An Overview of the Risks of Contemporary Energy Drink Consumption and Their Active Ingredients on Cardiovascular Events

AbstractPurpose of ReviewFrom the introduction of the popular energy drink “Red Bull” in 1997 to the United States, energy drink consumption has rapidly grown and evolved. In the last decade, in particular, these beverages have been considered a potential health hazard. This is due to their large concentrations of caffeine in addition to other components such as taurin e, B vitamins, guarana,l-carnitine, and ginseng that have individual risk as well as potential synergistic risk with other ingredients.Recent FindingsThis review focuses on the evolving market of energy, typical “active” components of the most used drinks, and their potential effects on health, particularly cardiovascular risk. The most often consumed products are analyzed for their caffeine content and by their key active ingredients. These ingredients are then considered based upon their potential for cardiac risk alone and in combination with others.SummaryWhen used within the recommended dosage, all these components of energy drinks have no to very rare reported adverse health impacts. However, intoxication can occur upon prolonged and excessive consumption of energy drinks and in with consumption of other products. Furthermore, potential vulnerable populations (ex., youth, pregnant women, and those with cardiovascular conditions) should limit consumption of energy drinks, pending further research.
Source: Current Cardiovascular Risk Reports - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research