Too much energy drink intake linked to severe health problems
Experts warn that too much intake of energy drink could lead to severe health problems. The symptoms could be liver damage, hepatitis, heart problems and high blood pressure.
A case study of a 50-year old man, who experienced nausea, abdominal pain and vomiting, was questioned by the physicians about his food, drink, recreational drug and supplement habits. The man said that he didn't drink or smoke or use drugs. On the other hand, he had been drinking five energy drinks every day. Another case study of someone who had liver damage because of drinking too much energy drinks, according to CBS News.
The man was diagnosed with acute hepatitis, according to the doctors from the University of Florida College of Medicine in Florida. They said that the causes of hepatitis are the high levels of vitamin B3 or niacin in the energy drink. A bottle of energy drink contains 40 milligrams of niacin, which double the recommended daily value. In this case, the man was said to have 160 to 200 milligrams of niacin a day for at least three weeks. This poses a high risk for harmful accumulation and toxicity.
The experts said as the energy drink market continues to rapidly expand, the consumers should be cautioned of the potential risks of the ingredients of the energy drinks. The nutrients and vitamins like the niacin greatly exceed the recommended daily intake. This leads to harm and toxicity, according to Valley News Live.
Meanwhile, the American Academy of Pediatrics advised the parents that energy drinks are not recommended for children. This may link to heart and neurological problems in children. Health experts also stated that energy drinks and high doses of caffeine would likely develop heart problems and high blood pressure.
An energy drink is a kind beverage that contains stimulant drugs such as caffeine. There are various energy drinks with different brands. They may contain sweeteners, sugar, amino acids and herbal extracts. Some may or may not be carbonated. It is advertised as giving physical and mental stimulation.