The Amount of Sugar in an Amp Energy Drink

The Amount of Sugar in an Amp Energy Drink
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Amp energy drinks, manufactured by the Pepsi Corporation, include a product line of seven different energy drink formulations, along with an energy juice and an energy gum. Though two of the drink varieties are sugar-free, most of the Amp energy drinks contain a large amount of sugar. Use caution when consuming energy drinks, as they may carry serious health risks if taken in large amounts.

Amp Energy Drinks

Amp energy drinks are marketed by the Pepsi corporation under the Mountain Dew brand. The drinks have become very popular, especially among the younger generations. Amp currently comes in seven different varieties. The original Amp contains B-vitamins along with taurine, ginseng and guarana. There is also a sugar-free version of the original formula. There is also cherry-flavored Amp Overdrive, which adds yerbe mate for extra energy, and mixed berry-flavored Amp Elevate which includes L-theanine for increased focus. Amp Traction comes in a grape flavor and has maltodextrin and D-ribose for increased stamina. Amp also comes in its lemonade-infused Lightening formula which blends B-vitamins, L-carnitine and guarana in both regular and sugar-free versions. There is even an Amp energy juice which adds Amp ingredients to 100 percent orange juice.

Sugar Consumption

The United States Department of Agriculture notes that added sugars, such as those contained in energy drinks, contain empty calories and no nutritional value. Furthermore, a scientific statement issued by the American Heart Association in a 2009 edition of "Circulation" warns that excessive sugar consumption can lead to hypertension, high blood cholesterol levels, cardiac disease and obesity. Therefore, limit consumption or avoid these drinks altogether.

Amp Energy Drink Sugar Content

Amp energy drinks are most commonly sold in 16 oz. cans. With the exception of the two sugar-free varieties, each can contains 58 g of sugar. The American Heart Association recommends that most Americans limit their sugar intake to between 100 and 150 calories, which is equal to between 25 and 38 g. The sugar content in one Amp energy drink far exceeds this recommended daily allowance.

Possible Side Effects

Energy drinks have been linked to a number of negative side effects including high blood pressure, heart palpitations and even heart attack. The risks are magnified for children, adolescents and those with heart or mood disorders. Enjoy these beverages sparingly and seek medical attention immediately if you experience concerning side effects.

References

Article reviewed by Libby Swope Wiersema Last updated on: Jun 29, 2011

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