Energy drinks are popular with students coping with examinations, working adults preparing with presentations, national servicemen before IPPT and even clubbers wanting to last all night on the dance floor.
What are in these energy drinks?
Some of these drinks claim to provide more than just energy. Some even claim to boost libido for those people wishing "to go the distance". All these drinks, whether they are sugary or peppery, are said to contain "energy boosting" chemicals such as tyrosine, caffeine, Vitamin B, taurine, phenylalanine, and herbs like ginseng and guarana.
Are the ingredients harmful?
Since the main ingredient of most energy drinks is caffeine, it is wise to drink in moderation. A typical energy drink contains 10 to 12 grams of sugar per 100 ml (a can is usually 250 ml), but most of the "buzz" you obtain is from caffeine. The caffeine content is usually two to three cups of strong coffee. The concentrated dose of caffeine in an energy drink may cause stomach upsets, insomnia or make you easily agitated.
What else should you be concerned with?
The high sugar content means energy drinks should be consumed with moderation. Taking too much sugar has been linked to problems such as tooth decay, diabetes and spiked insulin levels. Depending on your body's reaction, there may be other side effects such as irritability, restlessness, nervousness and high blood pressure.
What are good alternatives to energy drinks?
Good alternatives are flesh fruits juices from orange, starfruit, apple, figs and dates, flavoured yogurt or any smoothie made with real fruits.
At the very least, a cup of water makes a better energy supplement than a sugary energy drink.
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