduate students. Participants included 844 first-year undergraduates (58.1 % female; 50.7 % White). Students reported their health behaviors via an online survey. We measured energy drink consumption with two measures: past month consumption by number of drinks usually consumed in 1 month and number consumed during the last occasion of consumption. We used multiple linear regression modeling with energy drink consumption and current GPA, controlling for gender, race, weekend and weekday sleep duration, perceived stress, perceived stress management, media use, and past month alcohol use. We found that past month energy drink consumption quantity by frequency (p < 0.001), and energy drinks consumed during the last occasion (p < 0.001), were associated with a lower GPA. Energy drinks consumed during the last occasion of consumption (p = 0.01) remained significantly associated with a lower GPA when controlling for alcohol use. While students report using energy drinks for school-related reasons, our findings suggest that greater energy drink consumption is associated with a lower GPA, even after controlling for potential confounding variables. Longitudinal research is needed that addresses whether GPA declines after continued use of energy drinks or if students struggling academically turn to energy drinks to manage their schoolwork.

Some Socioeconomic Factors and Lifestyle Habits Influencing the Prevalence of Obesity among Adolescent Male Students in the Hail Region of Saudi Arabia

A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the effect of some socioeconomic factors and lifestyle habits on the prevalence of obesity among adolescent male students in the Hail region, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was filled by 1495 male adolescents distributed among 12 schools in the Hail region. Body weight and height were taken, and the Z-score of students was measured using Anthroplus software with a cutoff 1–2 and +2 standard deviations to determine overweight and obesity, respectively. The study revealed that 21.3% of students were overweight and 27% were obese, respectively. There was a negative association between family size of >8 and obesity (OR: 0.68, CI: 0.48–0.92, p = 0.05). Family income of <5000 SR was negatively associated with obesity (OR: 0.59, CI: 0.36–0.97, p = 0.03). Whether a subject’s mother worked (odds ratio (OR): 1.43, confidence interval CI: 1.03–1.99, p = 0.03) as well as the subject’s mother’s education—whether she can read and write, has a middle school degree, or has done postsecondary studies—were positively associated with obesity. Exercise, regardless of the duration, was negatively associated with obesity. In addition, sleeping <6 h/day had a positive association with obesity. Conclusion: a >8 family size and a low family income were negatively associated with obesity, while having an educated and working mother was positively associated with obesity.

Mental and physical effects of energy drinks consumption in an Italian young people group: a pilot study

INTRODUCTION

The primary consumers of energy drinks were athletes, to combat fatigue, but in reality, thanks to their fast expansion and economic growth, young adults and teenagers represent the new target market. Consumption of energy drinks by both recreational and competitive athletes has increased dramatically in recent years, though they are often unaware of what is being ingested, believing to improve their physical and psychological performance. The literature shows contradictions about the capacity of energy drinks to enhance psychophysical results. In relation to probable adverse effects induced by the irregular consumption of energy drinks, which in several cases are not so clear, we decided to investigate the possible relationship between the intake of energy drinks and the presence of mental and physical stress in young people and athletes.

METHODS

Two experimental sessions, separated at least by 1 week, according to a randomized cross-over design, following this protocol were conducted: in the first session a mental and physical stress was conducted without the consumption of energy drinks, the second after energy drinks consumption. BAI (Beck Anxiety Inventory) and BDI (Beck Depression Inventory II) test have been used to test the mental stress, and a "cycle ergometer test" to test the physical stress.

RESULTS

BAI and BDI tests results showed that before the consumption of energy drinks, subjects are considered in the range of "minimal level of anxiety", (10 and 60 percentiles) and do not report a level of depression. After the energy drinks consumption, a "mild level of anxiety" has been recorded, and the BDI showed a case with a pathological profile. The physical test recorded a small increase in the maximum heart rate was verified with the intake of an energetic beverage.

CONCLUSIONS

The stimulating effect of Energy Drinks EDs on nervous system and cardiovascular system, must be checked and studied in deeper detail, because it may represent a risk for the health of young athletes.

Energy drink and ginseng consumption by Italian university students: a cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

The consumption of energy drinks (ED) and ginseng by young people to enhance their mental and physical performance has become widespread. Reported side-effects of ED have raised doubts regarding their safety. This cross-sectional study investigates the phenomenon.

METHODS

An anonymous questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of Verona university students. The resulting data were analyzed with Excel 2013, STATA 13 software.

RESULTS

ED and ginseng consumption was reported by 38.6% and 37.4% of the students, respectively. More than 70% of ED and ginseng users were 18 to 22 years old. Excluding non-responders, ED consumers were mostly males (51.8% vs 33.0%), contrary to ginseng consumers (females 40.4% vs 30.9%). Being a working student was significantly positively associated both to EDs (OR 1.5) and ginseng use (OR 1.4). The most frequently reported academic and other reasons for ED use were: "to study longer" (47.5%), and "to socialize" (29.1%). The most often used combinations were ED containing alcohol (65.6%) and ginseng-coffee beverages (71.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

The diffusion of ED and ginseng consumption warrants prevention and monitoring measures, and deserves further analysis.

Caffeine alters emotion and emotional responses in low habitual caffeine consumers

Caffeine reliably increases emotional arousal, but it is unclear whether and how it influences other dimensions of emotion such as emotional valence. These experiments documented whether caffeine influences emotion and emotion regulation choice and success. Low to abstinent caffeine consumers (maximum 100 mg/day) completed measures of state anxiety, positive and negative emotion, and salivary cortisol before, 45 min after, and 75 min after consuming 400 mg caffeine or placebo. Participants also completed an emotion regulation choice task, in which they chose to employ cognitive reappraisal or distraction in response to high and low intensity negative pictures (Experiment 1), or a cognitive reappraisal task, in which they employed cognitive reappraisal or no emotion regulation strategy in response to negative and neutral pictures (Experiment 2). State anxiety, negative emotion, and salivary cortisol were heightened both 45 and 75 min after caffeine intake relative to placebo. In Experiment 1, caffeine did not influence the frequency with which participants chose reappraisal or distraction, but reduced negativity of the picture ratings. In Experiment 2, caffeine did not influence cognitive reappraisal success. Thus, caffeine mitigated emotional responses to negative situations, but not how participants chose to regulate such responses or the success with which they did so.

Energy Drink and Alcohol mixed Energy Drink use among high school adolescents: Association with risk taking behavior, social characteristics

PURPOSE

The aims of the study were to: a) examine the prevalence of energy drink (ED) and alcohol mixed with energy drink (AmED) consumption; b) investigate the relationships between ED and AmED with alcohol, binge drinking and drugs accounting for at risk behaviors among a representative sample of Italian adolescents.

METHODS

A representative sample of 30,588 Italian high school students, aged 15-19years, was studied. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent association of the potential predictors' characteristics with the ED and AmED drinking during the last year.

RESULTS

Respectively 41.4% and 23.2% of respondents reported drinking EDs and AmEDs in the last year. Multivariate analysis revealed that consumption of EDs and AmEDs during the last year were significantly associated with daily smoking, binge drinking, use of cannabis and other psychotropic drugs. Among life habits and risky behaviors the following were positively associated: going out with friends for fun, participating in sports, experiencing physical fights/accidents or injury, engaging in sexual intercourse without protection and being involved in accidents while driving.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the popularity of ED and AmED consumption among the Italian school population aged 15-19years old: 4 out of 10 students consumed EDs in the last year and 2 out of 10 AmED. Multivariate analysis highlighted the association with illicit drug consumption and harming behaviors, confirming that consumption of EDs and AmEDs is a compelling issue especially during adolescence, as it can effect health as well as risk taking behaviors.

Do Energy Drink Consumers Study More?

The use and motivations for use of energy drinks (EDs) in college students has been documented in the literature. Many college students identify academic reasons, such as a need to study more, as a motivation for ED use. However, research has not determined if users who claim academic motivations actually study more than those who claim other motivations. A sample of 692 undergraduate students at a large, private university completed a paper survey that inquired about demographics, ED use, motivations for ED use, sleep quality, and average amount of time spent sleeping and studying per week. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze demographics, and analysis of variance was used to compare ED users with different motivations to amount of time spent sleeping and studying per week. Regression analysis was also used to determine if ED use could be predicted by any of the other variables. Increased ED consumption was predicted by being male (B = -0.394, p < .001) and having a decreased sleep quality (B = 0.586, p < .001). Reported study hours by subjects who claimed academic reasons as motivation for ED use were not significantly different in comparison to ED users who claimed other motivations. In our sample, ED users who reported academic reasons as motivations for use did not report significantly more study hours per week when compared to those who claimed other motivations. This demonstrates a disconnect between reported motivations for energy drink use and outcomes that are expected to be associated with those motivations.

Energy Drink Consumption and Cardiac Complications: A Case for Caution

We present a case of atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response in a 28-year-old previously healthy man in the context of daily consumption of 2 Monster energy drinks and 2 to 3 beers. We have obtained consent from this patient to present his case. Our observation adds to the developing literature describing an association between highly caffeinated drinks and adverse cardiovascular events. The previous cases in the literature and the proposed underlying mechanisms of this association are briefly discussed in this article. With the rising popularity of energy drinks, clinicians should be aware of their arrhythmogenic potential and consider screening for these products in patients who present with otherwise unexplained arrhythmias.

Prevalence, side effects and awareness about energy drinks among the female university students in Saudi Arabia

Objective:

To evaluate the consumption, prevalence, side effects and awareness of energy drinks among female university students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

A quantitative research design was implied with sample size of 358 female students, recruited from Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. The data, gathered through self-administered questionnaire, was analyzed through SPSS version 20.0 with p value <0.005 deemed statistically significant.

Results:

From the sample of 358 female students, 337 attempted the questionnaire from which 274 students were identified as energy drink consumers. The reasons for increased consumption of energy drinks mainly include giving company to friends (59.4%), better performance in exams (41.2%), and better concentration in studies (39.4%). The most common side effect was headache (32.3%), and the least was identified as allergy (2%). Only 39.4% and 29.9% of students acquired awareness regarding the harmful effects of energy drink consumption during pregnancy and breast feeding respectively.

Conclusion:

A significant proportion of female students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz have reported to consume energy drinks regularly with several adverse effects. The government of Saudi Arabia should take serious initiatives towards organizing effective awareness programs specifically in universities and colleges to control the consumption of energy drinks and educate on the adverse effects.

Energy Drink Induced Lipid Peroxidation and Oxidative Damage in Rat Liver and Brain When Used Alone or Combined with Alcohol

Energy drinks (ED) are containing large doses of metabolic stimulants and its use with ethanol has increased dramatically among young adults. In this study, we examined the effects of ED exposure either alone or in combination with ethanol on oxidative stress parameters including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and lipid peroxidation parameter malondialdehyde (MDA) in rat. Some histopathological findings were also evaluated. ED exposure led to a dose-dependent increase in liver MDA compared to the control indicating oxidative damage. Histopathological findings also revealed that ED alone may generate liver damage. Ethanol exposure increased MDA level and SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activity in both the brain and the liver. The combination of ethanol and ED produced greater damage which is considered by further increases in SOD and GSH-Px activity in the brain. Similar results for MDA were observed in both the liver and brain as well. Our findings suggest that ED consumption alone or combination with ethanol may represent a significant public health concern.

Underlying Beliefs Associated With College Student Consumption of Energy Beverages

College students are heavy consumers of energy beverages, yet further study is needed to better understand determinants of use. The purpose of this cross-sectional study ( N = 283) was to identify beliefs explaining unsafe consumption practices. A principal components analysis revealed three eigenvalues >1 explaining approximately 55% of the variance (health and appearance, performance and fatigue, and recreation and alcohol). Multiple regression analysis explained 75% of the variance for intent to consume. Standardized beta for attitude and subjective norms was p < .001; perceived behavioral control was p < .05. MANOVA was used to determine the effect of gender on eight dependent variables (Wilks’s lambda = 3.78, p < .001). Attitudes and subjective norms influenced the intent to consume energy beverages, particularly in males. Students viewed energy beverages as useful for managing health and appearance and performance and fatigue, and as a way to enhance recreation and alcohol consumption.

Relationship Between Energy Drink Consumption and Nutrition Knowledge in Student-Athletes

OBJECTIVE

To identify the relationships between energy drink consumption, nutrition knowledge, and socio-demographic characteristics in a convenience sample of student-athletes.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

SETTING

Online survey.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 194 student-athletes (112 female and 82 male).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of human nutrition, energy drink consumption habits.

ANALYSIS

Chi-square tests of independence, independent t tests, and hierarchical regression analyses were applied.

RESULTS

Most student-athletes in the sample (85.5%) did not consume energy drinks, but those who did tended to be male (P = .004), had lower overall knowledge of nutrition (P = .02), and had a lower grade point average (P < .001) than did nonusers. Also, energy drink consumption was associated with the overall nutrition knowledge score when adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics, with nonusers having greater nutrition knowledge (P = .007) than users.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Student-athletes tend to refrain from energy drink use but those who use it have a tendency to have lower nutrition knowledge than do nonusers. Therefore, nutrition education targeted toward student-athletes should encompass the consumption of energy drinks because limited evidence shows the benefits of collegiate athletes consuming energy drinks.