Health Canada's Proposed Approach to Managing Caffeinated Energy Drinks - 2011 Consultation Document. Help on accessing alternative formats, such as Portable Document Format (PDF), Microsoft Word and PowerPoint (PPT) files, can be obtained in the alternate format help section. Background In recent years, an increasing number of caffeinated beverages have been introduced into the Canadian marketplace. Some of these products are known as "Energy Drinks", which usually contain a range of unique ingredients and may feature health claims related to their capacity to restore energy and alertness.
A common substance found in most Energy Drinks is caffeine at levels ranging from those found in a weak cup of coffee to much higher levels. These products also generally contain other ingredients such as vitamins and minerals, and may contain various herbals. This is consistent with the policy intent of the NHPR, as outlined in the Assessment of the potential health risks: Health Canada's proposed approach to manage caffeinated Energy Drinks: 1. 2. 3. 4. Conclusion Comments Related Resources. Sugar: The Truth and What you need to know. What Are The Dangers Of Caffeine Abuse? Many people drink caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea and energy drinks for a boost of energy to start the day or stay awake and focused throughout the day or evening.
Caffeine stimulates your central nervous system, so it can make you feel more alert and energized, but excess use of caffeine can result in a variety of negative side effects. Most individuals can consume 300 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is considered moderate intake, without experiencing serious side effects. Caffeine content for beverages can vary widely depending on the size and brand of the drink, but in general you can drink approximately three 6-ounce cups of coffee, which equal 300 milligrams of caffeine. Tea, cocoa, soda, and energy drinks may also contain caffeine, and intake of these beverages also should be limited.
Ingesting large amounts of caffeine, 1,000 milligrams or 6 cups of coffee per day, may lead to physical side effects caused by habitual use and the stimulating effects of caffeine. Sugar Stacks - How Much Sugar Is in That? Hidden Dangers of Energy Drinks. Information for Parents on Caffeine in Energy Drinks - Health Canada Backgrounder October 2011. October 2011 News Release: Harper Government Announces New Measures to Support Families - New Approach on Energy Drinks How much caffeine is safe for my children? Health Canada recommends the maximum daily caffeine intake for children under 12 should not exceed 2.5 mg/kg of body weight. Based on average body weights of children, this means a maximum of: 45 mg for children aged four to six, about one 355ml can of cola 62.5 mg for children aged seven to nine, about one and a half 355ml cans of cola 85 mg for children aged 10 to 12, nearly two 355ml cans of cola Teens should follow the precautionary recommendations of 2.5 mg/kg body weight.
Older and heavier adolescents may be able to consume up to the adult limit: 400 mg/day. Which products have caffeine in them? Caffeine is found in a variety of products -- coffee, tea, chocolate, cola and certain medications as well as energy drinks and so-called energy shots. What should I know about energy drinks and my kids? Caffeine withdrawal symptoms. Starbucks Coffee Calorie Counter (CalorieLab) Amount of sugar in coke. Explore our Menu.