Energy drinks packed with caffeine can change the way the heart beats, say scientists, advising children and people with some health conditions to avoid the drinks.
"Until now, we haven't known exactly what effect these energy drinks have on the function of the heart," said researcher Jonas Dorner. "The amount of caffeine is up to three times higher than in other caffeinated beverages like coffee or cola. "There are many side effects known to be associated with a high intake of caffeine, including rapid heart rate, palpitations, rise in blood pressure and, in the most severe cases, seizures or sudden death." During their study, the researchers gave the participants a drink containing 32mg per 100ml of caffeine and 400mg per 100ml of another chemical, taurine.