Written by: Alejandra Legarda - Journalist

According to research, the demographic group that consumes energy drinks the most is young men, particularly those between the ages of 18 and 34. In the United States, around one-third of teenagers between 12 and 17 years old also consume these beverages regularly.

Additionally, university students are another population that tends to consume energy drinks habitually, especially those looking to enhance their academic or physical performance. Energy drinks have become particularly popular among athletes and individuals who participate in activities requiring high energy levels.

This frequent consumption is linked to aggressive marketing targeting young people, raising concerns about the negative health effects.

Health Risks of Energy Drinks:

Energy drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants like guarana and taurine, which can lead to various health problems. These include increased heart rate, high blood pressure, dehydration, anxiety, and in severe cases, strokes or heart arrhythmias. The high sugar content also contributes to weight gain, tooth decay, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes.

What Happens When Energy Drinks Are Mixed with Coffee?

Mixing energy drinks with coffee exacerbates these risks. Both beverages contain caffeine, and combining them can lead to dangerous caffeine intake, resulting in jitteriness, anxiety, insomnia, and a significant increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

For those sensitive to caffeine or with pre-existing heart conditions, this combination can be particularly harmful, potentially causing more serious cardiovascular problems.

Addiction and Dependency:

Energy drinks can be addictive due to their high caffeine content. Regular consumption can lead to dependency, with symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and irritability when not consumed. Additionally, the temporary energy boost followed by a crash can create a cycle where individuals consume more to stay alert, increasing the risk of health complications.

In conclusion, while energy drinks offer a quick solution for generating energy and euphoria, their potential long-term health risks far outweigh the short-term benefits, especially when mixed with other stimulants or consumed in excess.