If your child comes to you asking for an energy drink, it’s crucial to respond with a firm “no.” Research indicates that even one 16-ounce energy drink can pose serious health risks, including potential heart damage, even for otherwise healthy young adults.
Currently, studies reveal that consuming 32 ounces of any energy drink can lead to harmful changes in blood pressure and heart function—effects that are significantly worse than those observed with caffeine alone. If you’re sipping on a popular energy drink right now, you might want to reconsider your choice.
Published in The Journal of the American Heart Association, a study examined the physical effects of energy drinks on 18 healthy participants. They were given either an energy drink or a comparable beverage containing similar caffeine levels but lacking the other additives found in energy drinks. While the energy drink delivered a hefty 320 mg of caffeine (equivalent to about four cups of coffee), it also included a blend of sugar, various B vitamins, and other ingredients commonly listed on energy drink labels.
After consuming the energy drink, researchers noted irregular heart rhythms and a nearly five-point increase in blood pressure, while those who drank the caffeine-only beverage showed no significant changes. Alarmingly, between 2010 and 2013, over 5,000 cases of energy drink-related health issues were reported to U.S. poison control centers, with nearly half involving children who were unaware of what they were consuming.
Energy drink manufacturers often target younger audiences by promoting benefits like improved focus and performance through endorsements from extreme sports athletes. While I was doing research for this article, I checked with my 12-year-old to find out if energy drinks were available at her school—turns out, they are not. However, these drinks can be purchased without restriction at convenience stores.
The Mayo Clinic has noted that even a single 16-ounce energy drink can elevate blood pressure and stress hormones, putting otherwise healthy young adults at risk for heart issues. For healthier alternatives, consider options like those found at this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. You can also explore options for male fertility at this authority on the topic.
In conclusion, it’s vital to educate our children about the dangers of energy drinks and to guide them toward healthier choices that won’t jeopardize their well-being.