Energy drinks have become a highly common beverage for people of all ages. However, many energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine and sugar for that boost of energy. Although caffeine and sugar in small doses are not dangerous, they can pose substantial health risks if consumed in large quantities.
Heart Risks
In a law suit filed in California against the makers of Monster energy drinks, the parents of a 14 year old child suggest that high caffeine levels in the drink lead to the death of their daughter. According to medical records, she drank two drinks before being taken to the emergency room where she later died of a heart arrhythmia condition, attributed to over consumption of caffeine.
According to the Food and Drug Administration, energy drinks are not regulated because they are sold as dietary supplements. Unlike sodas and soft drinks, energy drinks often contain between 160 and 500 milligrams of caffeine per serving. Soft drinks, in contrast, only contain a maximum of 71 milligrams per 12 ounce serving according to FDA regulations. Such large levels of caffeine can contribute to increased heart rate and respiration, chest pain, vomiting and heart attack.
Past Health Risks from Diet Fads
In 2004, the FDA banned the use of ephedra. Until that time, ephedra was a common health supplement that was used in many weight loss supplements. Derived from the herb ma huang, it has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat asthma, nasal congestion and bronchitis. However, it was associated with numerous health risks, including elevated blood pressure, irregular heart beat, headache and gastrointestinal distress. Additionally, individuals with cardiovascular and psychiatric problems are at greater risk of death from related issues.
Although the FDA is not yet banning the levels of caffeine found in popular energy drinks, they are examining their use and the potential health risks they pose. Certainly, when compared to the health risks of consuming high sugar soda, the health risk from energy drinks is debatable to many people. However, neither drink is the best option if you are looking for something to give you a boost of energy.
Do you drink energy drinks regularly? What do you think about the potential health risks they may pose?
– The Alternative Daily
