Risks of Energy Drinks

Most popular with people aged 18-39, energy drink consumption has significantly increased over the last decade. Energy drinks are marketed as being able to boost energy levels, improve mental performance and aid in weight loss. These beverages can also be dangerous and can cause health problems if consumed at excessive levels.

The main ingredient found in energy drinks is caffeine. Other additives you can find in energy drinks are taurine, vitamins, herbal supplements, sugars and guarana (plant product that contains concentrated caffeine).  Popular brands of energy drinks contain high amounts of these ingredients.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) fails to regulate the safety of these ingredients since some energy drinks are marketed as dietary supplements instead of beverages. The lack of regulation by the FDA makes manufacturers responsible for the safety of the ingredients found in the energy drinks. Unfortunately, the majority does not have the scientific evidence to prove their safety or effectiveness.

Here are come of the potential risks of consuming energy drinks:

• Caffeine overdose. Because energy drinks contain high amounts of caffeine, drinking these beverages excessively can lead to experiencing symptoms such as high blood pressure, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, and even death.

• Diabetes. Consuming large amounts of caffeine reduces insulin sensitivity and increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.

• Pregnancy complications. Low birth weight, late miscarriages and stillbirths.

• Child health issues. Children and adolescents can experience neurological and cardiovascular effects.

• Addictive behaviors. The use and dependence on other substances that can be harmful to health.

The act of mixing energy drinks with alcohol has become commonplace and can be extremely risky and dangerous.  Mixing high amounts of caffeine (such as the levels found in energy drinks) and alcohol decreases drowsiness without eliminating the effects of alcohol. What results is a “wide awake drunkenness” that increases the chance of dangerous and risky behavior such as violence.

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