Risks of Conventional Energy Drink Use
Energy drinks are often marketed as harmless performance aids, but a growing body of literature has raised concerns about the effects of excessive or chronic consumption—particularly when products rely on high stimulant doses without adequate physiological support.
A comprehensive review examining the impact of energy drinks on the human body evaluated evidence from numerous clinical and observational studies.
Key concerns highlighted in the review include:
- Cardiovascular effects: Associations with arrhythmias, elevated heart rate, and blood pressure changes, especially with high caffeine intake.
- Neurological and behavioral effects: Reports of anxiety, agitation, sleep disruption, and altered neurocognitive states.
- Organ stress: Evidence of acute inflammation affecting organs such as the liver, stomach, pancreas, and kidneys in extreme or chronic use cases.
- Rare adverse reactions: Case reports describing uncommon dermatological or immune-related responses.
The authors emphasize that many of these risks are linked to high stimulant loads, sugar content, and repeated use without attention to hydration, recovery, or individual tolerance.
The Dark Side of Energy Drinks: A Comprehensive Review of Their Impact on the Human Body (PMC)
