The Ministry of Health and Food Hygiene has urged people to avoid energy drinks, particularly children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers.
In a notice published on Wednesday, the ministry also advised people with diabetes and those sensitive to caffeine to avoid such beverages.
According to the ministry, scientific evidence indicates that a healthy adult can consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. However, people belonging to high-risk groups have been advised to avoid caffeine-containing energy drinks.
What Is Caffeine?
Caffeine is a natural stimulant that primarily stimulates the brain and central nervous system. It is commonly found in coffee, tea, chocolate and various energy drinks.
What Does Caffeine Do?
Caffeine helps reduce fatigue and drowsiness and keeps people awake. It can also increase blood pressure and accelerate the heart rate. Additionally, it stimulates the kidneys, potentially increasing the frequency of urination. It can temporarily boost alertness and energy levels.
Effects of Excessive Caffeine Consumption
For a healthy adult, consuming up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day—approximately three to four cups of coffee—is generally considered safe. However, consuming more than this amount may cause the following problems:
– Excessive restlessness, anxiety and nervousness
– Difficulty falling asleep at night
– Headaches and dizziness
– Dehydration or a reduction in the body’s water levels