Interesting information on Energy Drinks

[Krista Wells]

Master Strongheart received this email because she is on the board of the Communities that Care. For those of you who don't know what that is its: Mercer Island Communities That Care (MICTC) is a coalition of concerned parents, youth and community members who are joined around the common purpose of reducing the harmful effects of underage drinking and other drug use among Mercer Island youth. Coalition efforts take on a public health, not a moralistic perspective, using the latest brain science and prevention technology. For more information on this organization you can also visit their webpage at http://www.mercergov.org/Page.asp?NavID=1843 http://www.mercerisland-ctc.com/index.html Anyway, we thought you might be interested in knowing more about some of these energy drinks. I had no idea about this, you can decide for yourself on the legislation of course but the information is interesting.

( The following is a modified message we are sharing on this website. if you have questions or comments let us know. We are wanting to educate; not influence politics--MIMA) "DFC Coalition Members and Friends: There is potentially “landmark” legislation pending in Olympia that could ban the sale of Alcohol Energy Drinks in Washington State. Such a ban would greatly enhance the safety of youth in our community and be the first of its kind in the country. More information on Alcoholic Energy Drinks can be found here: http://www.marininstitute.org/site/campaigns/alcoholic-energy-drinks.html Consuming high amounts of caffeine and alcohol: the “wide-awake drunk” who does not know the extent of his/her intoxication, resulting in an increased danger to self and others; those who are frequent consumers of alcoholic energy drinks drink greater quantities of alcohol than individuals who do not drink caffeinated energy drinks (Miller, 2008a; Oteri et al., 2007; Arria et al., in press); and the broad appeal to young people, teens to twenty-somethings, who are most vulnerable and have the most to lose. Keep in mind that any real-life examples would enhance any comments given to the committee. “Caffeinated and stimulant-enhanced malt beverages are a danger to those consuming them and to the general public. Studies show that those who consume these drinks tend to drink more than those consuming beverages without these stimulants, resulting in higher levels of intoxication and more risky behavior, including drunk driving, violence, sexual assault and suicide. The drinks appeal to young people-- teens to twenty-somethings--who are most vulnerable and have the most to lose.” Derek Franklin Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your continued efforts advocating on behalf of the health and safety of Mercer Island youth! Derek"