Energy drinks pack a punch, giving you a much-needed increase in alertness and stamina if used responsibly. However, energy drinks aren't an adequate substitute for sleep, and some of the ingredients in them may be detrimental to your health. Not all energy drinks have the same ingredients, so check product labels closely before drinking.
Caffeine
Caffeine is the primary ingredient in many energy drinks, and it's also found in soda, coffee and many other beverages. However, energy drinks typically contain more caffeine than soda, tea and even coffee. While caffeine promotes alertness, focus and energy, it also has drawbacks. Common side effects from caffeine include nervousness, anxiety, dizziness and nausea. Dizziness can cause a loss of coordination, which can lead you to fall and injure yourself during exercise. Energy drinks tend to be much higher in caffeine than other caffeinated beverages; a 12 oz. can of soda provides about 35 mg of caffeine, while just 8.4 oz. of an energy drink may contain up to 280 mg.
Yohimbine
Yohimbine is an herbal extract -- derived from the yohimbe tree -- found in many energy drinks and supplements. This substance is purported to increase energy levels and boost your metabolism, but as with caffeine, it can be harmful. Yohimbine ingestion can cause adverse effects including insomnia, increased blood pressure, nausea and dizziness. Insomnia can cause sleep-deprivation, creating a susceptibility for falling asleep during daily activities; doing so during driving or operating machinery can be dangerous. Additionally, high blood pressure can cause stroke, kidney failure and heart failure.
Sugar
Energy drinks are typically high in sugar, as this simple carbohydrate can provide a quick source of energy. In addition to promoting a crash after the initial burst of energy, excess sugar promotes tooth decay. Additionally, research from Massachusetts General Hospital indicates that consumption of large doses of sugar can reduce testosterone production.
Phosphoric Acid
Many energy drinks and sodas contain phosphoric acid, which is added because it imparts a tangy flavor to the beverage. Unfortunately, phosphoric acid can also erode the enamel on the surface of your teeth.
Guarana
Guarana is an extract from South American trees that contains caffeine and several other chemical compounds purported to enhance energy levels. Guarana can cause nausea, shakiness, anxiety, diarrhea and vomiting. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration, a condition that can potentially cause you to fall into a coma or state of shock, seizures, low blood pressure, brain damage and even death, if untreated.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Caffeine Content for Coffee, Tea, Soda and More; October 2009
- Drugs.com: Caffeine Side Effects
- Mount Auburn Hospital; Yohimbe; December 2009
- PhysOrg.com; Testosterone Decreases after Ingestion of Sugar; The Endocrine Society; June 2009
- "Journal of the American Dental Association"; Diet and Tooth Decay; April 2002
- Drugs.com: Guarana Side Effects
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