Energy Drinks & Shots: Do They Really Boost Energy and Are They Safe?

Answer:

Energy drinks and shot-sized drinks are among the most popular dietary supplements consumed in the U.S. — particularly among teens and young adults. They are promoted for increasing energy, as well as enhancing mental alertness and improving physical performance, although, in many cases, they don't actually deliver much real energy (i.e., calories) and often contain certain ingredients that may be unsafe if consumed in excess (NCCIH, 7/2018).

Sign in as a member to learn about the health effects and safety of ingredients found in energy drinks including caffeine and caffeine-containing herbal ingredients such as guarana, yerba mate, and green tea, B vitamins (including niacin), bitter orange, L-carnitine, ginseng and taurine. Also, find out if clinical research supports the effects of energy drinks for boosting energy and alertness and improving muscle power; and learn about potential adverse effects of energy drinks including insomnia, aggression, skin flushing, and serious cardiovascular including heart attack. Brands discussed include 5-Hour Energy, ABE, Alani Nu, Bloom, Bucked Up, Celsius, Ghost, Ketone IQ, Monster, The Organics, OxyShred, Red Bull, Rockstar, and RYSE Fuel.