Energy drinks are commercial beverages that are promoted as “energy-boosting.” The energy-boosting ability of the drink is attributed to the various vitamins and stimulants present in it.

What are Found in Energy Drinks?

Common contents of most energy drinks include caffeine and other forms of methylxanthines, taurine, vitamin B complex, carbonated water and herbs. Guarana, gingko biloba and ginseng can also be found in a number of energy drinks. Carbonated water is also a common ingredient.

Ginseng is a root that is said to help reduce stress and boost energy levels in the body. Gingko biloba is an herbal plant that has been suggested to enhance a person’s memory. Taurine is an amino acid that helps regulate heartbeat and contractions of the muscles. Guarana is a plant known to be a stimulant and contains high amounts of caffeine.

What Energy Drinks Do for the Body

Energy drinks are supposed to increase the body’s energy and are recommended for times when a person does not have enough energy to carry out additional activities. If a person needs more energy to maintain physical and mental performance, consuming an energy drink may come to mind. The caffeine present in energy drinks is the stimulant that provides that body with an “energy-boost.”

Health Risks of Energy Drinks

Energy drinks contain a relatively large amount of caffeine that may result in negative effects if consumed regularly. A majority of energy drinks contain approximately 80 mg of caffeine, equivalent to that of a regular cup of coffee, which is eight ounces. This is definitely a large amount, when compared to a regular sized soda (12 ounces) which has a maximum of 48 mg of caffeine. Aside from caffeine, which is a stimulant itself, some energy drinks also contain additional herbal stimulants and high amounts of sugar.

Caffeine is a known diuretic, aside from being a stimulant. It is also an addictive compound. Too much consumption of caffeine may lead to heart palpitations and the loss of fluids in the body and insomnia. Aside from the possible risks of having too much caffeine, the herb stimulants that are present in energy drinks might also increase possible negative health effects.

It is not recommended for young people to have energy drinks constantly, especially if they are going to mix it with alcohol. Although this mixture of beverage can make them feel alert or energetic, this can actually lead to severe dehydration, which can lead to major health risks.