Collegiate student-athletes are no strangers to a constant demand of high performance levels. Many times the absolute best is expected of them in all aspects of their lives, with the obvious greatest emphasis being academically and athletically. It is no surprise that these student-athletes are constantly finding themselves short on time and energy. As a result, caffeine boosts are often what people turn to.
In a recent Yahoo! Health article, we are warned of the negative side-effects of the caffeine drink 5-hour Energy. The story describes a possible link between the drink and 13 deaths in the past year. (Read Article) Unfortunately, 5-hour Energy is not the only caffeine drink ever linked to deaths. Due to the effects of increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and sleep disturbances, energy drinks should be used very cautiously. In addition, NCAA athletes should be particulary careful when consuming energy drinks, as some could even cause a positive drug test.
The NCAA classifies caffeine as the stimulant it is. The institution regulates caffeine intake in athletes through their urine. The NCAA states that any athlete with a caffeine concentration in thier urine that exceeds 15 micorgrams/mL would be considered a positive drug test. Many factors such as body type and hydration level could play an important role in how concentrated caffeine levels are at any given moment, but student-athletes should be particularty cautious of caffeine levels in any energy drinks they may consume. Do not let one small decision effect your ELIGIBILITY.