Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have published an article warning consumers to limit consumption of energy drinks that contain high levels of caffeine. The researchers reported that some energy drinks can contain many times the amount of caffeine as a regular cola drink. As a result, they recommend energy drinks carry a warning label that shows their caffeine content and includes information about possible health risks.

Because caffeinated energy drinks are marketed as supplements and not as regular soft drinks, they are not required to display their caffeine content and are not subject to the Food and Drug Administration's regulations regarding caffeine content in beverages.

Excessive caffeine consumption may result in fast heart rates (tachycardia), nausea and vomiting, difficulty sleeping, increased urination, anxiety, tremors, and depression.

Given that many high energy drinks are being marketed to children and young people, it’s important to be aware of how much caffeine your children are consuming. In addition, because caffeine acts as an appetite suppressant, children may not be getting proper nutrition.

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