A cardiologist at the South Heart Clinic in Harlingen, Texas, is warning people with heart issues to avoid energy drinks at all costs. Dr. James Stone says that while a typical 8.4-ounce energy drink contains 80 milligrams of caffeine, the issue is not just the caffeine, but the combination of multiple stimulants in one drink.
Risks Associated with Energy Drinks
Stone notes that energy drinks typically contain caffeine, added sugars, and other additives like taurine, guarana, and L-carnitine. These stimulants can have a harmful effect on the nervous system and potentially lead to heart rhythm issues, which can be dangerous or catastrophic for people with pre-existing heart conditions.
The American Beverage Association claims that energy drinks have been safely consumed for decades, but researchers caution that they can trigger life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias in patients with genetic heart disease. Stone advises people with heart failure or coronary artery disease to avoid energy drinks altogether, as they can counteract the effects of medications like beta blockers.
Instead of energy drinks, Stone recommends drinking black coffee, which has health benefits and contains less caffeine. The American Heart Association suggests that up to five cups of coffee per day, or 400 milligrams of caffeine, is safe for most adults and may be linked to cardiovascular health benefits.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
