Energy drinks side effects

Side Effects of Energy Drinks

Most of us like to drink energy drinks. Red Bull, Full Throtle, Tab, Rockstar, Monster and other energy drinks are tasty and can increase our energy levels to some extent but at the same time they can pose serious health risks. Effects and dangers of such beverages are something you should be aware of especially if you indulge in them often. Each ingredient of energy drinks entails certain side effects. Let’s find about these adverse effects of energy drinks.

Caffeine

Caffeine is the most common stimulant found in energy drinks. Energy drinks usually contain between 70 and 200 mg of caffeine. Caffeine is addictive ingredient that stimulates the brain and the nervous system. It increases the heart rate as well. Caffeine is also a diuretic that encourages loss of fluid and results in frequent urination. People who are sensitive to caffeine may experience different symptoms. They include: dizziness, nausea, irritability, tension, restlessness and jitters. Some people may suffer from allergic reaction to caffeine, which is followed by rash, hives, itching, diarrhea, vomiting, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing, sleep disturbances and swelling of the mouth, tongue, lips and face. Excessive caffeine can cause shrinking of the breasts in women and increase the risk of miscarriage in pregnancy. Caffeine withdrawal symptoms include headaches, apathy and constipation.

Taurine

Taurine is one of the main ingredients of energy drinks. Taurine is an amino acid that enhances the effect of coffee. It appears that taurine does not have significant side effects. However, people who take anticoagulants should not consume beverages containing taurine since it acts as a blood thinner.

B VitaminsEnergy drinks contain some vitamins of B-group. Excess intake of vitamin B3, or thiamine and vitamin B6 can have adverse effects. More than 35mg of thiamine can result in flushing of the skin, while quantities above 3000mg can induce liver toxicity. Vitamin B6 in amount exceeding 100mg can lead to sensory nerve problems.

Inositol

This ingredient of energy drinks is not associated to any side effects, although excess inositol can result in diarrhea.

Ginseng

Ginseng rarely causes side effects. However, some people may experience nausea, diarrhea, headaches, increase or decrease in blood pressure, nose bleed, insomnia and pain in the breasts.

Glucuronolactone

Glucuronolactone is another ingredient of energy drinks, which is not associated with adverse effects on human health.

Ginko BilobaGinko biloba increases circulation of blood and may interact with anticoagulant medicines. It also interferes with antidepressants and may cause side effects such as diarrhea, palpitations, headaches, dizziness, restlessness, nausea and vomiting.

L-CarnitineL-carnitine can cause vomiting, nausea, headache, diarrhea, sleep disturbances, stuffy nose and restlessness.