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Negative Effects of Energy Drinks

Some people use energy drinks to gain an energy boost throughout the day. In moderation, and when a person is in good health, energy drinks provide a low health risk. However, because they utilize high amounts of caffeine and sugar, excessive use of energy drinks can cause a negative impact on an individual's health. Individual's with certain medical conditions face increased health risks when using energy drinks.

  1. High Sugar Content

    • Sugar is one of the main ingredients in energy drinks that provides the energy the product promises. The amount of sugar in energy drinks offers no nutritional value and contributes to the high caloric nature of the drinks. If an individual doesn't exercise regularly, the extra calories will eventually contribute to weight gain. Additionally, if an individual isn't practicing good dental habits, the amount of sugar in energy drinks will add to tooth decay.

    High Caffeine Content

    • Another primary ingredient in energy drinks that provides the feeling of an energy boost is caffeine. Caffeine blocks adenosine, the chemical produced by the brain and related to sleep. Energy drinks normally contain about 80 grams of caffeine, which is the equivalent of one cup of coffee. When used in moderation, about 320 grams per day, caffeine is harmless to the body. However, too much caffeine may cause anxiety, irritability and headaches. Additionally, caffeine is a diuretic and will increase a person's need to urinate. Excessive urination may eventually lead to dehydration.

    Ephedrine

    • Ephedrine is a stimulant employed in some energy drinks that is a common ingredient in diet pills. It functions in a similar manner to adrenaline and can raise an individual's heart beat and blood pressure. People in good health may use ephedrine with a low risk of severe effects, such as strokes, seizures and heart attacks, provided that they don't abuse it. Ephedrine may produce worse adverse effects in individual's with current medical conditions, such as heart disease and a history of strokes. Due to its effects on blood sugar, ephedrine can also have a negative impact on diabetes.

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