Cuba health experts warn of risks from Shaka energy-vodka

Medical experts in Cuba are warning against the consumption of Shaka, a popular energy-vodka drink among young people. Dr. Julio César Hernández Perera, a specialist in internal medicine and member of the Cuban Academy of Sciences, cautioned that the combination of alcohol and stimulants like caffeine and taurine creates significant health risks.

According to Dr. Hernández, the drink can mask alcohol intoxication, leading to a false sense of alertness that may result in medical emergencies. He noted that nearly 45% of regular consumers may experience acute cardiovascular issues, such as hypertension and arrhythmias, while approximately 33% face neuropsychological problems including anxiety, panic, and hallucinations.

Personal accounts from young consumers highlight the immediate physical impact of the beverage. One individual reported experiencing violent tachycardia and severe dizziness after consuming multiple cans, describing the sensation as a heart beating uncontrollably. Other witnesses have reported seeing peers experience symptoms where they appeared disconnected from their surroundings while suffering from intense palpitations.