Dr. James Stone, a cardiologist at the South Heart Clinic in Harlingen, Texas, warns that energy drinks can be detrimental to heart health. He advises heart patients to avoid them at all costs.
Energy Drink Risks
Energy drinks typically contain caffeine, added sugars, and other stimulants like taurine, guarana, and L-carnitine. The combination of these stimulants can lead to potential heart rhythm issues, which can be dangerous or catastrophic for heart patients.
Stone recommends that people with heart issues opt for black coffee instead, which has health benefits and does not contain the same level of stimulants as energy drinks. The American Heart Association suggests that up to five cups of coffee per day, equivalent to 400 milligrams of caffeine, is safe for most adults and may have cardiovascular health benefits.
The American Academy of Pediatrics advises adolescents against consuming energy drinks due to the potential risks. Stone sees many young people, athletes, and night shift workers experiencing palpitations after consuming energy drinks to stay awake or feel more alert.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut — read the source article.
