• Home

Consume drinks with natural ingredients

DUBAI - Health experts, while welcoming the government decision to regulate the sale of power drinks, have called upon people to depend on natural ingredients for the required dash of energy.

The experts also say that the consumption of the right kind of liquids could be helpful to stay properly hydrated during summer.

According to estimates, the UAE consumes millions of litres of energy drinks each year.

However, health experts warn that consumption of energy drinks, especially by children, pregnant women, diabetic patients and those with caffeine intolerance, could be putting their health at risk.

“There have been no scientific studies to prove that energy drinks are therapeutic or safe to consume,” said Dr Nabila Shafqat, clinical nutritionist at the Canadian Specialist Hospital.

In children, power drinks can cause hyperactivity and nervousness while it can increase the heart rate in adults, even though for a short time. Dr Nabila warns that the drinks could be addictive. “Once that extra boost of energy is taken away, you feel lethargic and consequently reach out for another can and then another,” she explained.

The UAE has announced regulations to curb the sale of energy drinks to children under 16, pregnant women, lactating mothers, diabetic and heart patients and those with caffeine intolerance. The guidelines also call for prominent health warnings and separate storage areas.

“The product has spread in the market widely and is largely consumed by those who do not have enough awareness about this new item and its consequences on the UAE market,” said Saleh Al Badri, Acting Director-General of the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA). The regulations are being implemented at the GCC level.

According to Nicole Lau, Director of New Age Beverages, fluid intake is important and consuming the right kind of beverages will help one feel better and feel more refreshed. “Summer in the UAE this year started early. Staying hydrated is very important because under such extreme temperature, our body loses more water through perspiration,” she said. “Water is always an ideal choice but it’s tasteless.” “Organic drinks have a higher nutrient content and are grown in the best way without toxins used in conventional agricultural practices. It is always advisable for consumers to check the ingredient content of their purchases,” advised Nicole.

Dr Nabila also advises a daily intake of at least 2.5 litres of water. “Homemade energy drinks are a healthier and safer option,” she said, suggesting a freshly squeezed lemonade or orange drink. Power beverages contain caffeine, sugar and other additives that can possibly have psychological and physiological effects as well as increased alertness.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com