Student-athletes concerned over the presence of trace amounts of NCAA-banned substances in some flavors of Vitaminwater can breathe easier now.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association released a statement last month, emphasizing that normal consumption of the flavored drink is safe.
"Normal daily consumption of any of the 13 Vitaminwater varieties will not place a student-athlete at risk for testing positive," the organization said in the Feb. 11 statement. The NCAA said "inaccurate" media coverage had created a misunderstanding.
Three Vitaminwater flavors contain small amounts of "impermissible" substances so schools cannot provide the drinks to students, but students are allowed to buy them on their own accord, according to the statement.
The Department of Athletics sent an e-mail to student-athletes last month, making them aware of the presence of stimulants in the Vitaminwater flavors.
Among the psychoactive compounds found in the Vitaminwater flavors in question are taurine - also found in Red Bull - and glucosamine, which is sometimes used to rebuild cartilage or heal joints.
But according to the NCAA statement, "An average-sized healthy man would have to drink ten 20 oz. bottles of Vitaminwater Energy or Rescue within several hours of competition" to be at risk of a positive urine test. The NCAA could not be reached for additional comment.
"There was never a 'ban' of these products in the first place," said Sarah Fraser, assistant athletic director for compliance.
Max Lubin '12, a member of the men's water polo team, said Brown athletes have generally been "indifferent" about the situation.
Still, John Zoppo '12, a member of the football team, said student athletes are aware of the rules and are held responsible for what they consume. "Athletes are randomly tested a few times a year," he said.
Just to be safe, Zoppo said, he bought a pack of another energy drink, but added that no one he knows has significantly changed his or her habits since the warning.
