Doctor warns of rising caffeine risks in self-mixed energy drinks

Self-mixed energy drinks made with powder or syrup have become increasingly popular among teenagers, but they can contain far more caffeine than standard products, ORF reports. Claudia Arnreiter, a paediatrician at Ordensklinikum Linz, warns that excessive caffeine can affect the heart, sleep and mental health.

A 250-millilitre can of a conventional energy drink contains about 80 milligrams of caffeine, according to the Linz hospital. Drinks mixed from powders or syrups often contain 150 to 200 milligrams per serving, Arnreiter said.

The European Food Safety Authority recommends that adolescents consume no more than three milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight per day, according to Arnreiter. For someone weighing 50 kilograms, that amounts to about 150 milligrams.

Easy to exceed recommended dose

Arnreiter said self-mixing was particularly problematic because the products are usually sold in large packages with measuring spoons or other dosing aids. Even so, users can easily exceed the recommended amount. At some products, adding only a few extra grams can raise the caffeine content above 200 milligrams. One serving shown by the hospital contained 160 milligrams of caffeine.

Austria currently has no age restriction on caffeinated drinks. Arnreiter is calling for stricter rules and said restrictions on sales to minors, such as those introduced in Norway and Poland, should also apply to energy drink powders and syrups.

Heart and sleep concerns

Excessive caffeine can affect the cardiovascular system. Teenagers sometimes arrive at hospital with symptoms including chest pain or shortness of breath, and high consumption of caffeinated drinks is occasionally identified as the cause.

Caffeine can also remain in the body for several hours and reduce important phases of deep sleep. Arnreiter said sufficient sleep was important for adolescent brain development. Poor sleep could create a cycle in which teenagers reach for caffeinated drinks more often the following day.

Arnreiter also criticised the marketing of the products. Bright packaging, fantasy names and social media advertising can appeal specifically to younger people, while such products are especially visible in gaming. Caffeine levels and warnings are often difficult to identify, she said. She advised parents to discuss the risks with their children and check recommended serving sizes. If the products are consumed, she recommends caffeine-free and sugar-free versions.