Fizzled out!

RUNNING dry: Newman College pupils (from left) Maria Humphries, Patrick Scott and Kyle Rhodes with some of the banned energy drinks

NEWMAN RC College has banned high-caffeine energy drinks such as Lucozade Sport and Red Bull in a bid to get pupils healthy and aid concentration.

Teachers believe it is the first school in Oldham to stop students guzzling the popular sugar-laden drinks, which are banned in at least four European countries. Pupils who have them confiscated are given a token to buy a healthier option from the canteen. Parents are also being encouraged not to let their children drink them outside school.

The move was introduced at the Chadderton school after half-term following research by assistant head Glyn Potts.

A study shows children who have energy drinks before or during school experience dramatic effects on their behaviour and concentration.

Mr Potts said energy drinks contained up to 240mg or more of caffeine a can - compared with 30mg in a cup of coffee or 23mg in Coke. They also have over 27g of sugar - more than double the recommended daily amount for children.

Mr Potts added: “France banned energy drinks when an 18 year old died after drinking four cans in a row. They cause some children to behave erratically and can have a seriously detrimental effect on the ability to learn and concentrate.

“Energy drinks don’t quench thirst, they make you want to drink more liquid. They slow your body’s ability to absorb water, which is necessary for good health and concentration.

“Common side effects of energy drinks included chest pains, irritability, headaches, restlessness and insomnia.

“Newman RC College encourages parents and carers not to let their children drink them or buy them on the way to school, nor to include them in packed lunches.We have banned the consumption of energy drinks on the campus.”

Head teacher Mike McGhee said: “Students have shown they respect this decision and they have co-operated well. We are also very grateful to the parents for supporting us with this.”