WEDNESDAY, Dec. 29 (HealthDay News) -- An energy drink may improve individuals' reaction times, but improvements may dwindle with increasing doses, and acute caffeine consumption among adolescents has many effects that may be influenced by gender, according to two studies published in the December issue of Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology.
In the first study, Meagan A. Howard and Cecile A. Marczinski, Ph.D., of Northern Kentucky University in Highland Heights, analyzed data from 80 adults who were randomized to receive Red Bull at three doses ranging from 1.8 to 5.4 ml/kg, a placebo beverage, or no drink. They performed a cued go/no go behavioral control test before and after drinking the beverage. The energy drink was associated with decreased reaction times, higher ratings of stimulation, and lower ratings of mental fatigue. The largest improvements in reaction time were seen with the lowest dose, and improvements diminished with increasing doses.
In the other study, Jennifer C. Temple, Ph.D., of the University at Buffalo in New York, and colleagues analyzed data from 52 adolescents aged 12 to 17 who answered questions on their caffeine use, and consumed drinks containing dosages of caffeine ranging from 0 to 200 mg. Those who took in more caffeine ate more sugary snack foods in the lab when they were made available. Boys were more likely than girls to say they consumed caffeine to feel a rush or get energy or for athletic performance.
"Adolescents are among the fastest growing consumers of caffeine and yet very few empirical studies have focused on this population. It is imperative that we understand the impact of caffeine use on adolescents," Temple and colleagues conclude.
Full Text - Howard/Marczinski
Full Text - Temple
