The World Health Organization defines health as more than just the absence of disease. Specifically, WHO's definition of health is "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being." Therefore, in order to deem a particular food or beverage to be healthy, it must enhance the body in some way. Monster Energy Drinks contain some healthy ingredients, but overall, these beverages can have a negative impact on health.
Natural Ingredients
Monster Energy Drinks contain 2000 mg of taurine, 400 mg of ginseng and an unspecified amount of guarana. Taurine is an amino acid that is believed to increase athletic performance. Guarana and ginseng are natural sources of energy. Natural ingredients are generally safer and have fewer side effects on the body. Unfortunately, Monster Energy Drinks contain a limited amount of guarana, ginseng and taurine, especially in comparison to its glucose content. A 16-oz can of Monster contains 200 calories, 180 g caffeine and 54 g of sugar. Glucose is an added sugar that increases energy, but otherwise provides no nutritional value. Too much glucose can have deleterious effects on the heart.
Vitamins
Maintaining good health involves consuming a certain amount of nutrients per day. The percent daily value (DV) on the nutrition facts label is a guide to the nutrients in one serving of food. It is set by the FDA and based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Monster Energy Drinks contain more than 100 percent of the daily value for vitamins B-2, B-3, B-6 and B-12. Vitamins B-2 and B-3 aid in the production of energy. Vitamins B-6 and B-12 are responsible for the normal functioning of the nervous system. Although Monster Energy Drinks are a good source for these B vitamins, you can obtain them through supplements, which do not have the associated caffeine, sugar and calories.
Health Concerns
In addition to the allure of its sweet taste, the jolt of energy triggered by these drinks make them desirable among young, active people. However, clinical studies have revealed a number of health problems associated with the consumption of energy drinks by adolescents. According to a literature review of such studies conducted in 2010, which was published in "The Journal of School Nursing", adolescents have reported experiencing nervousness, dizziness, difficulty concentrating and insomnia as a result of energy drinks. Health care providers have reported more serious health concerns from energy drink use among adolescents including dehydration, anxiety, seizures and strokes.
Side Effects
Adolescents and young adults are the target population for Monster Energy Drinks. According to a study of college students, published in the "Nutrition Journal" in October 2007, the two most frequently reported reasons for consuming energy drinks were to compensate for insufficient sleep and to increase energy. The two most common side effects from consuming energy drinks were headaches and heart palpitations. Of nearly 500 respondents, 22 percent reported headaches and 19 percent reportedly had heart palpitations.
References
- World Health Organization: WHO Definition of Health
- "Nutrition Journal"; A Study of Energy Drink Consumption Patterns Among College Students; B.M. Malinauskas, et al.; October 2007
- "The Journal of School Nursing"; Energy Drinks: A New Health Hazard for Adolescents; N. Pennington, et al.; October 2010
- "Time"; Study: Too Much Sugar Increases Heart Risks; A. Park, April 2010
- MonsterEnergy.com: Monster Energy Ingredients
- American Cancer Society: Vitamin B Complex
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