Issue date: 11/17/06 Section: News

Media Credit: Julian Lim

Caffeine addiction is ruining the health of many young adults. Unlike tobacco or alcohol, the danger is often overlooked, and the consequences sometimes mean a trip to the hospital.

The average college student frequents places like Starbucks, doing homework while putting loads of caffeine into their bodies.

The popularity of energy drinks has made them available everywhere. They are the new coffee for this generation, yet there are serious health problems that come with too much caffeine.

According to the article, "Doctor: Energy Drinks Pack Danger With Punch" at yahoo.com, Dr. Otto Constantino said, "It would take several pots of coffee to equate to one or two cans of caffeine in this drink." He also stated the risks of too much caffeine: anxiousness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pains and palpitations or feeling like their heart is racing.

"We know almost nothing about these drinks and what their effects are both in the short-term and long-term period," Constantino stated.

The bookstore on campus sells plenty of caffeine, taurine and gaurana laced beverages. "We order 3-4 cases a week," said Jeanne Madeira, the customer service manager for the bookstore. "The sales of energy drinks have increased this semester," she added.

Erin Dennis, a LPC student and bookstore employee said, "We go through energy drinks more than water and juice." She also said "once or twice a day we have to restock the energy drinks."

LPC student and athletic coach David Peterson assists LPC players before every game, making sure they are healthy enough to play, both physically and mentally. He warns players not to have soda, coffee, energy drinks or candy. Players seek a temporary high or buzz, but later they will feel the negative side-effects effects of caffeine, such as cramps, stomachaches, nausea and feeling drained.

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