Today, let's delve into a rather controversial topic you've probably considered before: Are energy drinks killing us?
You've probably heard people say energy drinks are dangerous - but how harmful are they? Is there a recommended quantity you can take? Here's an article that explains it all.
Of course, this topic is controversial because of the number of people who struggle with energy drink addiction today. If you walk into a hall, for instance, you can be sure to see more than three people carrying different brands of energy drinks.
This craving may not prove that we lack concern for our health, but we often cannot help it. Well, enough of the stories. Let's delve right into the negative effects of overdrinking energy drinks.
ALSO READ: Hidden ingredients in energy drinks that are harming your kidneys
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
The high caffeine content of energy drinks can cause a temporary spike in heart rate and blood pressure, leading to heart palpitations, anxiety, or even more serious heart issues for some individuals.
Caffeine is a diuretic. And we all know how diuretics can lead to increased urination. Unless you're replacing the fluid going out of your body as urine, you may soon experience possible dehydration, especially if you consume energy drinks in large amounts or during physical activity.
We're no strangers to this one. In fact, many people overdose on energy drinks when they want to stay up late at night. What we often don't know is that the stimulating effects of caffeine and other ingredients in energy drinks can interfere with sleep patterns, causing insomnia or poor sleep quality.
ALSO READ: 5 unexpected side effects of mixing alcohol with energy drinks
Regular consumption can lead to caffeine dependence, where individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or irritability if they stop using energy drinks suddenly.
High caffeine intake has been linked to anxiety, mood swings, and, in extreme cases, panic attacks or depressive symptoms.
Drinking too many energy drinks in a short period can lead to caffeine toxicity, resulting in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, tremors, and even more severe health issues such as seizures.
Some people may combine energy drinks with alcohol, which can mask the depressant effects of alcohol and increase the likelihood of risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence or engaging in unsafe activities.
ALSO READ: Can energy drinks really damage your kidneys?
We're not exactly saying you shouldn't consume energy drinks at all. But you should learn moderation. A bottle of energy drink once in a while won't hurt you. But you'll leave yourself prone to most of these risks if you become addicted to energy drink consumption.