Energy drinks promise to boost your energy levels and improve your focus, but research suggests that these beverages might jeopardize your health in various ways. One major concern is the risky effects of mixing energy drinks with alcoholic beverages.
The Dangerous Combination
When you often combine energy drinks with alcohol, you’re more likely to consume larger quantities of alcohol, which, in turn, heightens the risk of developing alcohol-related problems. A study conducted at the University of Maryland found that individuals who consumed energy drinks were more likely to initiate alcohol consumption at a younger age and consume more alcohol per drinking session.
According to Amelia Arria, director of the Center on Young Adult Health and Development at the University of Maryland School of Public Health, energy drink use is still associated with alcohol dependence even after factoring in risk-taking characteristics. This increased dependency on alcohol arises because the caffeine in energy drinks can lead to a state of “wide-awake drunkenness.”
Wide-Awake Drunkenness
Caffeine’s stimulating effects can mask the feeling of being intoxicated without curbing alcohol-induced impairment. In other words, you may believe that you are less drunk than you are, leading to the consumption of more alcohol and a likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, such as drunk driving.
As explained by Kathleen Miller, a research scientist from the Research Institute on Addictions at the University at Buffalo, caffeine does not counteract the impairment caused by alcohol; it merely conceals its most apparent signs.
Other Health Risks Associated with Energy Drinks
Aside from the potential risks of mixing energy drinks with alcohol, these beverages also pose several other health hazards.
Heart Problems
Due to the high levels of caffeine and other stimulants present in energy drinks, they can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. This may put you at risk for heart palpitations, chest pain, or even more serious heart issues. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, consuming energy drinks can result in significantly higher heart rate and blood pressure levels, with some effects seen even hours after consumption.
Dehydration
Caffeine is a diuretic, which means it increases urine production and can potentially lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause several health issues such as dizziness, confusion, and even kidney damage in extreme cases. This is particularly concerning when combining energy drinks with alcohol, as alcohol is also a diuretic, exacerbating the dehydration effects.
Anxiety and Insomnia
The high caffeine levels in energy drinks can not only cause rapid heart rate and increased blood pressure but can also lead to anxiety and sleep disturbances. This may be especially harmful to individuals who have pre-existing anxiety disorders. Lack of sleep can lead to short-term cognitive impairment and a weakened immune system, and when experienced long term, can result in chronic health conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
Dependency
Due to the high caffeine content in energy drinks, regular consumption can lead to addiction, with withdrawal symptoms experienced once caffeine intake decreases. These symptoms may include headaches, irritability, extreme fatigue, and an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
Safer Alternatives
Considering the various health risks associated with energy drinks, it’s worth considering healthier alternatives to boost your energy levels.
- Opt for a moderate amount of caffeine through coffee or tea, which contain antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds.
- Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, aiming for 7 to 9 hours per night.
- Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, which can help boost your energy and improve your overall well-being.
- Maintain a healthy diet with whole foods rich in vitamins and nutrients necessary for sustaining energy levels.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Ultimately, it’s crucial to be aware of the dangers associated with energy drinks, particularly when combined with alcohol. By opting for healthier alternatives and maintaining an overall balanced lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of energy drink-related health issues and prevent potential alcohol dependence.
