Mixing of Alcohol with Caffeinated Drinks Attenuate Depressant Effects

1. Mixing of Alcohol with Caffeinated Drinks Attenuate Depressant Effects Mixing of Alcohol with Caffeinated Drinks Attenuate Depressant Effects Mixing of alcohol with any type of caffeinated drink can be dangerous because the stimulant effects of caffeinated drinks can mask alcohol’s depressant effects. By reducing the sense of intoxication due to the drunk-awake state, a person is likely to witness severe problems in cognitive, decision-making and assessment abilities. As a result, users are much more prone to unintentional (e.g. tripping, falling, etc.) and intentional injuries (e.g. suicide). Moreover, it has been proven that people indulging in mixing alcohol with caffeinated drinks tend to consume more alcohol and for a longer duration. Therefore, it is essential to discourage such practices by spreading awareness on its repercussions. Caffeinated drinks and their effects Undoubtedly, coffee is one of the most common fixations in the world. With the consumption coffee increasing to 62 percent this year from 57 percent in 2016, an increased number of American adults are banking on a cup of Joe to kick off their day. of The feeling after coffee comes from the fact that it is somewhat like any other drug. In fact, it is a stimulant that is responsible for boosting cognitive functioning and increasing dependence at the same time. invigorating witnessed sipping on Like coffee, other stimulants, such as caffeinated drinks, cocaine and specific prescription drugs (amphetamines), have similar effects on the body. Stimulants are associated with negative health consequences that become worse with an increase in frequency and abuse. Unlike coffee, other stimulants generally do not have a built-in prohibiting mechanism that signals the brain to stop consumption when the body enters the dysphoric range due to substance abuse. This mechanism is not as prominent when other stimulants are involved. However, when caffeinated drinks are mixed with alcohol, it beguiles the brain from not feeling the languor triggered by the latter. By reducing the sense of perceived intoxication, www.sovcal.com

2. the mixing of alcohol with caffeinated drinks leads to a drunk-awake state of mind that can ultimately prove harmful for the individual. The stimulant effects of caffeinated drinks generally assist in attenuating the depressant effects of alcohol, which leads to the masking of repercussions. It further leads to more dangerous drinking practices, risk behavior and poor assessment skills. Risk of injuries higher in case of alcohol mixed with energy drinks The researchers from the University of Victoria’s the Centre for Addictions Research of BC (CARBC), conducted one of the first systematic studies to find the intentional and unintentional ramifications of the use of alcohol mixed energy drinks (AmED). The study, “Alcohol mixed with energy drinks and risk of injury: A systematic review,” published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, peer-reviewed journals from 1981 to 2016 and isolated 13 articles conforming to the research. The researchers found 10 articles that reinforced the dangers of using AmED, which were greater than merely drinking. Some of the additional risks associated with it are as following: Increased number of unintentional injuries, such as falls or motor vehicle accidents. Increased number of intentional injuries caused due to fights or acts of physical violence. Rather than feeling tired and drained out, people who consume AmED stay out longer, consume more alcohol and engage in risky behavior. “We know that these are risk factors for alcohol-related injuries, and some research has suggested that people who have these traits might prefer the awake-drunk state that you get from mixing alcohol and energy drinks, said Audra Roemer, M.Sc., lead author of the study, “This could be a population that’s at even higher risk for injuries.” With the growing popularity of AmED in America, public health experts are concerned about the easy availability of premixed drinks at liquor stores or mixing of alcohol and energy drinks, such as Red Bull and vodka, which can make one more vulnerable to injuries. Seek help for dependence on alcohol Anybody can develop dependence to alcohol, irrespective of his or her age, ethnicity, gender and social status. Alcohol has the potential to alter the brain, thereby leading to memory loss, cognitive impairment and mood swings. People with the problem of alcoholism or those with alcohol use disorder (AUD), also experience changes in appetite, problems at work, lack of interest in things, irritation, etc. Although getting over one’s dependence is an enormous task, sobriety is a possibility regardless of the stage of dependence a person is in. However, the most favorable outcomes are possible with early intervention. www.sovcal.com

3. If you or your loved one is battling alcohol abuse, reach out to Sovereign Health of California to access our state-of-the-art alcohol addiction treatment centers that specialize in delivering evidence-based intervention plans. We understand the many facets of dependence and the importance of tailoring treatment according to an individual’s needs. Call at our 24/7 helpline number 866-629-0442 to locate the finest drug and alcohol treatment centers for comprehensive and holistic treatment programs. www.sovcal.com