Buzz of Bull all in mind

Energy drink Red Bull does not improve physical performance or prolong the buzz of alcohol, scientists claimed today.

Their research followed a survey looking at the effects of energy drinks among a group of 136 nightclub revellers.

Most of them combined the drinks with alcohol in order to alter its effects. They believed beverages such as Red Bull boosted the stimulant or lowered the depressive effect of alcohol.

The main effects of mixing energy drinks with alcohol reported by the group were happiness, euphoria, being extrovert and increased vigour.

As a result of the survey, the researchers decided to carry out a controlled study of 14 healthy male volunteers.

Each completed four sessions during which they were given water, alcohol, Red Bull, or alcohol plus Red Bull before a cycling endurance test.

The results showed that Red Bull combined with alcohol did not improve performance or influence the biological effects of alcohol.

Professor Maria Lucia Souza Formigoni of the Federal University of Sao Paulo, who led the research, said: "I think the main message of our study is that this kind of beverage, at least in the tested doses, does not increase people's performance in physical activities or reduce alterations induced by acute alcohol ingestion."

The findings were reported in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.

A spokesman for Red Bull said: "Whilst we do not promote Red Bull as a mixer with alcohol as this might impair its positive effects, there is also no reason why it should not, like any other drink, be mixed with alcohol.

"Last year 1.6 billion cans were sold around the world and people, including leading athletes, have found it works for them."