While water alone remains the most trusted and recommended choice of drink to stay hydrated, some people prefer energy drinks to quench their thirst. These beverages date back to 1962, when Lipovitan D was launched in Japan. Since then, they have become extremely popular since advertisers appeal to anyone who requires an energy boost to tackle the day.

Most people think sports and energy drinks are the same thing. Even though these terms are used interchangeably, they are different. Sports drinks often contain essential nutrients like carbohydrates and vitamins to enhance performance. On the other hand, energy drinks are packed with stimulants, such as caffeine, that can increase the risk of dependence when consumed in high amounts. Read on to find out more about the dangers of consuming energy drinks.

Did you know that energy drinks are considered natural dietary supplements? As a result, energy drink manufacturers aren’t compelled to list specific ingredients since they aren’t subjected to the same regulations that are applicable to food products. This means that as a consumer, you won’t know how much caffeine and sugar your energy drink contains.

Research suggests that sugar is one of the main ingredients in energy drinks. The amount of sugar and stimulants like caffeine and guarana can increase the risk of long-term health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 Diabetes, and gout. If you have a specific health condition, consuming energy drinks can impact your health.

The Hidden Effects of Energy Drinks

Having a beverage that has the potential to increase your energy when you need it most sounds like a great idea. It can give you an edge when you hit the gym or play competitive sports. Studies have shown that some positive effects of energy drinks include enhanced alertness, reduced fatigue and improved physical performance when consumed in moderation.

However, the disadvantages of these beverages outweigh the short-lived pros. For instance, damaging health effects can include increased blood pressure, risk of obesity, stomach irritations, poor heart health and stress-related complications. These are reportedly the typical risks of long-term consumption of energy drinks:

Increased Risk of High Blood Pressure

Chronic consumption of energy drinks can put your blood pressure levels at risk. Researchers found that these beverages contain additives and high caffeine doses that are linked to increased adrenaline levels, which directly affect your heart rate. This can lead to heart palpitations and high blood pressure, which are likely to cause hypertension.

Poor Heart Health

Did you know that energy drinks can disrupt your heart’s electrical system? When your heart rate is inconsistent, it leads to abnormal patterns and rhythms, or irregular heart rhythms called arrhythmias. Possible complications can include blood clots and fatal heart failure.

Affects Kidney Function

The accumulation of ingredients like taurine can increase your risk of kidney failure. Related health concerns of consuming energy drinks, like diabetes and high blood pressure, can lead to one or both kidneys failing to function properly. If you suspect you may have kidney failure, you should consult with your doctor for accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

Caffeine Overdose

While it’s rare to experience a life-threatening caffeine overdose, you should know that it’s possible if you excessively consume energy drinks. Caffeine is a stimulant that functions to increase some processes in your body temporarily. Energy drinks put you at risk of increasing your heart rate and coronary heart disease.

Dehydration

Beverages with high doses of caffeine can be linked to various health conditions. Specific ingredients found in energy drinks are diuretics, which increase urine output when consumed in large quantities. It’s crucial to moderate your consumption of energy drinks and to balance your water intake to avoid the risks of dehydration.

In summary, most people rely on energy drinks for an uptick in energy and improved productivity. As the year winds down, you might be feeling fatigued and need something to help you make it through the day and complete your tasks. Affinity Health provides health coverage with access to a vast network of doctors if you experience any health-related concerns. Contact us to find out more about our medical cover plans.