r or not energy drinks are safe. Use of energy drinks is becoming a standard for athletes to obtain optimal performance. These drinks typically contain caffeine and herbal supplements with the main ingredient being carbohydrates. Drinks that contain more than 25g/oz of carbohydrate will slow gastric emptying and increase dehydration. Edell noted further that when a drink is consumed too soon before a competition, drinks with higher sugar content might lead to nausea or vomiting. If the drink has too much fructose this may cause diarrhea. Diarrhea and vomiting exacerbate dehydration. Thus, Edell concluded that for these reasons energy drinks should not be used to rehydrate a person.
Edell also stated that high sugar levels will ultimately lead to a crash in energy following the high which takes place 30 to 45 minutes later. This may lead to dizziness and fatigue with poor muscle operations.
Edell (2009) stated that caffeine is also found in these drinks; this is a substance that stimulates the central nervous system which leads to an energized feeling. The effect is temporary and will be followed by the opposite around 120 minutes later. Large amounts of caffeine needed for this boost have side effects such as acting as a diuretic or laxative which enhances dehydration and a laxative effect which also enhances dehydration. Herbs found in energy drinks include kola nuts, guarana seeds, and Yerba mate leaves. These herbs have different amounts of caffeine and require more caffeine to be added so that amounts are consistent. Other herbs added include: Astragalus, Echinacea, Schizandrae, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, Ciwjuia, hydroxycitrate, and ephedra. There is little scientific proof to support the use of these herbs for athletic performance or energy boosts and many interact with prescription medications or lead to allergic reactions, mild and severe (to include death). Pyruvate (a salt of pyruvic acid) may be fo...