Caffeine: How Much Is Too Much?

Gr 7 Up—Caffeine is such a huge part of our culture that many barely give it any thought. However, it not only is a stimulant but has mildly addictive properties. In this video, the teen hosts, Hollis and Nathaniel, provide a lively and engaging dialogue about teen perception of the drug. They start with how accepted it is and then proceed to discuss the explosion of caffeinated products, focusing particularly on energy drinks and popular soft drinks. They go on to discuss its effects, the suggested daily dosages in comparison to what is actually contained in energy drinks, and how easily teens can overdose. The hosts examine side effects as well as the biochemical consequences caffeine has on the brain, cardiac system, and kidneys. In addition, they point out the prevalence of advertising for caffeinated drinks in sports programs aimed at the 13–25 age group. They also address the extremely dangerous effects of unregulated powdered supplements, many of which have very high caffeine levels and which can be easily purchased. They note that there are documented cases of teens dying from too much caffeine. Interspersed throughout are interviews with medical, health, and fitness experts