Study: Energy drinks should not be given to children

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Energy drinks have become increasingly popular but a new study shows they should not be given to young children.

The high-octane beverages are marketed as being a cheap way to get a boost of energy. But research shows more than 40 percent of energy drink-related calls to poison control centers in the U.S. are for kids under 6-years-old.

Many of those young patients presented symptoms of heart and central nervous system distress.

Energy drinks typically contain heavy amounts of sugar as well.

Experts say the danger of over consumption varies for kids and adults.