Medical Professionals Warn Against Energy Drinks

A recent study published by the Journal of the American Heart Association warns that high levels of caffeine and other stimulants commonly found in popular energy drinks could have unintended health risks. A detailed article on the study and its findings is available here.

The Study’s Findings

The study suggests the use of caffeinated energy drinks can alter the heart’s natural electrical activity and raise a user’s blood pressure. While the change in electrical impulses is considered mild, medical professionals warn people on certain medications and patients with specific heart conditions could face risks, including irregular heartbeat or potentially fatal arrhythmia.

Concerning Ingredients

Most energy drinks contain very high levels of caffeine, added sugars, amino acids, and multiple vitamins. Many brands contain legal stimulants—including guarana, taurine, and L-carnitine.

The American Beverage Association maintains that energy drinks are safe, noting their ingredients are found in other foods. Despite concerns, the market for energy drinks remains strong. In 2018, total sales totaled over 11 billion dollars.

Critics counter that energy drinks contain high concentrations of stimulants. They suggest the effects when combined with caffeine may be greatly enhanced. The World Health Organization says energy drinks may pose a danger to public health. At the same time, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that children should not consume energy drinks.

Other Effects

As we reported in an earlier blog, a 2015 paper published in the International Journal of Health Sciences linked caffeine consumption over 200 milligrams per day to a risk of caffeine intoxication. While the Mayo Clinic states up to 400 milligrams per day is safe for most adults, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends adolescents aged 12 to 18 consume no more than 100 milligrams per day. They say more than this may contribute to high blood pressure.

Graves McLain is Here to Help

If you or someone you love has suffered potentially harmful health effects after the use of energy drinks, call Graves McLain right away at 918-359-6600 or fill out a free consultation form online. When you call one of our experienced Tulsa, Oklahoma Product Liability Attorneys; we will speak with you for FREE and determine the best course of action.

We review every detail of your situation at no cost to you—and fight hard to protect your rights. Trust our team, we are here to help. At Graves McLain, you will never pay an attorney’s fee upfront—and you owe us nothing until we win your case. At Graves McLain, we don’t get paid until you do.

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