The Canadian Medical Association Journal is voicing alarm over the increasing popularity of highly caffeinated energy drinks among kids and teens.
The journal says the drinks have crossed the line from beverages to drugs delivered as tasty syrups.
An editorial in the journal says some of the drinks contain the caffeine equivalent of 10 cans of cola.
It raises particular concern about the fact that advertising for the drinks targets kids and teens.
Health Canada suggests kids under 12 shouldn’t consume more than 85 milligrams of caffeine a day, which is about a can or two of cola, and even less among younger age groups.
The journal says Health Canada should mandate clearer labelling on energy drinks and should bar producers from advertising to children.
