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Jonathan Carmichael
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Joined: 05 May 2008
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 Posted: 05/05/08 - 13:28 Post subject: Is mixing Alcohol with * Red Bull * Harmless?
Energy Drinks
"Energy drinks" are meant to supply mental and physical stimulation for a short period of time. They usually contain caffeine, taurine (an amino acid, one of the building blocks of protein) and glucuronolactone, a carbohydrate.
People drink them to keep up their energy during periods of intense physical activity or drink them after exercise to quench their thirst. But rather than re-hydrating their bodies, these drinks may actually lead to dehydration.
Because of the effects they have, some "energy drinks" may have to be regulated as natural health products under the Natural Health Product (NHP) Regulations, depending on their ingredients (such as caffeine and vitamins), and the claims they make. Under the regulations, natural health products have to undergo a review process for their quality and safety. They also have to display recommended conditions for use, as well as cautions.
Currently, only Red Bull Energy Drink is authorized for sale as a natural health product and bears a natural health product number (NPN). The safety of other "energy drinks" (including those listed above) have not yet been evaluated under the NHP Regulations.
Four reports of adverse reactions involving "energy drinks" similar to Red Bull Energy Drink, have been reported to Health Canada.
Health Risks of Energy Drinks:
In the four reports of adverse reactions involving "energy drinks," symptoms included:
Electrolyte disturbances;
Nausea and vomiting; and
Heart irregularities.
These four incidents involved improper use of "energy drinks," such as drinking them with alcohol or in greater quantities than recommended.
Because of the nature of the adverse reaction reports, it is not possible to tell if the symptoms reported were due to the effect of combining the "energy drink" with alcohol, or due to alcohol itself.
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