A recent tragic story told of an 18-year-old student who died from a cardiac arrhythmia and seizure as a direct result of powdered caffeine use. In fact, the makers of the 5-Hour Energy drink are being sued by the states of Oregon, Washington and Vermont, and the FDA is starting to look into the caffeine industry.
Believe it or not, caffeine is being infused into ice cream, potato chips, waffles and beef jerky! And the ever-increasing stressed-out and on-edge nation we live in needs to take a closer look at caffeine consumption and its effects.
Caffeine is the most prevalent substance of addiction in the world, with 80% to 90% of U.S. adults and a slightly smaller number of 7- to 18-year-olds taking in caffeine on a regular basis—for most, daily. Coffee is the most prevalent form, followed by sodas, energy drinks, then tea and chocolate. The average adult consumes 280 mg a day and the average teen takes in about 125-175 mg daily.
Medical Marijuana vs. Other Prescription Pain Medication: Is there a Difference?
With medical marijuana now legal in nearly half of U.S. states as well as Washington, D.C., little remains known about the long-term benefits of the drug, while evidence of its negative effects is plenty.
According to a recent Forbes.com article, the odds do not appear to be in marijuana’s favor. “The science so far doesn’t look good,” the article states. “At this point, despite thousands of studies, there is very little evidence that cannabis is good for any specific medical condition.”
Dr. Karl Benzio, founder, executive director and a psychiatrist at Lighthouse Network (www.844LifeChange.org), an addiction and mental health counseling helpline, says that while marijuana may cause a temporary reprieve from symptoms, it’s simply a Band-Aid for most conditions, and the harmful effects can last a lifetime.
“Presently, marijuana has no real scientifically strong data supporting its benefits, but there is much evidence of its damages,” Benzio said. “At the same time, although other medications such as narcotic painkillers and benzodiazepines, which include Xanax, provide some significant benefits, they are also addicting and cause short-term and long-term cognitive and mood complications.”
Tune in to hear Lighthouse Network’sKarl Benzio, M.D., on the air!
YES-FM
Program: AM Mayhem with Tommy Briggs
Topic: “Teen’s Death Puts New Focus on Dangers of Powdered Caffeine”
Check out other media interviews including TV appearances, radio programs, print features and articles here…
Dr. Karl Benzio in The Christian Post
The Top 19 Physical, Psychological, Spiritual and Societal Reasons Marijuana Should Not be Legal
Marijuana, especially the legalization of it for recreational or medicinal purposes, has been a controversial topic since the ’60s. Overwhelming data exists about the harm this chemical causes, but many people with a loud voice continue to demand access to it — via easier and easier avenues.
One fact is clear: the compulsive and extreme pursuit by those interested in the legalization of marijuana proves that the substance is addicting. Proponents have persevered with a singular focus and have overcome many obstacles and consequences to increase and ease access to their next high. This, almost in itself, would be a strong indication of the addictive component and effects of marijuana.
Think of it this way: What if one of your favorites were taken away? Twinkies, ice cream or ESPN? Would you go to incredible lengths of time, money, energy, effort and consequences to fight for a snack or a TV network? Only if you are addicted to it, because that is the definition of addiction.
Need further evidence of the consequences of marijuana legalization? These fall into four categories: physical, psychological, spiritual and societal.
Truth For Women Mentor TrainingSeptember 27 | Bethlehem, PA
This event will train ladies who mentor other women who are struggling. They will be trained in counseling and in teaching decision-making skills using the SPEARS decision-making model.
Moments of Change 2014 Addictions Conference
September 29-October 2 | Palm Beach, FL
Dr. Karl Benzio, MD will present on “Addiction: Sin, Disease, or Psychological Defect?” as well as his SPEARS decision-making model, which is key to real biological-psychological-spiritual treatment by integrating science and faith. He encourages people to practically apply the Bible in daily living to truly renew the mind.
Focus on the Family Physicians Resource Council
October 1-5 | Colorado Springs, CO
This is a meeting of Christian physicians who help guide and define Focus’ position on various medical and psychiatric/psychological issues which affect individuals, families, society and public policy.
All Access ARC Conference
November 4-6 |Saddleback Church, Orange County, CA
Dr. Benzio will equip church leaders with his insights in decision-making and using science to glean transformational truths out of the Bible for practical growth and maximum fulfillment.
National Association of Christian Social Workers National Conference
November 6-9 | Annapolis, MD
Lighthouse Network’s Dr. Karl Benzio will lead a workshop on how to be a shining light through godly decision-making skills as he teaches his unique bio-psycho-spiritual model which actually rewires your brain circuits, thus renewing your mind as Romans 12:1-2 clearly states.
Lighthouse Network RadioFeature:
“Life Change with Dr. Karl”
Lighthouse Network is sharing its newest, life-changing radio features with thepurpose of bringing scientific expertise and Biblical principles together to examine some common daily struggles to help people successfully navigate life’s obstacles and enjoy fulfilled lives. Lighthouse Network’s “Life Change with Dr. Karl” radio feature airs Monday through Friday on more than 425 radio stations nationwide.
Which question would you like answered or what issue would you like addressed in the Life Change radio program? We’ve had a great response from our 425 radio stations airing “Life Change with Dr. Karl” and we want to make sure we are providing information that is practical and useful to you! Is there a list of tips or other issue you would like to see featured in Lighthouse Network’s eNews? Please let us know by emailing us at info@lighhousenetwork.org.
Click here to listen to “Life Change with Dr. Karl” archives or read transcripts.
Resources from Lighthouse Network
UnderstandingBipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder can be confusing and discouraging. This DVD shares details of the disorder, keys to treatment and a biblical perspective on living life successfully with bipolar disorder.
Respondingto God’s Grace
As Christians, we can use a specific decision-making process that helps us deal with the daily challenges of life with grace.
ConflictResolution
Conflict is a daily occurrence in life, and once it arises, feelings can be hurt and relationships can be damaged. Learn how to resolve conflict in a healthy way in this DVD.
Free Stepping Stones Devotional
Click here to receive The Stepping Stones Daily Devotional, which will encourage and challenge you while helping you grow in your daily walk with God.
If you or someone you love needs help, call our FREE 24/7 Lighthouse Network addiction and counseling helpline, 1-844-LIFE-CHANGE (1-844-543-3242).
Lighthouse Network is a Christian-based, non-profit organization that offers an addiction and mental health counseling helpline providing treatment options and resources to equip people and organizations with the skills necessary to shine God’s glory to the world, stand strong on a solid foundation in the storms of their own lives, and provide guidance and safety to others experiencing stormy times, thus impacting their lives, their families and the world.Lighthouse Network offers help through two main service choices:
Lighthouse Life Change Helpline (1-844-LIFE-CHANGE, 1-844-543-3242), a 24-hour free, national crisis call center, where specialists (Care Guides) help callers understand and access customized treatment options.
Life Growth and self-help training resources for daily life, including online and DVD series and training events to help individuals achieve their potential.
A recent tragic story told of an 18-year-old student who died from a cardiac arrhythmia and seizure as a direct result of powdered caffeine use. In fact, the makers of the 5-Hour Energy drink are being sued by the states of Oregon, Washington and Vermont, and the FDA is starting to look into the caffeine industry.
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