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Kobik W, Aryee PA. Energy drinks in Tamale: Understanding youth perceptions, consumption patterns, and related factors. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0289391. [PMID: 38669248 PMCID: PMC11051681 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Energy drinks (EDs) have become a popular choice for young people seeking physical and cognitive boosts, with ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and B vitamins aimed at improving academic, athletic, and alertness levels. However, the popularity of these drinks is also driven by low prices, taste, brand loyalty, and gendered marketing, with boys being more likely to consume them. Despite the supposed benefits, EDs have been associated with high-risk behaviours, deaths, and adverse health effects, especially those related to cardiovascular risk. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the use of EDs is on the rise. Hence, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and consumption patterns, perceptions, and factors associated with ED consumption among the youth of the Tamale Metropolis. The study was cross-sectional, consisting of 541 participants. The group consisted of 340 males and 201 females, between the ages of 15 and 45. A questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on the respondents' consumption patterns and perceptions of EDs, as well as their socio-demographic characteristics. The results of the study indicated that a large percentage of the respondents, 98.7%, had consumed EDs before, while 78.7% currently consume them. Respondents believed that EDs provided additional energy (81.00%) and reduced stress (62.30%). However, they also perceived side effects such as insomnia (60.60%) and restlessness (51.40%). Also, the highest proportion of respondents (83.4%) had poor knowledge of EDs. They were unaware of the classification of EDs and their ingredients, side effects, and benefits. Age, marital status, level of education, work intensity, EDs served at gatherings, and knowledge of EDs was significantly associated with ED consumption (p < .05). Consumption was higher among those aged 26 to 35 years, singles, individuals with no formal education, and those with high work intensity. The high consumption was also associated with low knowledge levels. It is recommended that public health and nutrition professionals engage in further advocacy efforts to improve the youth's knowledge and perception of EDs in a positive manner. In addition, lawmakers should use legislation to influence consumption rates and safeguard the health of consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Williams Kobik
- Department of Health and Nutrition, Allied Relief, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana
| | - Paul Armah Aryee
- Department of Dietetics, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana
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Graczyk AM, Leone LA, Orom H, Ziegler AM, Crandall AK, Klasko-Foster LB, Temple JL. Alcohol mixed energy drink usage and risk-taking among college students in Western New York State. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2022; 70:1651-1664. [PMID: 33048628 PMCID: PMC8041911 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2020.1817036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol mixed energy drinks (AmED) may promote excessive alcohol intake and risk-taking among college students. Objective: To understand the relationship between AmED use and risky behavior as well as attitudes and motivations for AmED use. Participants: Undergraduate college students N = 422 (Study 1), N = 37 (Study 2). Methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, we first surveyed undergraduate students about their AmED and alcohol consumption and a series of risk behaviors, self-efficacy, and beliefs (Study 1). We then conducted focus groups within the same population to better understand attitudes, knowledge, and motivations for using AmED (Study 2). Results: Recent AmED use was significantly associated with an increased number of reported binge drinking occasions and self-reported driving while intoxicated events. Our qualitative data analyses revealed two major themes associated with AmED consumption: factors encouraging AmED use and decisions about driving while under the influence of alcohol. Conclusions: These findings add to the literature of beliefs and motivations for AmED use among college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Graczyk
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
| | - Lucia A Leone
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
| | - Heather Orom
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
| | - Amanda M Ziegler
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
| | - Amanda K Crandall
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
| | | | - Jennifer L Temple
- Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo
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Benson S, Johnson SJ, Alford C, Scholey A, Verster JC. A Cross-Cultural Comparison of the Effects of Alcohol Mixed with Energy Drink (AMED) Consumption on Overall Alcohol Consumption and Related Consequences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:7579. [PMID: 34300031 PMCID: PMC8305943 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing body of scientific literature examining the effects of alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED) on alcohol consumption and related negative consequences, such as risky behavior or negative health effects. It is unknown whether differences in cultural context may influence these AMED effects. The current cross-cultural study compared the data of N = 6881 students from The Netherlands (N = 4424), UK (N = 1594), and Australia (N = 863). Demographics, alcohol consumption, its consequences, and motives for AMED consumption were assessed. Analyses included (a) between-groups comparison of AMED and alcohol only (AO) consumers, (b) within-subjects comparison of AMED and AO occasions among AMED consumers only, and (c) comparisons between the three countries. The between-groups analysis revealed that AMED consumers drink more alcohol than AO consumers (p < 0.001). AMED consumers differed from AO consumers in many other aspects. For example, AMED consumers were significantly more often a smoker and had higher risk-taking scores. Within subject analysis among AMED consumers showed that significantly less alcohol was consumed on AMED, compared to AO occasions (p < 0.001). These findings were observed for both typical drinking occasions and the past month's heaviest drinking occasion, and were consistent across the three countries. Comparisons between countries revealed that on both AMED and AO occasions, the UK sample consumed significantly more alcohol than the Australian and Dutch samples. Across countries, neutral motives such as 'I like the taste' and 'I wanted to drink something else' were the most frequently reported motives for consuming AMED. The most notable difference between the countries was the finding that consuming AMED 'To get drunk' was endorsed significantly more often among the UK sample (45.6%) than the Australian (31.2%) and Dutch (8.0%) samples. Negative alcohol-related consequences were significantly less frequently reported for AMED occasions compared to AO occasions. Some country-specific consequences of AMED consumption were observed, but these were more likely related to characteristics of the country and their drinking culture (e.g., the Australian sample reported more often driving a car after AMED consumption compared to the other countries, and this pattern of results was also found for AO occasions). In conclusion, there were limited differences between countries with regard to demographics of consumers and motives for AMED consumption, but the UK sample consumed significantly more alcohol and reported the highest frequency of negative alcohol related consequences. Consistent across countries was the observation that AMED consumers consume significantly less alcohol on their past month heaviest AMED drinking occasion, compared to their past month heaviest AO drinking occasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Benson
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia; (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Sean J. Johnson
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4YS, UK;
| | - Chris Alford
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK;
| | - Andrew Scholey
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia; (S.B.); (A.S.)
- Nutrition Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Joris C. Verster
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Consumption Patterns of Alcohol and Alcohol mixed with Energy Drinks in Australian Students and Non-Students. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12010149. [PMID: 31948025 PMCID: PMC7019232 DOI: 10.3390/nu12010149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies assessing alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED) use and drinking behaviors have been largely restricted to student-only cohorts. Thus, it is not known whether evidence from these studies is applicable to non-student populations. This study examined alcohol consumption and involvement in negative alcohol-related consequences among AMED and alcohol-only (AO) users, with the aim of determining whether drinking behaviors differ according to student status. An online survey was conducted in Australia to assess alcohol consumption and alcohol-related consequences following AMED and AO consumption, according to student status. The final sample consisted of 1369 participants. Between-subjects analyses comparing AMED and AO users, confirmed previous findings in that, compared with AO users, AMED users consumed significantly more alcohol, consumed alcohol more frequently and were involved in a greater number of alcohol-related consequences. Within-subjects analyses of AMED users comparing AMED and AO drinking occasions revealed that significantly less alcohol was consumed and involvement in negative alcohol-related consequences was lower during AMED compared with AO drinking occasions. Regardless of drink type, compared with students, non-students consumed more alcohol, consumed alcohol more frequently and were involved in a greater number of negative alcohol-related consequences. These findings provide further evidence that AMED use is one manifestation of a risk-taking personality and suggest that non-students drink more alcohol, drink more frequently and are involved in a greater number of negative alcohol-related consequences than students.
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Scholey A, Benson S, Kaufman J, Terpstra C, Ayre E, Verster JC, Allen C, Devilly GJ. Effects of Alcohol Hangover on Cognitive Performance: Findings from a Field/Internet Mixed Methodology Study. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E440. [PMID: 30935081 PMCID: PMC6518120 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8040440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Results from studies into the cognitive effects of alcohol hangover have been mixed. They also present methodological challenges, often relying on self-reports of alcohol consumption leading to hangover. The current study measured Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC, which was obtained via breathalyzer) and self-reported drinking behavior during a night out. These were then related to hangover severity and cognitive function, measured over the internet in the same subjects, the following morning. Volunteers were breathalyzed and interviewed as they left the central entertainment district of an Australian state capital. They were provided with a unique identifier and, the following morning, logged on to a website. They completed a number of measures including an online version of the Alcohol Hangover Severity Scale (AHSS), questions regarding number and type of drinks consumed the previous night, and the eTMT-B-a validated, online analogue of the Trail Making Test B (TMT-B) of executive function and working memory. Hangover severity was significantly correlated with one measure only, namely the previous night's Breath Alcohol Concentration (r = 0.228, p = 0.019). Completion time on the eTMT-B was significantly correlated with hangover severity (r = 0.245, p = 0.012), previous night's BAC (r = 0.197, p = 0.041), and time spent dinking (r = 0.376, p < 0.001). These findings confirm that alcohol hangover negatively affects cognitive functioning and that poorer working memory and executive performance correlate with hangover severity. The results also support the utility and certain advantages of using online measures in hangover research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Scholey
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Sarah Benson
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Jordy Kaufman
- Swinburne BabyLab, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Chantal Terpstra
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth Ayre
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
| | - Joris C Verster
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne, VIC 3122, Australia.
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Cory Allen
- Queensland Police Service Academy, GPO Box 1110, Archerfield, QLD 4108, Australia.
| | - Grant J Devilly
- School of Applied Psychology and Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University (Mt Gravatt Campus), Mt Gravatt, QLD 4122, Australia.
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Roldán M, Echeverry-Alzate V, Bühler KM, Sánchez-Diez IJ, Calleja-Conde J, Olmos P, Boehm SL, Maldonado R, Rodríguez de Fonseca F, Santiago C, Gómez-Gallego F, Giné E, López-Moreno JA. Red Bull® energy drink increases consumption of higher concentrations of alcohol. Addict Biol 2018; 23:1094-1105. [PMID: 28940880 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mixing alcohol with caffeinated energy drinks is a common practice, especially among young people. In humans, the research on this issue has mainly focused on the use of the mass-marketed energy drinks themselves, whereas in animal models, it has focused on the individual effects of their active ingredients (i.e. caffeine). Here, we have characterized how Red Bull®, one of the most consumed caffeinated energy drink worldwide, modulates operant alcohol self-administration in Wistar rats. We found that animals readily and steadily responded for Red Bull (mean: 90 responses, 30 minutes and fixed-ratio 1), which was accompanied by locomotor stimulating effects (26 percent increase). The higher the concentration of alcohol (3-20 percent), the higher the consumption of alcohol (g/kg) and associated blood alcohol levels (91.76 percent) in the mixed Red Bull-alcohol group (60 percent increase). Blood caffeine levels in the Red Bull group were 4.69 μg/ml and 1.31 μg/ml in the Red Bull-alcohol group after the 30-minute session. Because Red Bull also contains 11 percent sucrose, we examined the time course of blood glucose as well as insulin and corticosterone. The correlation between intake of Red Bull and blood glucose levels was higher at 90 minutes than 5 minutes after its consumption, and there was no relationship with blood insulin or blood corticosterone levels. Red Bull did not alter extinction and reacquisition of responding for alcohol nor did it affect relapse-like drinking. Overall, our results suggest that Red Bull might be a vulnerability factor to develop alcoholism given that it intensifies the consumption of higher concentrations of alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Roldán
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de Somosaguas; Complutense University of Madrid; Spain
| | - Victor Echeverry-Alzate
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de Somosaguas; Complutense University of Madrid; Spain
| | - Kora-Mareen Bühler
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de Somosaguas; Complutense University of Madrid; Spain
| | | | - Javier Calleja-Conde
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de Somosaguas; Complutense University of Madrid; Spain
| | | | - Stephen L. Boehm
- Department of Psychology, Indiana Alcohol Research Center; Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis; Indianapolis IN USA
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Experimental and Health Sciences; Universitat Pompeu Fabra; Spain
| | | | | | | | - Elena Giné
- Department of Cellular Biology, School of Medicine; Complutense University of Madrid; Spain
| | - Jose Antonio López-Moreno
- Department of Psychobiology, School of Psychology, Campus de Somosaguas; Complutense University of Madrid; Spain
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Wilson MN, Cumming T, Burkhalter R, Langille DB, Ogilvie R, Asbridge M. Driving under the influence behaviours among high school students who mix alcohol with energy drinks. Prev Med 2018; 111:402-409. [PMID: 29197535 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2017.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol and energy drinks are commonly used substances by youth in Canada, and are often mixed (AmED). While several studies have shown that AmED can have dangerous effects, less well understood is how AmED is associated with driving under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. This study sought to determine whether youth who use AmED were more likely to engage in driving, or being a passenger of a driver, under the influence of alcohol or cannabis compared to youth who use either alcohol or energy drinks alone. This study used data from grade 10-12 students who took part in the 2014/2015 Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (N=17,450). The association of past-year AmED use with past-30day: driving under the influence of alcohol or cannabis, and riding with an alcohol- or cannabis-influenced driver, was assessed using logistic regression. One in four youth had consumed AmED in the previous 12months. AmED users were more likely to engage in all risk behaviours except riding with a drinking driver, relative to youth who only consumed alcohol. No association was observed for youth who consumed alcohol and energy drinks on separate occasions. Youth who use AmED demonstrate a higher risk profile for driving under the influence of alcohol or cannabis, than youth who use alcohol alone. Future research should explore the biopsychosocial pathways that may explain why using energy drinks enhances the already heightened risk posed by alcohol on other health-related behaviours such as driving under the influence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria N Wilson
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Avenue, Halifax, NS B3H 1V7, Canada.
| | - Tammy Cumming
- Propel Centre for Population Health Impact, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, TechTown 2232, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Robin Burkhalter
- Propel Centre for Population Health Impact, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, TechTown 2232, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Donald B Langille
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Avenue, Halifax, NS B3H 1V7, Canada
| | - Rachel Ogilvie
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Avenue, Halifax, NS B3H 1V7, Canada
| | - Mark Asbridge
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Avenue, Halifax, NS B3H 1V7, Canada
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Verster JC, Benson S, Johnson SJ, Alford C, Godefroy SB, Scholey A. Alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED): A critical review and meta-analysis. Hum Psychopharmacol 2018; 33:e2650. [PMID: 29417616 PMCID: PMC5901036 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to critically review the (1) prevalence of alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED) consumption, (2) motives for AMED consumption, (3) correlates of AMED consumption, and (4) whether AMED consumption has an impact on (a) alcohol consumption, (b) subjective intoxication, and (c) risk-taking behavior. Overall a minority of the population consumes AMED, typically infrequently. Motives for AMED consumption are predominantly hedonistic and social. Meta-analyses revealed that AMED consumers drink significantly more alcohol than alcohol-only (AO) consumers. Within-subject comparisons restricted to AMED consumers revealed that alcohol consumption does not significantly differ between typical AMED and AO occasions. On past month heaviest drinking occasions, AMED users consume significantly less alcohol on AMED occasions when compared to AO occasions. AMED consumers experience significantly fewer negative consequences and risk-taking behavior on AMED occasions compared with AO occasions. Meta-analyses of subjective intoxication studies suggest that AMED consumption does not differentially affect subjective intoxication when compared to AO consumption. In conclusion, when compared to AO consumption, mixing alcohol with energy drink does not affect subjective intoxication and seems unlikely to increase total alcohol consumption, associated risk-taking behavior, nor other negative alcohol-related consequences. Further research may be necessary to fully reveal the effects of AMED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris C. Verster
- Division of PharmacologyUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Institute for Risk Assessment SciencesUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands
- Centre for Human PsychopharmacologySwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sarah Benson
- Centre for Human PsychopharmacologySwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sean J. Johnson
- Psychological Sciences Research GroupUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
- Centre for Research in BiosciencesUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Chris Alford
- Psychological Sciences Research GroupUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
- Centre for Research in BiosciencesUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Samuel Benrejeb Godefroy
- Department of Food Sciences, Food Risk Analysis and Regulatory Excellence Platform (FRAREP)Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF), Université LavalQuebec CityQCCanada
- Institute for Global Food SecurityQueen's UniversityBelfastUK
| | - Andrew Scholey
- Centre for Human PsychopharmacologySwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
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Tucker JS, Troxel WM, Ewing BA, D'Amico EJ. Alcohol mixed with energy drinks: Associations with risky drinking and functioning in high school. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 167:36-41. [PMID: 27522534 PMCID: PMC5037025 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/16/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mixing alcohol with energy drinks is associated with heavier drinking and related problems among college students. However, little is known about how high school drinkers who mix alcohol with energy drinks (AmED) compare to those who do not (AwoED). This study compares high school AmED and AwoED users on their alcohol use during middle and high school, as well as key domains of functioning in high school. METHODS Two surveys were conducted three years apart in adolescents initially recruited from 16 middle schools in Southern California. The analytic sample consists of 696 past month drinkers. Multivariable models compared AmED and AwoED users on alcohol use, mental health, social functioning, academic orientation, delinquency and other substance use at age 17, and on their alcohol use and related cognitions at age 14. RESULTS AmED was reported by 13% of past month drinkers. AmED and AwoED users did not differ on alcohol use or cognitions in middle school, but AmED users drank more often, more heavily, and reported more negative consequences in high school. AmED users were also more likely to report poor grades, delinquent behavior, substance use-related unsafe driving, public intoxication, and drug use than AwoED users in high school. Group differences were not found on mental health, social functioning, or academic aspirations. CONCLUSIONS AmED use is common among high school drinkers. The higher risk behavioral profile of these young AmED users, which includes drug use and substance use-related unsafe driving, is a significant cause for concern and warrants further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan S Tucker
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90407-2138, USA.
| | - Wendy M Troxel
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-2665, USA
| | - Brett A Ewing
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90407-2138, USA
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Kelly CK, Prichard JR. Demographics, Health, and Risk Behaviors of Young Adults Who Drink Energy Drinks and Coffee Beverages. JOURNAL OF CAFFEINE RESEARCH 2016; 6:73-81. [PMID: 27274417 PMCID: PMC4892198 DOI: 10.1089/jcr.2015.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The present study investigates risk behaviors, sleep habits, and mental health factors associated with caffeinated beverage use in young adults. Materials and Methods: Students from a midsize private university (n = 159) completed a 15-minute anonymous questionnaire, including questions on risk behaviors, sleep habits, alcohol, and caffeine consumption. We compared behaviors between the top ∼15% ("high end") of energy drink users (≥3/month) and coffee users (≥16/month) to those with less frequent or no caffeine consumption. Results: Caffeine consumption was frequent among young adults. In the last month, 36% of students had an energy drink, 69% had coffee or espresso, and 86% reported having any caffeine; however, the majority of students were unaware of the caffeine content in these beverages. High-end energy drink consumers reported more risk-taking behaviors (increased drug and alcohol use and less frequent seat belt use), sleep disturbances (later bedtimes, harder time falling asleep, and more all-nighters), and higher frequency of mental illness diagnoses than those who consumed fewer energy drinks. In contrast, the frequency of most risk behaviors, sleep disturbances, and mental illness diagnoses was not significantly different between the high-end and general population of coffee drinkers. Conclusion: Students with delayed sleep patterns, mental illness, and higher frequency of substance use and risk behaviors were more likely to be regular energy drink users but not regular coffee drinkers. It is unclear whether the psychoactive content in energy drinks results in different behavioral effects than just caffeine in coffee, and/or different personality/health populations are drawn to the two types of beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin K Kelly
- Department of Psychology, University of St. Thomas , St. Paul, Minnesota
| | - J Roxanne Prichard
- Department of Psychology, University of St. Thomas , St. Paul, Minnesota
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Rossheim ME, Thombs DL, Weiler RM, Barry AE, Suzuki S, Walters ST, Barnett TE, Paxton RJ, Pealer LN, Cannell B. Alcohol mixed with energy drink: Use may be a consequence of heavy drinking. Addict Behav 2016; 57:55-61. [PMID: 26890245 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2016.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In recent years, studies have indicated that consumers of alcohol mixed with energy drink (AmED) are more likely to drink heavily and experience more negative consequences than consumers who avoid these beverages. Although researchers have identified a number of plausible hypotheses that explain how alcohol-energy drink co-ingestion could cause greater alcohol consumption, there has been no postulation about reverse causal relations. This paper identifies several plausible hypotheses for the observed associations between AmED consumption and greater alcohol consumption, and provides initial evidence for one such hypothesis suggesting that heavy drinking may be a determinant of AmED use. METHOD Data collected from 511bar patrons were used to examine the plausibility of one of the proposed hypotheses, i.e., AmED is an artifact of heavy drinking. Associations between the consumption of an assortment of alcoholic beverage types and total alcohol consumption were examined at the event-level, to assess whether AmED is uniquely related with greater alcohol consumption. RESULTS Increased alcohol consumption was associated with greater odds of consuming most alcoholic beverage types; this association was not unique to AmED. CONCLUSIONS Results support the overlooked hypothesis that AmED use is an artifact of heavy drinking. Thus, AmED consumption may be a consequence or marker of heavier drinking. Much of the existing research on alcoholic beverage types is limited in its ability to implicate any specific type of drink, including AmED, as a cause of increased alcohol consumption and related harm. More rigorous study designs are needed to examine causal relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew E Rossheim
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, VA, United States.
| | - Dennis L Thombs
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Robert M Weiler
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, VA, United States
| | - Adam E Barry
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Sumihiro Suzuki
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Scott T Walters
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Tracey E Barnett
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Raheem J Paxton
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Lisa N Pealer
- Department of Behavioral and Community Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Brad Cannell
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
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12
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van de Loo AJAE, van Andel N, van Gelder CAGH, Janssen BSG, Titulaer J, Jansen J, Verster JC. The effects of alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED) on subjective intoxication and alertness: results from a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Hum Psychopharmacol 2016; 31:200-5. [PMID: 27062538 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this double blind placebo controlled study was to examine if specific effects on subjective intoxication and alertness-sleepiness ratings could be demonstrated after consuming alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED) when compared to consuming alcohol only (AO). METHODS 56 healthy volunteers rated their subjective intoxication on a scale ranging from 0 (sober) to 10 (highly intoxicated) at baseline, breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0%, and at BAC 0.08%, 0.05%, and 0.02%. Alertness-sleepiness was assessed with the Karolinska sleepiness scale. Scores of the AMED and AO condition, at each BAC level, were compared. RESULTS Subjective intoxication for AMED and AO did not differ significantly from each other at any BAC level, except for BAC 0.02%. A significant increase in sleepiness scores was found in the AO condition, whereas scores remained stable in the AMED condition. Sleepiness scores at BAC0.08% and 0.05% were significantly lower after AMED when compared to AO. However, the observed differences between AMED and AO were small and have no clinical relevance. CONCLUSION Mixing alcohol with energy drink had no overall masking effect on subjective intoxication caused by alcohol, nor had a relevant effect on subjective alertness-sleepiness ratings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nienke van Andel
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Boris S G Janssen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Titulaer
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jimmy Jansen
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joris C Verster
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
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13
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Miller KE, Quigley BM, Eliseo-Arras RK, Ball NJ. Alcohol Mixed with Energy Drink Use as an Event-Level Predictor of Physical and Verbal Aggression in Bar Conflicts. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2016; 40:161-9. [PMID: 26727532 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adult use of alcohol mixed with caffeinated energy drinks (AmEDs) has been globally linked with increased odds of interpersonal aggression, compared with the use of alcohol alone. However, no prior research has linked these behaviors at the event level in bar drinking situations. The present study assessed whether AmED use is associated with the perpetration of verbal and physical aggression in bar conflicts at the event level. METHODS In Fall 2014, a community sample of 175 young adult AmED users (55% female) completed a web survey describing a recent conflict experienced while drinking in a bar. Use of both AmED and non-AmED alcoholic drinks in the incident were assessed, allowing calculation of our main predictor variable, the proportion of AmEDs consumed (AmED/total drinks consumed). To measure perpetration of aggression, participants reported on the occurrence of 6 verbal and 6 physical acts during the bar conflict incident. RESULTS Linear regression analyses showed that the proportion of AmEDs consumed predicted scores for perpetration of both verbal aggression (β = 0.16, p < 0.05) and physical aggression (β = 0.19, p < 0.01) after controlling for gender, age, sensation-seeking and aggressive personality traits, aggressive alcohol expectancies, aggressogenic physical and social bar environments, and total number of drinks. CONCLUSIONS Results of this study suggest that in alcohol-related bar conflicts, higher levels of young adult AmED use are associated with higher levels of aggression perpetration than alcohol use alone and that the elevated risk is not attributable to individual differences between AmED users and nonusers or to contextual differences in bar drinking settings. While future research is needed to identify motivations, dosages, and sequencing issues associated with AmED use, these beverages should be considered a potential risk factor in the escalation of aggressive bar conflicts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen E Miller
- From the Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Brian M Quigley
- From the Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Rebecca K Eliseo-Arras
- From the Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Natalie J Ball
- From the Research Institute on Addictions, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
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14
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Verster JC, Benson S, Johnson SJ, Scholey A, Alford C. Mixing alcohol with energy drink (AMED) and total alcohol consumption: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Psychopharmacol 2016; 31:2-10. [PMID: 26781580 PMCID: PMC4765368 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that consuming alcohol mixed with energy drink (AMED) may increase total alcohol consumption. Aims of this systematic review and meta-analysis were (i) to compare alcohol consumption of AMED consumers with alcohol only (AO) consumers (between-group comparisons), and (ii) to examine if alcohol consumption of AMED consumers differs on AMED and AO occasions (within-subject comparisons). A literature search identified fourteen studies. Meta-analyses of between-group comparisons of N = 5212 AMED consumers and N = 12,568 AO consumers revealed that on a typical single drinking episode AMED consumers drink significantly more alcohol than AO consumers (p = 0.0001, ES = 0.536, 95%CI: 0.349 to 0.724). Meta-analyses of within-subject comparisons among N = 2871 AMED consumers revealed no significant difference in overall alcohol consumption on a typical drinking episode between AMED and AO occasions (p = 0.465, ES = -0.052, 95%CI: -0.192 to 0.088). In conclusion, between-group comparisons suggest that heavy alcohol consumption is one of the several phenotypical differences between AMED and AO consumers. Within-subject comparisons revealed, however, that AMED consumption does not increase the total amount of alcohol consumed on a single drinking episode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris C. Verster
- Division of PharmacologyUtrecht UniversityUtrechtThe Netherlands,Centre for Human PsychopharmacologySwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sarah Benson
- Centre for Human PsychopharmacologySwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sean J. Johnson
- Centre for Research in BiosciencesUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
| | - Andrew Scholey
- Centre for Human PsychopharmacologySwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Chris Alford
- Centre for Research in BiosciencesUniversity of the West of EnglandBristolUK
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15
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Motives for mixing alcohol with energy drinks and other non-alcoholic beverages and its effects on overall alcohol consumption among UK students. Appetite 2015; 96:588-597. [PMID: 26463015 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2015.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A UK student survey examined the motivations for consuming energy drinks alone and mixed with alcohol, and aimed to determine whether the type of motive had a differential effect on overall alcohol consumption. METHODS The online survey (N = 1873) assessed alcohol consumption and motivations for consumption when mixed with energy drinks (AMED) and mixed with other non-alcoholic beverages (AMOB) using a within-subject design. RESULTS The most frequent neutral motives reported for AMED consumption included "I like the taste" (66.5%), and "to celebrate a special occasion" (35.2%). 52.6% of AMED consumers reported consuming AMED for at least one of five negative motives, primarily "to get drunk" (45.6%). Despite these negative motives those students reported consuming significantly less alcohol and fewer negative alcohol-related consequences on AMED occasions compared to alcohol-only (AO) occasions. Although the motives for consuming AMED and AMOB were comparable, more participants reported consuming AMED "to celebrate a special occasion", "to get drunk", because they "received the drink from someone else" or "because others drink it as well". However, significantly more students reported consuming AMOB than AMED because "It feels like I can drink more alcohol". Alcohol consumption was significantly less on AMED occasions compared to AMOB occasions, and both occasions significantly less than AO occasions. CONCLUSION The majority of reasons for consuming AMED relate to neutral motives. Although 52.6% of students reported one or more negative motives for AMED consumption (predominantly "to get drunk") this had no differential effect on total alcohol consumption. The differences in motives suggest AMED is consumed more to enjoy special occasions and as a group-bonding experience, however alcohol consumption is significantly lower on such occasions in comparison to when AMOB or AO are consumed.
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Peacock A, Droste N, Pennay A, Miller P, Lubman DI, Bruno R. Typology of alcohol mixed with energy drink consumers: motivations for use. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2015; 39:1083-92. [PMID: 25988585 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research on alcohol mixed with energy drinks (AmED) has shown that use is typically driven by hedonistic, social, functional, and intoxication-related motives, with differential associations with alcohol-related harm across these constructs. There has been no research looking at whether there are subgroups of consumers based on patterns of motivations. Consequently, the aims were to determine the typology of motivations for AmED use among a community sample and to identify correlates of subgroup membership. In addition, we aimed to determine whether this structure of motivations applied to a university student sample. METHODS Data were used from an Australian community sample (n = 731) and an Australian university student sample (n = 594) who were identified as AmED consumers when completing an online survey about their alcohol and ED use. Participants reported their level of agreement with 14 motivations for AmED use; latent classes of AmED consumers were identified based on patterns of motivation endorsement using latent class analysis. RESULTS A 4-class model was selected using data from the community sample: (i) taste consumers (31%): endorsed pleasurable taste; (ii) energy-seeking consumers (24%): endorsed functional and taste motives; (iii) hedonistic consumers (33%): endorse pleasure and sensation-seeking motives, as well as functional and taste motives; and (iv) intoxication-related consumers (12%): endorsed motives related to feeling in control of intoxication, as well as hedonistic, functional, and taste motives. The consumer subgroups typically did not differ on demographics, other drug use, alcohol and ED use, and AmED risk taking. The patterns of motivations for the 4-class model were similar for the university student sample. CONCLUSIONS This study indicated the existence of 4 subgroups of AmED consumers based on their patterns of motivations for AmED use consistently structured across the community and university student sample. These findings lend support to the growing conceptualization of AmED consumers as a heterogeneous group in regard to motivations for use, with a hierarchical and cumulative class order in regard to the number of types of motivation for AmED use. Prospective research may endeavor to link session-specific motives and outcomes, as it is apparent that primary consumption motives may be fluid between sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Peacock
- School of Medicine (Psychology), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Nicolas Droste
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy Pennay
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,School of Population and Global Health (Centre for Health Equity), University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Miller
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Raimondo Bruno
- School of Medicine (Psychology), University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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