Comment
I anxiously opened this case expecting to find how the amount of caffeine and other ingredients affect one’s health. But, I only found a discussion on sugar. I looked up the Wikipedia article on one of the drinks, Red Bull, and found that the high content of caffeine in it acts on the inner surface of blood vessels, the endothelial lining, and also interferes with normal blood coagulation. Small amounts of cocaine have been found in it. These seem more significant than calories. The caffeine makes you feel energized and more awake and the cocaine, if enough to have an effect, may reduce normal pain sensations. So, how about revising this case to show the potential detrimental effects of the ingredients other than sugars. I noticed in the Wikipedia article the recomendations for athletes to keep hydration and such power drinks are not recommended.
Comments submitted 01/30/2010 by:
Robert Skinner, PhD
Professor of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
SkinnerRobertD@uams.edu
Authors’ Reply
The purpose of the case is really to get students to realize the difference between what serves as energy-producing compounds and what are stimulants. The role of trace amounts of cocaine is not within the scope of this case study.
