Energy Drinks Surge in Popularity

Second wave energy drinks like Celsius, GHOST, and Alani Nu are gaining popularity as better-for-you alternatives to traditional energy drinks or coffee.

Muscle Growth Myth

A study showed mouse muscle cells exposed to energy drinks had a 90 percent reduction in markers of muscle-cell differentiation.

“In a study published in Scientific Reports, mouse muscle cells exposed to certain energy drinks in a laboratory had a more than 90 percent reduction in markers of muscle-cell differentiation, a step in the process of making and repairing muscle.”

Cancer Risk Myth

One study suggested people who consumed the most Acesulfame-K had a 13 percent higher risk of developing cancer.

“There's one study in humans suggesting that people who consumed the most Acesulfame-K had a 13 percent higher risk of developing cancer.”

Heart Health Concerns

Energy drinks can increase blood pressure and heart rate, potentially contributing to serious heart problems when consumed in excess.

“In reasonable amounts, caffeine, a mild stimulant, can be safe or even beneficial. But in excess, it can increase blood pressure and heart rate and potentially contribute to serious heart problems.”

Liver Damage Myth

Extreme doses of niacin can be toxic to the liver, but one energy drink is unlikely to cause liver failure.

“While niacin, or vitamin B3, is an important nutrient that helps our bodies metabolize food, extreme doses of niacin can be toxic to your liver.”

Dietitian Insights

Dietitians say caffeine in reasonable amounts helps train harder, but excessive consumption can hinder muscle growth and heart health.

“If you don't have the proper amount of protein and rest and repair, you will not build a mass, says Wendi A. Irlbeck, MS, RDN, LD, CISSN, owner of Nutrition with Wendi.”

Safe Consumption Tips

Dietitians recommend consulting a professional for those with chronic kidney disease or gastrointestinal problems when consuming energy drinks.

“But if you have certain conditions such as chronic kidney disease or gastrointestinal problems, work with a dietitian to find the safest option for you.”

Heart Attack Cases

Doctors reported severe heart problems in men who consumed energy drinks excessively, including a 28-year-old who had a heart attack after drinking two to five cans per day.

“A 28-year-old had a heart attack after drinking two to five cans of energy drinks per day.”

What Happens Next

Energy drinks should be consumed in moderation to avoid health risks while still benefiting from their performance-enhancing properties.

“If you take in B vitamins, that's not necessarily going to give you an instant energy boost, says Kylee Van Horn, RD, CSSD, sports dietitian at Fly Nutrition.”