Energy Drinks: For many teenagers and even young children, energy drinks such as Red Bull are the first choice to get energy spike. However, most of these so-called energy drinks can do more harm than good due to excessive sugars, stimulants and chemicals that can severely disrupt vital body functions.
Many health experts and authorities have flagged risks such as sleep disorders, heart palpitations and metabolic chaos from habitual use. A typical 25ml of energy drinks is packed with taurine, ginseng, 25-30g sugar, 80-160mg caffeine and synthetic additives that far exceed natural thresholds.
Dangerous Ingredient Mix
Many energy drinks include glucuronolactone, B-vitamins in excess, sodium benzoate, carbonated water, sucrose, glucose, citric acid, niacinamide, artificial flavours/colours and sodium bicarbonate. These ingredients can overload your body: taurine can alter heart rhythms, caffeine can constrict blood vessels and excessive B-vitamins strain kidneys in high doses. High sugar content in these energy drinks can significantly spike insulin and promote fat storage, causing accumulation of stubborn abdominal and visceral fat.
Cardiovascular Chaos
Caffeine can severely constrict arteries to spike blood pressure by 7-15mmHg and heart rate, heightening arrhythmia, tachycardia and sudden cardiac arrest risks. Combined with taurine, caffeine can provoke irregular rhythms, resulting in emergency hospital visits.
Obesity, Diabetes and Dental Decay
Packed sugars (up to 10 teaspoons/can) can trigger insulin spikes, fat accumulation and type 2 diabetes progression. Acidic pH (around 3.5) dissolves enamel 10x faster than soda, which can cause rapid tooth erosion and sensitivity.
Healthy Swaps for Real Energy
Ideally, you should choose healthy alternatives such as coconut water or lemon water. For instance, lemon water offers zesty hydration with vitamin C to stabilize blood sugar for steady vitality. You can even choose sharbats or beverages made from rose, khus or kokum syrup. This would help you stay refreshed, replenish electrolyte levels and satisfy your sweetness urges. You can even try out herbal teas such as green tea or tulsi tea. Coconut water that is rich in potassium and minerals can also be an excellent choice.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.
