The Buzz About Energy Drinks

Today we live in a very fast-paced world. It takes a lot of energy to squeeze in work, household chores and daily activities with our friends and family. Many of us rely on the boost that we receive from the new craze: ENERGY DRINKS! But what do they actually do for us? Recent studies show that they are more harmful to us than we realize. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 31 percent of Americans aged 12-17 and 34 percent of 18-24 year olds consume energy drinks.

The Harmful Side Effects:

Caffeine Addiction: Energy drinks can cause caffeine addiction in a young population that doesn't require the caffeine boost. Caffeine is a stimulant drug that gives a temporary energy boost and increased mental awareness. Caffeine will stay in the body for several hours and that energy and mental awareness that you receive after drinking your energy drink will crash as soon as your caffeine levels start to drop.

Nervousness: Many people feel restless and irritable after drinking an energy drink. Some people even become jittery or nervous. Your hand may tremble or shake and your heart may race if you consume too many energy drinks.

Hypertension: Your blood pressure may rise soon after you drink an energy drink. You may also experience a rapid heartbeat or a racing pulse. Those who have been diagnosed with hypertension should avoid energy drinks.

Weight Gain: Energy drinks typically contain high amounts of sugar and are very high in calories which will cause you to pack on the pounds.

Insomnia: You should avoid drinking energy drinks in the evening. You may have trouble sleeping after consuming energy drinks late in the day. Insomnia and a poor night's sleep may be the cause of your lack of energy and may tempt your to drink more energy drinks.

Serious Medical Conditions: Consuming energy drinks may also cause dehydration, manic episodes, chest pains, seizures, heart attacks and even sudden cardiac death, Do not consume energy drinks if you have heart conditions or are currently taking prescription medication.