In a recent study published in the journal Nutrients, German scientists looked at the adverse health effects associated with the consumption of energy drinks by children and adolescents.
Energy drinks contain stimulants such as guarana and caffeine and have cardiovascular side effects, including cardiac arrhythmia and hypertension. Despite these known dangers, energy drink consumption remains high, especially among teenagers. In the present study, the researchers reviewed case reports that included a study population under the age of 18 with confirmed energy drink consumption.
Scientists have identified a link between excessive consumption of energy drinks and various adverse health effects in minors. In total, 18 cases were included in the review: most of the health problems after the use of energy drinks were associated with the neuropsychiatric or cardiovascular systems. In addition, 61% of these cases were associated with pre-existing medical conditions or the presence of other potential triggers.
About 45% of the case reports included in the review reported cardiovascular disease such as hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, spontaneous coronary artery dissection, and acute coronary artery spasm. Moreover, in some cases, cardiovascular side effects occurred without other triggers or medical conditions after drinking large amounts of energy drinks for several days.
While the neuropsychiatric effects of energy drinks remain largely under-researched, chronic consumption of caffeinated energy drinks is believed to be associated with panic attacks, psychotic episodes, hyperarousal and cortical overexcitation leading to headaches. pain.
Excessive consumption of energy drinks has also been associated with a case of liver damage due to the presence of niacin in these drinks, although the individual had a history of liver transplants and a predisposition to liver toxins. The review also discussed a case of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis associated with energy drink consumption. Other studies included in the review also discussed the impact of excessive consumption of energy drinks on the kidney system, such as an increased risk of chronic kidney disease.
Overall, the results showed that excessive consumption of energy drinks, especially those containing caffeine, can have serious adverse health effects in minors. The use of energy drinks by people with pre-existing medical conditions, or in conjunction with stimulants or drugs, can harm the cardiovascular and neuropsychological health of adolescents. Minors should be educated about the potential dangers of consuming energy drinks to help them make informed choices.