1. Jeremy is a soccer player and he is always looking for ways to improve his game. His friend suggested that he tries an energy drink. What do you think? Should Jeremy be drinking an energy drink before a game? The answer is: NO! Energy drinks are beverages that contain mostly sugar, caffeine and other ingredients. According to the industry, they provide energy to improve physical activity and mental alertness… but is this true? Health Canada does not recommend energy drinks for children and teenagers.

2. Why not an energy drink before a game? It’s just not the right choice! You need to drink water and avoid beverages with too much sugar and caffeine to prevent dehydration and other discomforts. WATER! Water is your best choice for peak performance!!! Signs of dehydration: Thirst Dry mouth Weakness Muscle cramps Dizziness Too much sugar can cause problems such as: Bloating Nausea Thirst Stomach discomfort They can lead to poor performance

3. Side effects of too much caffeine Lack of concentration Vomiting Shaking Trouble sleeping Muscle cramps Headaches Irregular heart beat Dehydration Caution! These drinks can be dangerous for your health! - Energy drinks may contain up to 340 mg of caffeine per can. - Health Canada recommends that children between 10 and 12 years of age should not consume more than 85 mg of caffeine a day. ________________________________________________ - Caffeine can be found on energy drink labels listed as : guarana (the highest source of caffeine known), yerba mate and kola nut. - Watch for caffeine in chocolate, certain soft drinks …

4. Did you know? Natural Health products (NHP): Not without danger! Energy drinks are categorized as NHP; however, it doesn’t mean they are healthy. What is said about ingredients such as : taurine, ginseng, Gingko biloba have not been scientifically proven to be safe. How much sugar? Some energy drinks may contain up to 9 packages of sugar per can! Ginseng Taurine Gingko biloba A safe product for adults doesn’t mean it’s safe for children or teenagers!

5. Instead of drinking an energy drink, what should Jeremy do: Drink water before, during and after his game. Have a good night sleep Eat healthy foods from Canada’s Food Guide www.healthcanada.gc.ca/foodguide Vitalité Health Network- Zone 5 & 6, February, 2011