It’s a staple for many college students. Pulling an all-nighter to get that paper in – surrounded by cans and junk food wrappers. We’ve all seen it on the television even if we haven’t indulged ourselves. These carbonated beverages often keep college kids able to function between classes, socializing, and at work. But, at what cost?

The high sugar content in many energy drinks can lead to weight gain, dental issues, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, excessive consumption of these beverages can result in caffeine addiction, which may manifest as headaches, irritability, and fatigue when caffeine levels drop.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are non-alcoholic beverages marketed to improve energy, stamina, athletic performance, and concentration. Categorized as “functional beverages” alongside sports drinks and nutraceuticals, the stimulant beverage industry has grown dramatically in the past 20 years. In 2015 alone, the United States saw over $9.7 billion in sales, and that number grows each year. The target consumer market for energy drinks is adolescents and young adults. One study found that 51% of college students report consuming at least one energy drink each month. This is problematic, as there is lots of recent evidence to suggest these drinks can cause a myriad of problems. Manufacturers of energy drinks claim that these beverages are beneficial in that they can boost energy, and can improve physical and cognitive performance. However, there is insufficient scientific evidence to support these claims. On the other hand, there is emerging evidence that they are associated with a number of health issues. (1, 2, 3, 4)

Another concern with energy drink consumption is its potential impact on mental health. Some studies have suggested that excessive intake of energy drinks is linked to an increase in stress, anxiety, and depression, particularly in young people. These effects may be exacerbated by the combination of high caffeine content and other stimulants found in energy drinks.

Energy Drinks and Heart Attacks

There is growing evidence to suggest that drinking too many energy drinks can contribute to heart problems, and could even cause heart attacks. This is worse with people who have underlying structural heart disease, inherited heart-related problems, and abuse of other substances in addition to energy drinks. It doesn’t just occur with these people though. It may be assumed the elevated risk is due to high levels of caffeine. However, these drinks also often contain things like guarana, taurine, theophylline, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, vitamins, and L-carnitine. These can increase the risk of heart attacks, especially when ingested with alcohol. (5)

Furthermore, energy drinks can lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and the potential for irregular heart rhythms. These conditions may be particularly harmful for individuals with pre-existing hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions, as well as for those who are not accustomed to consuming high levels of caffeine.

Energy Drinks and Strokes

A stroke is a sudden interruption in the blood supply of the brain. Energy drinks can have a negative impact on your overall cardiovascular health. This isn’t just limited to heart attacks. Unfortunately, these beverages can also cause you to have a stroke, due to the risk of adverse cardiovascular events. (5, 6, 7)

In addition to the previously mentioned cardiovascular risks, energy drinks may contribute to endothelial dysfunction, which is a known risk factor for stroke. Endothelial dysfunction involves the impairment of blood vessels’ ability to dilate and constrict properly, which can lead to the formation of blood clots and decreased blood flow to the brain.

Energy Drinks and Blood Clots

Research undertaken at the University of Adelaide looked at the effects of the sugar-free varieties of energy drinks on blood clotting potential and blood vessel function. The study monitored 50 healthy volunteers in their early 20s one hour after drinking a single can of an energy drink. It showed that there was both an increase in blood clotting potential and blood vessel function was reduced, both of which increase the risk of a heart attack. (8)

Another potential risk factor for blood clot formation associated with energy drinks is dehydration. High caffeine content in energy drinks acts as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration and an imbalance of electrolytes. This may cause the blood to become thicker and more prone to clotting, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Energy Drinks and Sleep Quality

Getting a good night’s sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Unfortunately, energy drinks negatively impact your quality of sleep. This may be partly due to the overall goal of the drink in the first place – to stave off sleep so you can get more done. However, after the effects of the drink are supposed to have worn off, people may still find it difficult to fall asleep even if they are trying to. Several studies have demonstrated that consumption of energy drinks was significantly associated with changes in sleep quality and patterns of students. (9, 10, 11)

Moreover, sleep deprivation caused by energy drinks can lead to a vicious cycle, as individuals may rely on these beverages to compensate for the lack of energy and alertness resulting from poor sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation can have detrimental effects on cognitive function, memory, mood, and overall health, making it essential to prioritize quality sleep over artificial energy boosts.

While energy drinks may provide a temporary boost to get you through the day, they may not be a healthy long-term solution. There are many other ways of increasing your energy levels that don’t include energy drinks. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Healthy Holistic Living for some ideas.

In addition to the potential health risks associated with energy drink consumption, it’s essential to consider healthier alternatives for boosting energy and maintaining focus. Some options include regular exercise, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. These lifestyle changes can offer sustainable energy and well-being without the negative consequences associated with energy drinks.