The number of energy drinks that promise to increase energy and improve performance has increased dramatically over recent years. It’s a $50 Billion industry and shows no signs of slowing down. Many individuals use these drinks to extend their exercise sessions or stay up late studying for exams. However, dozens of consumers of these products have ended up in emergency rooms with dehydration, rapid heartbeat and breathing problems. Some have died as a result of mixing these drinks with drugs or alcohol. A look at what is in some of the most popular energy drinks can help you decide whether these can be a help or a hindrance to your performance.
Caffeine is a popular pick-me-up in America. An estimated 80 percent of adults rely on caffeine to get them through the day. Energy drinks were developed as an alternative to coffee or caffeinated soft drinks. These drinks are marketed as energy boosters, and, in fact, they generally contain large amounts of caffeine to provide this effect. However, they may contain other ingredients that combine with the caffeine to produce unexpected effects. Some consumers may be particularly sensitive to these ingredients and may find themselves in physical trouble before they realize it. A closer look at the ingredients in these beverages can help to keep these individuals out of the emergency room.
Many energy drinks contain both sucrose and glucose, two forms of sugar that pack a hard caloric punch. Even the versions with artificial sweeteners may combine several different types. If you are among the many people who have side effects from artificial sweeteners, beware of these drinks. Children should not drink energy drinks because of the high concentration of sugar and caffeine in these beverages. Diabetics should also avoid these drinks because of the sugar content. Even the versions with artificial sweeteners still contain high amounts of caffeine. Individuals with mood problems or insomnia should also avoid these drinks.
An 8.4 fluid ounce can of a popular energy drink contains 80 milligrams of caffeine. By comparison, a cup of brewed coffee contains 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine. The problem starts when can after can of energy drink is consumed, leading to “caffeine toxicity,” which can cause rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, stomach upset, dizziness and even seizures. It is the excess caffeine consumption that often brings consumers of energy drinks to the emergency room. Also, other ingredients in energy drinks can heighten the effects of caffeine such as Guarana. Known as South American chocolate, Guarana. is known to be high in caffeine, can cause caffeine toxicity and is found in many energy drinks.
Some energy drinks contain the ingredient Taurine, an amino acid that is found naturally in the human body. Excess amounts of Taurine are thought to be excreted by the kidneys. However, the long-term effects of excess taurine are not known.
Ginseng is believed to boost athletic performance, and many athletes take it as a supplement. However, drinking several energy drinks in a row could cause ingestion of excessive amounts of ginseng, which can cause high blood pressure, headaches and insomnia.
Quercetin is derived from plants and acts as natural vasodilator in the human body. It is believed to open up blood vessels to aid in athletic stamina. However, some people may be sensitive to its effects and have headaches, tingling of limbs and kidney damage. Thus, the reason why individuals who are sensitive to herbal supplements should avoid using energy drinks, which often contain a number of herbal components.
When used properly energy drinks are a great supplement. However, as with most products we consume, it should be used in moderation. Begin with small sample sizes and see if your body has a negative reaction. Whether you have doubts or not you should consult your physician and see if energy drinks are right for you
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