Beyond mood: the side effects of energy drinks on your heart
Energy drink consumption may seem harmless, but it requires attention when it comes to cardiovascular health. After all, what are the side effects of energy drinks?
The search for more energy and energy is common - especially on days when tiredness is at its highest. That's when many people turn to energy drinks. But is this habit safe for the heart? The answer may be more complex than it seems.
Energy drinks are made up of caffeine, taurine, sugar and other stimulants. In a 250 ml can, it is common to find up to 90 mg of caffeine - the equivalent of almost three cups of coffee. And there are options that exceed this amount, reaching values close to 300 mg. According to Brazilian Society of Cardiology (SBC), although moderate consumption of caffeine can be safe, too much is a risk factor for high blood pressure, arrhythmias and even heart attacks.
When energy becomes overload
The impact on the cardiovascular system begins as soon as energy drinks are consumed. Caffeine stimulates the release of hormones such as adrenaline, which raises the heart rate and blood pressure. In the long term, this constant stimulus can contribute to the development of diseases such as cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis.
According to Cardiology Society of the State of São Paulo (Socesp), even young and healthy people can experience side effects from consuming energy drinks, such as tachycardia, dizziness, shortness of breath and fainting, especially when the drink is combined with alcohol. The mixture can create a masked effect of drunkenness and lead to excessive alcohol consumption and a greater risk of dehydration, cardiac overload and accidents.
In addition to the heart, there are other effects of overeating
The symptoms go beyond the cardiovascular system, as insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremors, gastrointestinal discomfort and even caffeine intoxication can arise from excessive and prolonged consumption of these drinks.
According to Mayo Clinicpeople with genetic heart disease are even more vulnerable, as excess stimulants can be a trigger for potentially serious arrhythmias.
Moderation is the best way
Despite being available on every shelf, energy drinks should not be seen as harmless. Pregnant women, children, the elderly, hypertensive patients, diabetics and people with a history of heart problems should avoid consuming them or seek medical advice before taking them.
If you often feel low on energy, it's important to investigate the cause. A good diet, quality sleep and regular physical activity are safe and healthy ways to regain your energy - and take care of your heart.
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The effects of energy drinks on the heart
Understand the relationship between energy drinks and heart problems