GUPTA: The Senate held a hearing this week on energy drinks. It's a $9 billion industry now. The question they were trying to answer, is it appropriate to market them to children? You've seen these energy drinks. They have amazing names like Monster Energy, for example, Rock Star, Red Bull. A lot of people drinking them. They want a quick pick-me-up. But the mix of caffeine and stimulants could be dangerous for heart people with heart problems. That was one of the conclusions. We don't know much about the long-term effects. For example, this one can has about as much caffeine as seven cans of soda. It kind of looks like motor oil as well. That can be a particular concern for children and teens. That was part of the discussion. Simply because we don't know what the long-term effects of these drinks can be. So the American Medical Association wants to ban energy drink ads aimed at anyone under 18. So, that's what they're discussing. If you or your kids want to keep going longer, get that quick burst of energy without getting the crash afterwards, there's some probably better alternatives. First of all, just drinking lots of water. People are chronically dehydrated. And also focusing on snacks high in protein. Greek yogurt, for example, chicken, eggs, or even things like -- just almonds and cheese. These things can give you that kick without giving you the crash, and they can also help you chase life the healthy way. Now, before we go, a quick programming note: next weekend here on SGMD, we're going to get some real answers about something I've been investigating for quite some time, marijuana. All of it is leading up to my new documentary which is called "Weed" -- how bad is it for you and could it actually do you some good? Tune in next week 8:00 p.m. Eastern, right here on CNN. Time now to get you back into "THE CNN NEWSROOM" with Anna Coren.
Healthy Alternatives to Energy Drinks