Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned drinker, you need to know what to look for when purchasing an energy drink. From caffeine and sugar to the addictive nature of these drinks, there are certain things you should know.
Caffeine
Various energy drinks have caffeine as their main ingredient. This chemical is a natural substance found in many plants. However, there is some concern that too much caffeine can be bad for you. It can cause nervousness, insomnia, and headaches. It is also a diuretic. It is therefore best to drink them in moderation.
Caffeine is a stimulant that can be addictive. Some people who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine should not consume it. It can also increase your blood pressure. Some studies have linked it to heart problems. It can also increase your blood sugar level. It is best to talk to your health care provider before using energy drinks.
Sugar
Typical energy drinks contain caffeine, taurine, and other substances known to enhance mental alertness. However, these drinks can have dangerous side effects. They also have high sugar content, which has been linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
One 12-ounce can of the average energy drink contains 21 to 24 grams of sugar. In fact, some energy drinks contain as much as 25 grams.
The American Medical Association and the American College of Sports Medicine both recommend that people avoid energy drinks. They are known to cause narrow blood vessels, resulting in gout and inflammation. They can also increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Stimulants
Typically, energy drinks contain stimulants such as caffeine, taurine and guarana. Some energy drinks also contain herbs, such as ginseng, L-carnitine and yerba mate. These ingredients play roles in several biological processes, but there is not enough scientific research to determine the safety of these substances.
These drinks are advertised as a “kick” to boost mental alertness and performance. However, they can have serious negative health effects. They may cause adverse events that can lead to death. Some studies have found an increase in risk of cancer. They may also affect heart function and lead to liver failure.
The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) recently issued a position statement on energy drinks. It advises that people with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other medical conditions should not use them. Rather, they should focus on diet and exercise.
Herbs
Whether you’re trying to get a jump start on a day at the office or are preparing for a night on the town, you’ve probably heard of energy drinks. These are beverages designed to provide a quick boost of energy without the side effects. These may contain caffeine, sugar, vitamins and electrolytes. Compared to regular sodas, they are much healthier.
However, energy drinks are not for everyone. If you have health issues, are taking medication, or are simply trying to cut back on the sugar, an energy drink may not be the best choice. The ingredients listed on the label are often unstandardized. This can lead to adverse reactions. A better option is to look for a drink formulated by a herbalist.
Addictiveness
Considering the addictive qualities of energy drinks, the National Institute on Drug Abuse conducted a study. The research revealed a correlation between energy drink consumption and substance misuse in young people. The researchers also found that weekly energy drink users had a greater chance of displaying risk behavior. This included cigarette smoking, illicit drug use, non-medical prescription drug use, unprotected sex, and hazardous alcohol use.
In addition, weekly energy drink users had a higher mean AUDIT score. This was associated with a higher rate of monetary delay discounting, a measure of risk behavior. The researchers found that this was most prominent in teens.
Addiction is not necessarily an immediate process. In some cases, it may be a gradual process that requires a professional help. When it becomes worrisome, you should consider counseling before it becomes a full-fledged problem.
Side effects
Despite the benefits energy drinks may have on energy and alertness, there are also side effects of energy drinks. Some side effects can be quite severe. The effects vary from person to person. However, most of them are reversible with discontinuation of caffeine.
Excessive consumption of caffeine is associated with heart and nervous system disorders. The symptoms of excessive caffeine include jitteriness, anxiety, and restlessness. Some long-term side effects of energy drinks include changes in sleep patterns, mood disorders, and diabetes.
Energy drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and stimulants. They may contain herbs or substances that increase mental alertness, physical performance, or both.
