Energy drinks can be harmful for several reasons, especially when consumed frequently or in large amounts.
Here’s a breakdown of why they can be bad for you:
High caffeine content
High amounts of caffeine can overstimulate the nervous system and can lead to symptoms such as:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Anxiety, irritability, and insomnia
- Heart rhythm disturbances (especially in those with underlying issues)
Many energy drinks contain 200–300 mg of caffeine per serving, which is the equivalent of about 2–3 cups of coffee per drink. Caffeine combined with other stimulants like guarana, taurine, ginseng can stress the heart and exacerbate these symptoms.
High sugar content
Most energy drinks have 20–30 grams (or more) of sugar per can. Sugar-free versions contain artificial sweeteners that have their own risks and side-effects. High sugar intake can lead to:
- Weight gain and obesity
- Insulin resistance → increased risk of type 2 diabetes
- Tooth decay
Mental and emotional effects
Energy drinks can cause symptoms of jitteriness, restlessness, and poor concentration as well as mood swings and anxiety. They can also become addictive and so create dependency or withdrawal symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
Unregulated ingredients
Labelling is often not transparent. Many energy drinks contain herbal additives and stimulants that haven’t been well-studied. These can interact with medications or cause unexpected side effects.
Risk of overuse (Especially in teens and young adults)
Teens and young adults often find energy drinks appealing and they don’t always realise how harmful they can be, especially if consumed in large quantities.
The harmful effects of energy drinks combined with alcohol
Combining energy drinks with alcohol is especially dangerous. The risks of mixing energy drinks with alcohol include:
- False Sense of Sobriety
- Higher Risk of Accidents and Injuries
- Dehydration
- Higher Likelihood of Binge Drinking
- Potential for Addiction
Caffeine is a stimulant, while alcohol is a depressant. Caffeine masks the feeling of intoxication so people feel more alert than they really are, which can lead to drinking more than intended, impaired judgment and an increased risk of alcohol poisoning.
People who mix the two are more likely to engage in risky behaviors and they can underestimate the effects which can lead to falls, accidents, or fights.
Both alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, so overconsumption of either can lead to fluid loss, dehydration, increased risk of hangover symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
The combination may also increase psychological dependence. Because the stimulating effect can feel exciting, it can create a pattern of needing both substances together to be able to party or socialize.
Listen to my interview with Brad Kirsten from Radio Cape Pulpit on 03 July 2025 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am.