A number of energy drinks are available on the market and contain caffeine, guarana and herbal supplements such as ginkgo and ginseng. Depending on the brand and specific variety, for example sugar-free or five-hour energy, these drinks contain a varying mixture of compounds. The ingredients in energy drinks have a powerful effect on the body, and you should be an informed consumer before drinking them.
Side Effects
Energy drinks have a number of unfavorable side effects related to the high caffeine content. Too much caffeine can cause feelings of anxiousness or nervousness, increased heart rate, dehydration, headaches and a sense of agitation or irritability, according to the Mayo Clinic. Another common side effect is trouble sleeping. In addition, pregnant women and children are more sensitive to caffeine and therefore may have more intense side effects, according to a review of the health effects of stimulant drinks published in the May 2003 issue of the "Nutrition Bulletin."
Seizures
Some evidence suggests that the consumption of a large amount of energy drinks may lead to seizures in individuals without previous seizure experience. In a case report published in the March 2007 issue of "Epilepsy & Behavior," four individuals under the age of 30 experienced seizures after consuming 24 oz. or more of energy drinks. On abstinence from consuming energy drinks, the seizures subsided and did not reoccur.
Sports
Energy drinks are marketed to suggest they may be beneficial in active pursuits such as endurance-based exercise. However, the use of caffeine in sports is a debated issue. The International Olympic Committee considers 12 mg/L of caffeine in the urine to be a positive drug test, as reported in the November 2001 issue of "Sports Medicine." In addition, the caffeine in energy drinks has a dehydrating effect, which is not suitable during or after exercise.
Warning
Since energy drinks contain a variety of herbal combinations in varying amounts, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services warns that these additives can interact with existing medical conditions or medications you may be taking. Therefore, always check with your doctor before consuming energy drinks.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Energy Drinks Can Have a Variety of Adverse Effects on the Body; May 29, 2009
- "Epilepsy & Behavior"; New-Onset Seizures in Adults: Possible Association with Consumption of Popular Energy Drinks; Stanley Jones P. Iyaduria et al.; March 8, 2007
- "Sport Medicine"; Caffeine and Exercise: Metabolism, Endurance and Performance; Graham; November 1, 2001
- "Nutrition Bulletin"; The Health Effects of Stimulant Drinks"; Derek Finnegan; 2003
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