Newfoundland and Labrador's federation of school councils is calling on the province to prohibit stores from selling highly caffeinated energy drinks to anyone under 16.

"If you consume more than 500 millilitres a day, you're putting yourself at a higher risk for heart irregularities and vomiting," said the council's vice-president, John Smith. "These drinks don't hydrate you; they dehydrate you."

Smith says store owners should have to ask children for proof of age before selling them energy drinks, such as Red Bull.

Smith said he's concerned that energy drinks could affect children's ability to learn.

He says the federation is talking to the province's health department and the association that represents Newfoundland and Labrador's doctors about the issue.