Looking for a boost of energy, young people are increasingly turning to energy drinks as their first resort. However, many are unaware of the potential negative effects of these products and are consuming more and more of them. A new study led by researchers at the renowned American medical center Mayo Clinic highlights a worrying correlation between the consumption of energy drinks and the increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
The results of this research, which could have significant implications for consumers and health professionals, raise major concerns about the effects of these popular beverages, particularly in individuals with genetic predispositions to heart disease.
Energy drinks are widely consumed for their stimulating effects, mainly due to their high content of caffeine and other ingredients such as taurine, guarana and B vitamins. Although these products are often marketed to improve alertness and performance , their impact on cardiovascular health is increasingly questioned.
The research team studied 144 survivors of sudden cardiac arrest, among whom 7 patients had consumed one or more energy drinks shortly before the incident. These results prompted scientists to take a closer look at the nature of the drinks consumed and the context of each cardiac arrest. They found that “consumption of these drinks could potentially trigger heart attacks in people with hereditary heart conditions, such as Brugada syndrome or long QT syndrome”.
Although the study did not definitively prove that energy drink consumption directly causes cardiac arrest, it does reveal a significant link that deserves careful attention. The scientists insisted that “individuals genetically predisposed to heart problems should avoid these drinks or consume them in great moderation”.
In search of instant stimulation, young people and athletes opt for energy drinks. These products are known to increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can cause overload of the cardiovascular system, especially in those with a history of heart disease. Caffeine, in particular, can lead to tachycardia (rapid increase in heart rate) and hypertension (high blood pressure), both risk factors for cardiac arrest. Furthermore, other ingredients are not innocent, stimulating in nature, they may have synergistic effects that amplify these risks.
Researchers therefore recommend that consumers, especially those with genetic predispositions to heart problems, exercise caution. “Moderation is advised, and it is best to consult a healthcare professional to assess the personal risks associated with consuming energy drinks”, advise the specialists.
