Energy drinks are served in at least 143 countries worldwide, despite consistent medical research that should make consumers wary. Four countries, including Norway, Denmark, Uruguay and Iceland have all taken heed and banned these beverages from market shelves. The research continues, and the results may make you reconsider your consumption of an ice-cold energy drink.
Lethal Ingredients
Many energy drinks contain two key ingredients, caffeine and taurine. Combined, these ingredients have been proven to be both helpful and harmful to consumers. The popularity of these energy drinks stems from claims that the combination of ingredients improves mental clarity and thus enhances physical performance. Despite these potential positive effects, the mixture has proven deadly for many people and increased the risk of cardiovascular disease or stroke for others.
Blood Clots
One study, conducted by researchers at the Royal Adelaide Hospital in Australia discovered that 250 mL of a sugar-free energy drink was enough to raise the blood pressure in 30 university students aged 20 to 24 years. The beverage also increased the "stickiness" of their blood, which is a contributing factor to blood clots. Scott Willoughby, M.D., the lead researcher on the study noted that he conducted researcher after several young people died after consuming energy drinks. Willoughby asserts that older persons with pre-existing heart conditions should avoid energy drinks.
Other Risks
A smaller study conducted at the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, tested 15 healthy volunteers with a mean age of 26. Researchers observed increases in heart rate and blood pressure after consuming two cans of an energy drink daily for seven days. Each day the percent increase over of their normal heart rate became greater, further indicating the health risks associated with these beverages. A 2008 report by "The Sunday Times" in Australia, discussed that a number of untimely deaths have been associated with energy drinks including the death of a 33-year old man in 2001 and an 18-year-old British basketball player in 2007. Both had consumed a high quantity of an energy drink before their deaths.
Warnings
Despite the negative reports associated with energy beverages, their popularity remains strong. Although some energy drink manufacturers have an advisory on the can, advising consumers not to exceed more than two cans of energy drink per day, there is still much legislation lacking in regard to these beverages. Doctors and researchers warn that individuals who have any type of cardiovascular disease or condition should avoid consuming these beverages as consumption could be fatal.
