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SALT LAKE CITY — Energy drinks are often the drink of choice for young adults and teenagers. We see more and more of these types of beverages because many companies are cashing in on the profits of our desires.
While no one actually "needs" these types of drinks they can be helpful in some situations. Many of the problems that arise from energy drink consumption have to do with the frequency with which a person drinks them.
So, let’s explore the facts
What is an energy drink?
An energy drink is any beverage containing stimulant drugs, chiefly caffeine, which is marketed as providing mental and physical stimulation. Sugar is also a main ingredient in these types of drinks.
Some common energy drinks are: Coke, Pepsi and other caffeinated colas, as well as coffee, espresso and some teas.
Examples of high-risk energy drinks include: 5-Hour Energy, AMP Energy, Crunk Energy Drink, Full Throttle, Glaceau Vitamin Energy, Jolt, Lift Plus, Monster, Red Bull, Rockstar, SoBe and Vault — to name a few. There are over 57 names or types of energy drinks, with more developed daily.
Beverages with the highest amounts of caffeine are:
- Espresso (20-60 mg/fl oz)
- Spike Shooter (35.71 mg/fl oz)
- Street King (35.71 mg/fl oz)
- 5-Hour Energy (104 mg/fl oz)
Effects on the body
These drinks have no nutritional value; in fact, they can cause malnutrition if they are a part of your daily intake. For people with certain medical conditions, energy drinks should be avoided at all costs because they have the potential to interfere with medication effectiveness.
Research has also shown energy drinks have an immediate negative impact on the body. The findings of a 2013 study conducted by the Radiological Society of North America showed "healthy adults who consumed energy drinks high in caffeine and taurine had significantly increased heart contraction rates one hour later."
Other side-effects of energy drink consumption include:
- Heart palpitations
- High blood pressure
- Tremor/shaking
- Agitation/restlessness
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Chest pain
- Dizziness/syncope
- Paraethesia, tingling or numbing of the skin
- Insomnia
- Respiratory distress headache
- Mental confusion
- Kidney problems
Withdrawal symptoms from energy drink consumption can last for several days or weeks. They include:
- Caffeine headache
- Sleepiness with no relief
- Anxiousness and irritable
- Lethargy
- Constipation
- Depression
- Muscle pain/stiffness
- Mental confusion
- Flu-like symptoms
Contributing: Jordan Ormond
Suzanne Carlile, "Nurse Suzy," has been a nurse since 1982. Her main focus is critical care and nursing education. She holds a master's degree in nursing, is a Certified Emergency Nurse, and a member of NNSDO Intermountain West Chapter.
