These drinks come in cool colours and with cooler promises.
Youngsters are besotted by an array of energy drinks lining the shelves alongside aerated drinks.
But does a dose of energy these cans and bottles offer help? Read on to know:
Caffeine kicks and sugary threats
Energy drinks have a very high caffeine and sugar content that make you feel fresh and energised. And too much caffeine can cause jitters, a fast heartbeat, and trouble sleeping.
Also, though the sugar provides a burst of energy, watch out for a phenomenon called ‘sugar crash’ — when this energy wears off. This makes one feel very tired all over again.
The presence of quinine, used in drinks for giving them the fizz, is bad for the bones. Further, the high sugar content can lead to weight gain and cause cavities.
Addiction trouble
Caffeine can be addictive, whether it’s tea, coffee or energy drinks. So in case you don’t happen to find one, you may get headaches, become cranky or feel tired for a few days.
Source of vitamins and amino acids
Most energy drinks claim the presence of vitamins and even amino acids, popular with those high on bodybuilding. However, it’s much cheaper and safer to get from multi-vitamin supplements instead.
Or better, follow a well-balanced diet and opt for alternatives like natural juices.
Grapefruit and orange juice are good alternatives to replenish the lost electrolytes after physical activity.
Go natural
Energy drinks should not be confused with sports drinks
It doesn’t replace the water and minerals one loses when one sweats. In fact, caffeine can actually make you more dehydrated. Simply drink water instead.
And never combine energy drinks with alcohol. It can be dangerous because alcohol is a depressant, while the energy drink is a stimulant. Having them together may limit your body’s ability to realise how much alcohol you drank, giving you the feeling that you are not impaired. Also, it can cause bad dehydration. Due to the combined effect of the alcohol and the caffeine in the energy drink, you may urinate more often.