Beyond mood: the side effects of energy drinks on your heart

Drinking energy drinks may seem harmless, but it’s important to be mindful of the impact on cardiovascular health. After all, what are the side effects of energy drinks?

The desire for more energy and vitality is common—especially on days when fatigue takes over. 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 beverages containing caffeine, taurine, sugar, and other stimulants. In a 250-ml can, it’s common to find up to 90 mg of caffeine—the equivalent of nearly three cups of coffee. And there are options that exceed this amount, reaching levels close to 300 mg. According to the Brazilian Society of Cardiology (SBC), although moderate caffeine consumption may be safe, excessive intake is a risk factor for high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and even heart attacks.

 

When energy becomes an overload
The impact on the cardiovascular system begins immediately after consuming energy drinks. Caffeine stimulates the release of hormones such as adrenaline, which increases heart rate and blood pressure. In the long term, this constant stimulation can contribute to the development of conditions such as cardiomyopathy and atherosclerosis.

According to the São Paulo State Society of Cardiology (Socesp) notes that even young, healthy people can experience side effects from consuming energy drinks, such as tachycardia, dizziness, shortness of breath, and fainting, especially when the drink is mixed with alcohol. This combination can create a masked effect of intoxication and lead to excessive alcohol consumption and an increased risk of dehydration, cardiac overload, and accidents.

 

In addition to the heart, there are other effects of overindulgence
The symptoms extend beyond the cardiovascular system, as insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, tremors, gastrointestinal discomfort, and even caffeine intoxication can result from excessive and prolonged consumption of these beverages.

According to experts from the Mayo Clinic, ...people with genetic heart conditions are even more vulnerable, as excessive stimulants can trigger potentially serious arrhythmias.

 

Moderation is the best approach
Although they are widely available, energy drinks should not be viewed as harmless beverages. Pregnant women, children, the elderly, people with high blood pressure, diabetics, and those with a history of heart problems should avoid consuming them or seek medical advice before drinking them.

If you often feel low on energy, it’s important to find out why. A healthy diet, quality sleep, and regular physical activity are safe and healthy ways to boost your energy—and take care of your heart.

 

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The Effects of Energy Drinks on the Heart

Understand the link between energy drinks and heart problems