Poison control centers report hike in calls kids, caffeine
Calls to the U.S. poison centers concerning children consuming energy drinks spiked to about 20% in 2023, according to newly released data from America’s Poison Centers.
The steep increase in the volume of calls is even more shocking as the number has remained relatively steady in recent years.
The America’s Poison Centers said that there were 2,834 calls in 2023, a stark increase from 2022’s 2,323 calls.
Energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster contain much higher levels of caffeine than the standard soda or coffee — which can be dangerous for children.
The Food Drug Administration and the American Academy of Pediatrics advise that children — and even teenagers — avoid the pumped-up beverages to prevent caffeine-related complications, including caffeine poisoning and, in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
But the often brightly-colored drinks are sometimes mistakenly drunk by kids.
About 48% of the calls of kids drinking energy drinks in 2023 were reported as unintentional chugs, with the rate of cases almost doubling for 6-year-olds and 12-year-olds.
Signs of possible caffeine overdoses include an increased heart rate, heart palpitations, heightened blood pressure, anxiousness and rapid breathing.
The FDA considers 400 mg of caffeine — which is about two to three cups of the average coffee — safe for adults to consume. One can of Monster Energy contains 160 mg, and Bang boasts a staggering 300 mg.
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