Energy drinks are carbonated beverages that typically contain caffeine, sugar, vitamins, amino acids and herbal stimulants such as Ginkgo biloba or ginseng. They originated in Thailand, were introduced in Europe in the late 1980s, and eventually the U.S. in the 1990s. Most are sold in a can and carry names and labels that evoke images of strength or power.
While sugar is a primary ingredient in most energy drinks, some are now made without sugar and thereby offer few or no calories and do not cause the "crash" that sugary drinks can cause. Sugar-free energy drinks are sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
Some brands include vitamins such as B vitamins, and most have large amounts of taurine (approximately 1,000 mg per serving), an amino acid that is depleted when exercising. Taurine is thought to relieve muscle fatigue, but has not been shown to increase energy.
What to Look for
Sugar-free energy drinks derive their stimulant effect mainly from caffeine. Check the caffeine content on the label. Most range between 50 and 100 mg, similar to that of a cup of coffee. Energy drinks are not the same as sports drinks, which are designed to help hydrate the body during exercise by replacing carbohydrates and electrolytes lost through perspiration.
There are numerous warnings about consuming energy drinks before or during strenuous exercise, as well as if you have heart problems. The FDA has not evaluated the claims on many labels of energy drinks.
Common Pitfalls
Keep in mind that caffeine is a stimulant. According to the Mayo Clinic Web site, one problem with energy drinks is that they are often consumed much more quickly than a cup of coffee, and sometimes they are consumed before exercise. This can lead to a rapid heart rate, irritability and anxiety, which is sometimes severe enough to require hospitalization.
Caffeine is also dehydrating. The Mayo Clinic suggests that it is healthier to drink a non-caffeinated beverage, especially before or during exercise, to prevent dehydration.
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