Researchers at Wake Forest University have determined that mixing energy drinks and alcohol isn't actually as good for you as many teenagers think, despite that extra taurine.
The study found that college students who drink Red Bull and vodka consume 36 percent more alcohol in the average night than people who prefer less energetic cocktails. In addition, those drinkers were twice as likely to get into a car with an intoxicated driver, twice as likely to require medical attention and twice as likely to take advantage of someone sexually. Nothing like a massive dose of caffeine to keep you upright past the pass-out point.
A quick glance at the clever names of over 200 Red Bull-laced cocktails listed on drinknation.com indicates that this study isn't news to many consumers. Anyone who orders a "Bar Slut," "Lick A Dick" or "Wouldn't You Like to Have Sex With the Bartender?" should probably have a clear idea of what's in store.
The lesson for all self-respecting college students? Normal binge drinking is much safer when you forego the wings.
This article appears in Nov 14-20, 2007.