Energy drinks have become a regular part of everyday life for many people, from students to office workers.
They are marketed as quick solutions for increased energy and sharper focus and are often perceived as harmless.
However, according to cardiologists and nutrition experts, these beverages can have a rapid and noticeable effect on blood pressure.
According to Parade, physicians warn that liquid stimulants are absorbed by the body more quickly than solid foods.
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As a result, energy drinks can affect the cardiovascular system almost immediately after consumption, particularly when they are consumed several times a day.
Caffeine and hidden stimulants
Experts interviewed by Parade identify caffeine as the primary factor.
They reported, citing cardiologist Randy Gould, that caffeine stimulates the release of adrenaline, which can lead to a temporary increase in blood pressure within an hour.
The effect is often short-lived, but it can still place strain on the heart, even in people who have not been diagnosed with high blood pressure.
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Many energy drinks also contain other stimulants, such as guarana and synephrine.
According to cardiologists cited by Parade, these ingredients can intensify the body’s stress response.
The concern is that consumers are not always aware of the total amount of stimulating substances they are ingesting.
Repeated use increases the risk
The greatest concern arises with regular consumption.
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According to cardiologist Cheng-Han Chen can repeated intake increase the risk of sustained high blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders over time.
The issue is therefore not a single energy drink, but long-term consumption patterns.
Salt still plays an important role over the long term.
The American Heart Association emphasizes that high sodium intake gradually increases blood volume, and that reducing daily intake by 1,000 milligrams can significantly improve blood pressure.
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The message from experts is therefore not an either-or choice, but a need for greater awareness of energy drinks, which are widely available, heavily marketed, and often underestimated in terms of their health impact.
Sources: Parade, and American Heart Association.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.