Caffeinated Alcoholic Beverages Pose Significant Risks for Binge Drinking
What can happen when you mix a significant amount of caffeine and alcohol? The result can be an increased chance of an individual engaging in binge drinking activities according to a PE News report.
A recent study by Loma Linda researchers found that individuals who drink caffeinated alcoholic beverages are twice as likely as other drinkers to binge drink. They are also twice as likely to act inappropriately with dangerous activities or behavior.
There are specific drinks that have gained popular status among drinkers, including Four Loko, that have contributed to binge drinking. These drinks also introduced greater health risks when alcohol and caffeine are put together in large doses.
Researchers at the Loma Linda University Medical Center surveyed 1.4 million California residents and found that 25 percent of men and 10 percent of women admitted to engaging in binge drinking activities. When caffeinated alcohol drinks were added, the same users were twice as likely to binge drink, drive while drunk, become injured or find themselves in a situation where they are taken advantage of, sexually.
If the binge drinking is taking place by an individual with a mental disorder, there is a greater risk of suicide or reckless behavior.
The results of this study prove to be troubling as the sale of caffeinated alcoholic beverages continues to rise, by as much as 70 times higher than just a few years ago. The drinks are also growing in popularity among the underage drinking crowd.
According to alcohol researchers, the latest craze of alcoholic energy drinks is primarily aimed at the younger audience, which is complicating the issue. Until legislators have solid proof the drinks pose actual harm, regulations are difficult. This research is a step in the right direction.
