Do Energy Drinks Really Tone Us Up?

Author: Alexander Bruni Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

A new study challenges the qualities of drinks. According to experts, caffeine is the only useful ingredient in them.

Energy drinks are presented as a means of toning and improving mental activity. But, according to a new study, the only beneficial ingredient in them is probably caffeine.

Scientists have found a lack of strong evidence to support claims that ingredients such as taurine, guarana, ginseng, stimulate productivity. To this end, the research team examines the results of dozens of articles that study the effects of the components, alone or in combination with caffeine.

With the exception of some weak evidence for the effects of glucose and guarana extract, there is little evidence to support claims that components of energy drinks other than caffeine contribute to increased physical or cognitive functions, the results show.

On the other hand, a study conducted this year found that energy drinks contain up to 14 times more caffeine than other soft drinks. Such levels are defined by experts as toxic. The stimulant has been linked to seizures, diabetes, heart problems and behavioral disorders.

A number of studies have linked the consumption of energy drinks to an increase in heart rate and increased blood pressure, as well as to sleep disorders and anxiety. Therefore, the products are not recommended in the presence of cardiovascular and kidney problems, liver disease, as well as in behavioral disorders in childhood.

Doctors also warn that children who consume energy drinks are at risk of gaining weight because they are not active enough to burn extra calories. One ken can contain up to 270 calories.

Due to the harmful effects of drinks on children and teenagers, legislative measures have been taken in Bulgaria, restricting their sale to persons under 18 years of age in kindergartens, schools, dormitories and medical institutions, as well as during sports events and public events for students. .

Children should drink more water to quench their thirst, as well as consume the recommended daily amount of fruit juices and low-fat milk, experts say.

The study was published in the journal Nutrition Reviews .

Do Energy Drinks Really Tone Us Up?

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