Marketed as a mental and physical enhancer, energy drinks are known to contain stimulants such as caffeine, and guarana, that are commonly associated with cardiovascular side effects including arterial hypertension and cardiac arrhythmia. However, especially among adolescents, consumption remain high despite the known effect and dangers.
When this energy drinks are consumed in combination with chronic medical conditions or with illicit stimulants, these drinks are known to be associated with adverse cardiovascular side effects, such as cardiac arrhythmias and myocardial ischemia.
Studies have indicated a high consumption of energy drinks in adults can result in increased arterial blood pressure. While in youngsters it may be responsible for increased blood pressure by lowering the efficiency of the left ventricle along with arterial stiffness.
Studies have also indicated, individuals with an acute energy drink consumption, the hepatic, neuropsychological and renal impacts are visible.
The association between various adverse health effects in minors and excess consumption of energy drinks, results are reported in present studies. The review included a total of 18 cases, cardiovascular systems or neuropsychiatric health events were included in majority of the findings. It also indicated the existence of other potential triggers or preexisting health conditions constitutes 61% of these cases.
Since the effect of caffeine consumption is linked to increase left – ventricular inotropy and vasoconstriction, resulting in adverse cardiovascular effects and high blood pressure. In extreme case of consuming energy drinks, the occurrence of supraventricular extrasystoles and increased arterial stiffness is experienced, leading to higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Neuropsychiatric impacts such as psychotic episodes, panic attacks, overexcitation of the brain cortex leading to headaches and hyperexcitability and linked to the chronic consumption of caffeinated energy drinks.
Studies have also proven that in certain cases experience, onset seizures, intoxication, caffeine- related disorder and anxiety.
Consuming energy drinks are also proven to have adverse effects on brain development, resulting in sleep disorder, attention disorder and hyperactivity.
Studies have also linked excessive consumption of energy drinks to liver injuries, caused by the presence of niacin in these drinks and the link to the renal system including chronic kidney disease.
Conclusion with regard to the findings is that in minors, severe adverse effects on health with excessive intake of energy drinks. Individuals with preexisting conditions or consumption along with stimulants or party drugs, can affect cardiovascular and neuropsychological health.
