I get it. The appeal is there! Energy drinks boost energy and fight fatigue. That's what the clever ads tell you.
It seems like they're the answer when you need that instant boost, the truth is far from it.
There's an increasing number of emergency room visits and deaths too!
What Happens After You Guzzle an Energy Drink?
Energy drinks give you high doses of caffeine and sugar. Some brands also have a mix of electrolytes and specific nutrients. But it doesn't mean it is right for you!
A study from the David Grant Medical Center on Travis Air Force Base found that energy drinks –
a. Increase blood pressure
b. cause harmful changes to heart function
c. can cause irregularities in the heartbeat
Manufacturers claim that the caffeine content in energy drinks is like that of a coffee. But that's not the full picture.
Most energy drinks come with a “proprietary blend.” It's a combination of stimulants, isolated nutrients, and plant derivatives.
Researchers say that the way caffeine interacts with this “blend” can be harmful to the body. So, it is not the caffeine alone that causes this effect.
Take, for instance, the ingredient taurine, a common one in energy drinks.
- High levels of taurine can alter the mineral and water balance in your body.
- High amounts of caffeine can alter the way blood flows in the body.
The result? It can affect the blood platelet levels causing the blood to thicken.
This can lead to a potential cardiac arrest.
Besides, energy drinks also have a terrible effect on the brain.
Research lists the following conditions:
- Anxiety
- Sleeplessness
- Muscle twitches
- Gastrointestinal irritation
- Restlessness
Other possible concerns include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Excitement-seeking behavior or hyperactive state
- Poor dental health
- Weight issues & Type 2 diabetes (due to high sugar content)
- Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or a headache
I don't know about you but they are not what I have in mind when I'm looking to increase my energy! But don't fret, there are safe and natural ways to boost your energy!
4 Safer Ways to Boost Your Energy
1. Stay Hydrated
Feeling tired is one of the first sign of dehydration. Dehydration can bring changes in blood pressure, which can affect your ability to focus.
Besides water, try coconut water, fresh vegetables like cucumber, and squash to stay hydrated.
Tweet2. Increase B Vitamin-Rich Foods
Vitamins like thiamine, B6, and B12 have a role in energy release.
Include foods containing these vitamins like spinach, organic eggs, and organic meat.
Beans, seeds, nuts, and vegetables like cabbage and broccoli are high in B vitamins.
Seafood, poultry, and meat are rich in Vitamin B12.
3. Exercise
Incorporate an exercise plan into your routine. Exercise lifts your energy levels, by helping your heart and lungs work well.
You don't have to run a marathon, a brisk walk, taking the stairs, a quick game of badminton can all help boost it up.
4. Breathing Techniques
Practice proper breathing techniques.
Instead of quick, shallow breaths, make slow and mindful breathing a habit. Mindful breathing allows your lungs to fill with air.
It nourishes every cell in your body, the result, a clear head and a quick boost to your energy.
Remember, to watch your eating habits. Always choose fresh, and avoid processed and refined foods to keep your body energized.
Oh and speaking of drinks that are terrible for your body…look at what happens within minutes of drinking a soda.
Yours in health and happiness,
Danette
P.S. Please share this with your friends who toss back energy drink after energy drink and I invite you to leave me a comment below. Did you realize energy drinks can be dangerous?
