Energy drinks have become increasingly popular over the past few decades. For many people they are a go-to drink at all times of the day. However, popularity does not always mean it is the best for the body.
Energy drinks are any beverage that contains high amounts of a stimulant ingredient. These stimulants include caffeine, sugar, carnitine, or vitamins. These drinks can be easily confused with sports drinks, which contain a supply of electrolytes that the body needs after physical activity. Energy drinks promote mental enhancement such as improving alertness.
There are many different well-known brands for energy drinks such as Monster, Red Bull Celsius and Rockstar. While the manufacturers suggest that these drinks are the best for an increase in energy, they do not mention how energy drinks can be harmful to the body.
The brand’s caffeine content in energy drinks can range from 50 milligrams to 505 milligrams. Manufacturers have found a way to avoid caffeine limitations that were previously upheld because many contain natural ingredients that they claim should be classified as dietary supplements rather than drugs. The caffeine limit set by the FDA in any drink in the early 2000s was 71 milligrams. Some of the natural ingredients usually included are supplements such as carnitine, taurine and vitamins B6 and B12.
Manufacturers have been avoiding labeling these drinks properly as they do not contain the warnings about consumption of large quantities of caffeine as it would for other over-the-counter caffeine stimulants such as pills or tablets. According to the FDA, OTC caffeine stimulants that contain 100 milligrams of caffeine must include approved warnings while energy drinks that may contain up to 505 milligrams of caffeine do not have to include these warnings.
Caffeine can be a harmful substance if there are not regulated amounts being ingested. Caffeine is classified as a stimulant, which is a type of drug that excites brain activity and the nervous system. Since it is classified as a drug, it can be harmful to the body if not used wisely. Caffeine is not something that people need to completely avoid, but it is a substance that people should be aware of, especially in high dosages.
If too much caffeine enters the body or addiction occurs, it can cause caffeine toxicity or dependence. Caffeine toxicity symptoms may include nervousness, anxiety, insomnia or gastrointestinal upset. Some of these side effects mimic that of anxiety and other mood disorders.
Energy drinks, while popular, are not the best for the body. While it is reasonable to have them once in a while, people of all ages should avoid depending on this drink for hydration. Be aware of what is being consumed because the ingredients may not always be explicitly stated.
If you or someone you know is dealing with addiction, SAMHAs national helpline is free, confidential and 24 hours a day, informational and referral service: 1-800-622-HELP (4357).
