These drinks have become popular among consumers, but are they safe and do they work?

Energy drinks are grabbing a growing share of the beverage market. Containing caffeine and various combinations of other ingredients, these drinks claim to boost energy, sharpen alertness, lower reaction time, improve concentration, and increase stamina.

Studies have shown that caffeine improves mental and physical performance. Guarana, also found in many of these products, contains a lot of caffeine. Beyond that, there’s little conclusive research on the effects of many energy drink ingredients.

Learning what is and isn’t known about this thriving drink category can help you decide if it should or shouldn’t be part of your daily routine. Here are some of the pros and cons about energy drinks.

• They appear to be safe when used with restraint. Energy drinks are OK when consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet, according to the International Food Information Council.
• Some ingredients have not been widely researched. There’s no conclusive evidence on the effectiveness and safety in higher dosages of taurine, carnitine, and panax ginseng—three ingredients that show up in many energy drinks.
• Many are high in calories. Added sugar is a popular feature of energy drinks. A 16-ounce container of one brand offers 60 grams of sugar and 260 calories.
• Labels lack complete information. Although energy drink labels list ingredients, they aren’t required to specify how much caffeine a serving or bottle contains. That can make it hard for consumers to keep track. One researcher who tested 10 popular energy drinks found some had up to 141 milligrams of caffeine—the equivalent of almost four cans of Coke or 1.5 cups of coffee.
• They contain a lot of empty calories. Although some drinks offer vitamins and minerals, for the most part these concoctions contain lots of caffeine.
• Undesirable side effects are possible. Side effects depend on the person and how much caffeine and other ingredients are consumed. They may include dehydration, a faster heart rate, and increased blood pressure in adults. Children who consume too much caffeine can become agitated, nervous, or irritable. The Food and Drug Administration cautions pregnant women to use caffeine moderately.
• These beverages should not be combined with alcohol. That mixture can make people feel less intoxicated than they are. As a result, they may be more likely to drink more alcohol or to believe they’re sober enough to drive.
• Drug interactions may take place. Prescription medication could interact with a beverage’s vitamins, minerals, or herbal ingredients.
• Withdrawal symptoms are possible. Not having a caffeine-fueled energy drink after using them day after day can cause withdrawal symptoms. You might have a headache and feel tired.
• High prices are part of the deal. Ounce for ounce, energy drinks and energy shots cost a bundle. For example: a 2-ounce 5-Hour Energy goes for about $2.50, an 8.3-ounce can of Red Bull will set you back $2.20, and a 16-ounce Monster Energy costs $2.

The Bottom Line
Most adults can safely quaff energy drinks every so often without suffering adverse health effects, and they may gain a boost in alertness and energy. However, young children, teens, and pregnant or nursing women should watch their use carefully—or reach for other beverages.

By Barbara Floria, senior writer for Vitality. For more information, visit the International Food Information Council at www.ific.org.

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