Close on the heels of Maggi controversy raging across the country, the danger lurking in energy drinks must also be taken serious account of, specialists warned on Sunday. This is not just because of the sheer volume of the energy-stimulating products in the market places but also for the easy access the minors have to them, they said.
Contents like carbonated water, electrolytes, sugar and added ingredients like caffeine and other preservatives help them stand out among the other drinks which appeals particularly to the youngsters. “In the contemporary scenario, it is a common psychology among people of all age groups, especially the minors, that such drinks provide energy to the body,” said Dietician Richa Kukreti, Doon Hospital, Dehradun.
Though they provide a boost of energy due to high sugar and caffeine content it is a lesser known fact that it has various side effects too on our body, she added.“Young children and even adults complain of constant headache and migraines, insomnia, nervousness, addiction, vomiting, dehydration, dental problems which is a result of excessive intake of such energy drinks,” she said. The dietician further said, “Caffeine directly affects the iron content of the body and preservatives added attack our immune system.”
Speaking against the packing techniques of such drinks, she even complained of how different companies are using plastic and tin cans to sell their products. “Selling eatables and drinks in plastic packs should be strictly banned. It is cancerous and adds to the level of danger. Whereas using tin cans is even more harmful being poisonous,” Richa told.
“As an alternative to these energy drinks, home- made drinks should be preferred. A glass of water with two-three tablespoon sugar, salt, cumin seed powder and lime juice will provide enough energy to our system,” she suggested. Curd, coconut water and regular intake of approximately 3-4 litres of water, proper diet with fruits will save us from using any such product, she added.
The Food Safety and Standard Authority of India in May 2015 banned manufacture, sale, distribution or import of Monster Energy Drink in India after Centre of Science and Environment (CSE) Study gave an alarming report on Caffeine content in such drinks. Soon after these orders, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decided to conduct a laboratory test on other energy drinks as well.