Energy drinks have transitioned from being a niche product to one of the fastest growing beverage choices in the world. In 2017, the global energy drink market generated $55 billion, and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.7% from 2018-2023. However, as the number of beverages sold increases daily, so do health concerns.
Energy drinks are different from sports drinks in that they add stimulants like caffeine and herbal supplements such as guarana and bitter orange. Unfortunately, as athletes and non-athletes find themselves revved up and energized from that drink, they come to rely on them more and more for the energy high. As one’s tolerance for caffeine ratchets up to higher levels, drinks are consumed more often, or are replaced by drinks that provide even higher levels of caffeine.
Caffeine is a strong and potentially dangerous stimulant, particularly for children and adolescents. It is produced in the leaves and seeds of plants. It can also be made artificially and added to foods or drinks. Caffeine is classified as a drug because it stimulates the central nervous system, causing a temporary energy boost, mood elevation, and increased alertness. It can be helpful for people who need a “pop” of energy to keep them on their toes, at least for a couple of hours. It works by blocking adenosine, a chemical in the body that tells you to shut down when you are tired.
Caffeine is found naturally in coffee, tea, and chocolate. It is added to soft drinks and energy drinks. Caffeine is considered safe in moderate amounts. For an adult, 200-300 milligrams is considered average. Teens should consume no more than 100 milligrams per day and kids should get even less. What happens if you are consuming too much?
According to the Mayo Clinic, energy drinks can put you at risk for the following:
- restlessness, irritability, and/or anxiety
- increased blood pressure
- dehydration
- weight gain
- insomnia
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- panic attacks
- increased PMS symptoms
Excessive consumption of energy drinks may also cause the following:
- manic episodes
- seizures
- chest pain
- heart attack
- sudden cardiac death
- bone loss
Why the concern?
Over the last decade, the number of ER visits related to energy drink consumption doubled. In 2017 alone, 20,000+ trips to the ER were attributed to energy drink consumption. Ingesting large amounts of caffeine can cause problems such as heart rhythm disturbances, increased heart rate and blood pressure, heart palpitations, anxiety, sleep problems, digestive problems, and dehydration.
Bottom Line:
Consumers need to educate themselves and their families on the dangers associated with energy drinks. Adults perceive them as healthy beverage options for themselves and their children, but children have not had the luxury of time to build up a tolerance for caffeine.
Written by: Donna Green, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Erie County, green.308@osu.edu
Reviewed by: Beth Stefura, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Mahoning County, stefura.2@osu.edu
Sources:
https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/energy-drinks-market
https://www.todaysdietitian.com/newarchives/0418p30.shtml
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