Your Health on Energy Drinks
Need to stay up late to finish a project proposal? Going to the gym for a heavy HIIT workout? Getting ready for a stressful presentation? In times like these, all we need is the energy to keep our mind and body going. This is probably why energy drinks have become so popular worldwide. Unfortunately, these chemical-infused beverages are not a ‘magic bullet’ solution to our energy needs and a growing body of research suggests that they could pose great danger to our health.
What’s in your energy drink?
Energy drinks have indeed become a part of many people’s lifestyle. In the UK alone, 209 new energy drinks have been launched in the past five years. Before, busy professionals reach out for a large cup of morning latte to jump-start their day. But now, more and more people are choosing a much stronger caffeinated beverage – energy drink. It is estimated that the energy drink industry in UK has reached £1.1 billion annually, and growing. No wonder why in every store you enter, you will see a long line of energy drinks that come in different sizes and flavours.
But have you ever wondered what makes these beverages ‘energy drinks’? According to a report published in the journal Paediatrics earlier this year, energy drinks contain ingredients that can have a harmful effect to the adolescent health. Most popular drinks contain very high, unregulated levels of caffeine and other stimulants which give the beverage an extra ‘kick’. Many studies have shown that excessive caffeine intake does have detrimental health effects, such as dehydration, anxiety, insomnia, digestive problem, and obesity.
Most energy drinks also contain high amounts of sugar. Yes, the deadly sugar, which ranges from 21 g to 34 g per 8 ounces. Sugar in these beverages comes in varying forms, such as sucrose, glucose, or high fructose corn syrup. According to the researchers who published the report, people who consume 2 or 3 energy drinks per day could be taking 120 mg to 180 mg of sugar, which is 4 to 6 times the daily recommended intake. This makes them at a higher risk of obesity and dental problems.
Fructose is known to elevate uric acid, which results to the reduction of nitric oxide and the increase in the angiotensin. These effects raise blood pressure and potentially damage the kidneys. Elevated sugar levels also lead to insulin resistance, which is not just the underlying reason behind type 2 diabetes and heart disease, but also in many forms of cancer.
Energy drinks also contain taurine, a common amino acid in the body that supports brain development. However, the amount of taurine present in such beverages is higher than that in the normal diet. Although there’s no research yet that says its hazardous to health, there’s no research either that says too much taurine is beneficial to the body.
Manufacturers also boast of the ‘vitamins and minerals’ found in their products. But experts agree that such nutrients can be obtained even if a person does not observe a balanced diet, as most foods nowadays are fortified with common vitamins and minerals. Another thing, they also do not state how much of these nutrients are present in their products.
Apart from all these, many energy drinks contain other chemicals that can potentially damage one’s health.
Natural Energy Boosters
If you’re looking for something that can fuel your mind and body and give you the energy you need, you may want to try the following. These foods don’t contain harsh chemicals that energy drinks do but they can effectively keep your body revitalised!
Green tea
Try swapping your afternoon coffee with green tea. It also contains caffeine which can keep you feeling alert and revitalised. But aside from pumping up your energy levels, green tea can also help you burn more calories.
Green Juice
Combine all your favourite greens in a juicer or blender and create a green smoothie that will surely give you long-lasting energy boost. Try adding kale, lettuce, spinach and broccoli. Add apple or honey to add flavour and sweetness in your juice.
Almonds
This tasty, crunchy and healthful snack helps you energise by preventing spikes in your blood sugar and insulin levels, so you will experience fewer highs and lows whilst working. Other foods that can also keep your energy levels steady are avocado, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts.
Dark chocolate
Need a quick tasty energy booster? Munch on dark chocolate. It has the ability to improve blood flow to the brain, thus, enhancing cognitive performance. The flavonoids in dark chocolates also help keep blood vessels healthy and reduce inflammation.
Berries
Can’t focus? Snack on berries. These antioxidant-filled gems, which include blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, are packed with fibre, which can help maintain your focus by controlling your blood sugar levels.
You also want to engage in regular physical activities. Exercise has been shown to increase energy levels even in people suffering from chronic medical conditions associated with fatigue, such as heart disease and cancer. Proper breathing, hydration, correct posture, and quality rest are all essential for an energetic and productive day.
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