Energy drinks

Energy drinks

Image result for energy drink caffeine
 
Energy drinks have become a common entity within today’s society.  There are multiple brands and flavors on the market which can easily be found in most grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, and within the community.  Despite the millions of dollars spent on clever marketing techniques, energy drinks are neither nutritious nor safe.  Natural circadian rhythm (sleep-wake cycle) dictates that humans are awake and active when the sun is up and sleep when it is dark.  However, most Tactical Athletes work nontraditional and unconventional hours.  As a result, most Tactical Athletes do not get the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep within a 24 hour time period.  With a lack of sleep, athletes are fatigued.  Many Tactical Athletes turn to using energy drinks to fight the effects of fatigue. 
 
Image result for red bull car
Often marketed as dietary supplements, energy drinks are not regulated by the FDA.  As such, the true ingredients within energy drinks may not be listed within the nutritional information.  Many energy drinks have been found to contain caffeine, sugar, and other substances.  US dietary recommendations indicate that it is safe for healthy adults to consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day (the equivalence of 4 cups of coffee).  Each energy drink contains different amounts of caffeine, with some containing significantly higher amounts of this drug, far exceeding the daily recommended value. 
 

Image result for energy drinks


Negative effects of consuming energy drinks
·         Irritability
·         Increased blood pressure
·         Increased heart rate
·         Insomnia
·         Nervousness
·         Weight gain
 
Studies by both the American Heart Association and The Mayo Clinic found that just one 16-ounce energy drink caused the negative effects of increased blood pressure and significantly increased stress hormone response.  As a result, just one energy drink has the potential to cause increased risk of cardiovascular events in healthy adults.
 
Image result for energy drink negative effects
Mixing energy drinks with alcohol has also been found to be dangerous in healthy adults.  Energy drinks are stimulants, conversely alcohol is a depressant.  Therefore, drinking both together may lead to drinking more alcohol because the energy drinks dull the feeling of intoxication. 


Before reaching for that quick burst of energy found within energy drinks, I challenge you to think about the negative effects within that bottle or can.  Instead, I challenge you to find other sources of energy. 


Energy drink alternatives
·         Staying hydrated with water
·        Balanced diet with the daily recommended amounts of protein, fruits, and vegetables
·         Meditation
·         Yoga or Pilates
·         Gentle stretching
·         Aerobic exercise
·         Trying to get 7-8 hours of sleep within a 24 hour time period
 
 
By: J. Scott, DPT, ATC, TSAC-F
 
Sources: The Mayo Clinic

Comments