From the Guidelines
I strongly advise against the regular consumption of energy drinks, especially among adolescents and young adults, due to the potential risks to cardiovascular and neurological health. Energy drinks are beverages that contain stimulants such as caffeine and are marketed to provide mental and physical stimulation 1. They may also contain sugar or other sweeteners, herbal extracts, taurine, and B vitamins. The primary ergogenic nutrients in most energy drinks appear to be carbohydrate and/or caffeine, according to the International Society of Sports Nutrition 1.
Some of the key concerns with energy drink consumption include:
- Caffeine toxicity, particularly when combined with other ingredients like guarana 1
- Adverse effects on the cardiovascular and neurological systems, including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and anxiety 1
- Potential for dependency and other negative side effects, such as insomnia and digestive issues
Given these risks, it is recommended that energy drink consumption be limited to no more than one standard can (8-12oz) daily, and avoided altogether in certain individuals, such as children and adolescents, as well as those with pre-existing heart conditions, high blood pressure, or anxiety disorders. Instead, safer energy alternatives can be considered, including:
- Regular sleep habits
- Proper hydration
- Balanced nutrition
- Moderate coffee consumption
- B vitamin supplements 1
From the Research
Energy Drink Consumption
- Energy drinks are beverages that typically contain high quantities of caffeine, simple carbohydrates, and other ingredients to increase alertness and performance 2.
- The consumption of energy drinks has significantly increased among adolescents in the past 10 years, with potential adverse reactions ranging from mild sleep disturbances to death 2.
- Energy drinks pose potential risks to the health of children and adolescents, including obesity, and may contribute to substance use or abuse 3.
Adverse Health Effects
- Frequently reported adverse events in the pediatric population include insomnia, stress, and depressive mood 4.
- In the adult population, common adverse events include insomnia, jitteriness/restlessness/shaking hands, and gastrointestinal upset 4.
- Energy drink consumption has been linked to serious adverse effects, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults with pre-existing medical conditions 5.
Recommendations and Regulations
- Individuals are advised to avoid frequent energy drink consumption and co-consumption with alcohol 4.
- Regulatory standards should be increased for the sale of energy drinks, particularly for the pediatric population 4.
- Pediatricians should be aware of the possible effects of energy drinks in vulnerable populations and screen for consumption to educate families 5.
Caffeine Intake and Health Benefits
- Moderate intake of caffeine may have health benefits, including protective effects on cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative diseases 6.
- However, long-term or excessive caffeine consumption can lead to addiction, insomnia, migraine, and other side effects 6.
- Children, adolescents, pregnant women, and people sensitive to caffeine should restrict or reduce their intake to avoid potential adverse effects 6.