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The health effects of energy drinks
Table of Contents
1. The composition and function of energy drinks
Their action is based on a complex combination of active ingredients that affect different metabolic and neurological processes in the body (I.M. Caffeine is the main active ingredient in energy drinks). Adenosine, the neurotransmitter responsible for inducing fatigue and drowsiness, is inhibited by caffeine, which leads to increased neuronal activity, stimulation, and increased alertness. Barcelona et al. 2020). It is an organic chemical compound, which also contains an amino acid with the action of bloof acid, which plays an important role in many metabolic processes and regulating neurological functions. It is responsible for causing the body's function of sugar, T.D. Guarana, which may be a part of the body of sugar beet, but can also contribute to long-term energy expenditure, but in 2021 it can also increase the amount of calcium and calcium, which can contribute to the growth of energy in the brain and body.2. The health effects of energy drinks
The active ingredients in these types of products, such as caffeine and taurine, combined with artificial dyes and high amounts of sugar, have a very negative effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Costantino et al. 2023). And indeed, studies clearly indicate that their excessive consumption can lead to serious problems. They cause narrowing of blood vessels, increased blood pressure, and an accelerated heart rate, which as a result can increase the risk of developing arrhythmia, hypertension, and even heart attack.3. The nervous system
However, a single overdose can lead to excessive arousal, nervousness, insomnia, and shaking hands. Excessive consumption of energy drinks, according to researchers, often leads to sleep disturbances, increased nervous tension, and problems with concentration (C.P. Marczinski 2017). Caffeine, known for its stimulating properties, increases alertness, improves concentration, and reduces fatigue in small amounts.4. The digestive system
Additionally, high caffeine intake of energy drinks can lead to irregular emptying and general discomfort from the digestive system, which in the long run may lead to even more serious diseases such as stomach ulcers. Excessive consumption can cause diarrhoea, bloating and other digestion problems. Moreover, regular consumption of energy beverages can lead into irregular emplacements and general dysfunction of the gastrointestinal system (I.M. Even more worrying is the effect of energy drink on the intestinal acid, which is caused by the microorganisms that inhabit the intestines, or by the microbes that eat the intestine.5. Effects on other aspects of health
Energy drinks can also adversely affect the condition of teeth due to high sugar and low pH, which increase the risk of gum and cavity erosion (I.M. Overconsumption of energy drinks may have a negative impact on health that extends beyond the digestive, nervous and circulatory systems.6. Who energy drinks are right for
Energy drinks are a popular choice for athletes, and are often consumed before training or competitions to improve physical and mental performance. However, caution is advised in energy intake because of potential side effects (A.R. Napota also notes that energy drinks aren't recommended for children, pregnant women, breastfeeding women, caffeine-sensitive people, and people with heart, kidney, liver, or metabolic disorders). A study by the International Society for Sports Nutrition (ISSN) has shown that exercise can actually improve energy expenditure and concentration before exercise.7. What dose of energy is safe?
Energy drinks contain about 3045 mg of this ingredient in 100 ml, so in theory even a liter of this product should not pose a greater risk. For children and adolescents, it is recommended to limit caffeine intake to much lower doses, usually no more than 100 mg per day. It should also be emphasized that in Poland from 1 January 2024.
