By Lindenberg Junior
Translation: Leandro Saueia
The main ingredients in most energy drinks are sugar and caffein
In the last decade, energy drinks have become a staple in supermarkets, gas stations, and gyms across the globe. Their marketing is powerful—often linking them to sports performance, long study sessions, or all-night parties. But behind the flashy cans and slogans, what do these drinks really do to your body?
The main ingredients in most energy drinks are sugar and caffeine. They often include extras like guaraná, taurine, glucuronolactone, B vitamins, and sometimes herbal stimulants such as ginseng, ginkgo biloba, or green tea extract. While some of these ingredients can temporarily increase alertness and energy, research shows that excessive consumption comes with serious health risks.
The Hidden Dangers of Mixing Energy Drinks and Alcohol
Brazilian researchers from the University of São Paulo discovered that when young men mixed alcohol with energy drinks, they didn’t feel as impaired as when drinking alcohol alone—yet their coordination and reflexes were just as affected.This “false sense of sobriety” is dangerous. Dr. Maria Lucia Souza-Formigoni, co-author of the study, warned that people under this influence may drive, take risks, or consume more alcohol than they realize.
Other studies, including those published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, confirm that combining alcohol (a depressant) with energy drinks (a stimulant) can place extreme stress on the cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary systems, even leading to life-threatening complications.
How Energy Drinks Affect Different Parts of the Body
- Brain: Caffeine stimulates adrenaline, reducing fatigue and sleepiness. This can mask alcohol’s sedative effects, leading to overconsumption.
- Heart : Taurine and caffeine stimulate heart muscles, increasing heartbeat and blood pressure—risky for those with heart conditions or hypertension.
- Liver: Some compounds, like taurine and glucuronolactone, may aid detoxification, but their long-term impact in high doses remains unclear.
- Muscles: : B vitamins and sugars provide quick energy, improving short-term performance but often causing a crash later.
Updated Health Recommendations for 2025
- Moderation is key: Most health authorities recommend limiting energy drink intake to one serving per day– if at all.
- Vulnerable groups should avoid them: Children, teens, pregnant women, and people with heart disease, high blood pressure, or anxiety disorders should not consume energy drinks.
- Beware of hidden sugar: Many energy drinks contain up to 40 grams of sugar per can (equivalent to 10 teaspoons), contributing to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems.
- Caffeine overload: A single can may contain more caffeine than three cups of coffee. Over consumption can cause insomnia, heart palpitations, anxiety, and dehydration.
- Safer alternatives: For sustained energy, experts recommend hydration, balanced meals, exercise, and adequate sleep over stimulants.
Energy drink is a stimulant, but can be dangerous for the heart if consumed in excess.
Final Thoughts
Energy drinks can provide a short-term energy boost, but they are not a safe long-term solution. If consumed, they should be enjoyed in moderation – one can a day at most – and never mixed with alcohol. Healthier habits such as drinking water, getting quality rest, and fueling your body with nutrient-dense foods remain the safest and most effective way to stay energized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are energy drinks bad for your health?
Yes—when consumed frequently or in large amounts, they can increase the risk of heart problems, anxiety, and sleep disorders.
Is it safe to drink energy drinks every day?
Health experts advise limiting consumption to one serving per day. Daily use can cause caffeine dependency and other health risks.
Why is mixing energy drinks with alcohol dangerous?
The stimulant effects mask alcohol’s depressant effects, making people feel less drunk than they are, which increases accident and overdose risks.
Do energy drinks actually improve performance?
They may temporarily boost alertness and endurance, but often lead to dehydration, energy crashes, and long-term health consequences.
What are healthier alternatives to energy drinks?
Water, green tea, balanced meals, regular exercise, and quality sleep are the best ways to maintain natural energy.
