It’s no joke that energy drinks are a huge topic when it comes to health. Many people say they’re terrible for you, but what is so bad about them? Is it the caffeine content, sugar, carbohydrates, or other ingredients? Whatever it may be, I’m here to give you some insight.
Do you remember when you were younger and someone told you that if you cannot pronounce an ingredient in a food, you shouldn’t eat it? This is an old wives’ tale. Let’s look at water for an example. The scientific name of water or H2O is Dihydrogen Monoxide. Now, if someone asked if you would like a glass of Dihydrogen Monoxide, would you be a little wary not knowing it was water? This is just one example of long scientific names scaring the general population.
Let’s take a look at the back of an energy drink, let’s say BANG by VPX Sports. BANG is much like any other zero calorie energy drink, but with a little more caffeine (300mg per can) and a couple other ingredients (amino acids, CoQ10, and creatine). You will see a lot of unfamiliar ingredients and a warning that this product is intended for individuals 18 years and older. These are two things that might turn you away from the product. But, if you look at the ingredients, you will find the lack of calories, sugar, carbs, and a lot of other additives that many other energy drinks include. Along with being zero calorie, you will also find vitamins in a BANG. These vitamins include Vitamin C, B6, B12, Niacin, and Magnesium. Quite the BANG for your buck, eh?
So, how can these zero calorie energy drinks taste great and truly have zero calories? Sucralose! Sucralose is an artificial no-calorie sweetener that you may have heard of. It is accepted by the FDA and many other food safety regulatory bodies. Although it is FDA approved, it’s much like many other artificial sweeteners. It’s not terrible for you in small doses, just be sure to consume in moderation like anything else.
According to healthline.com, “Most of the health concerns involving energy drinks center on their caffeine content.” Along with this statement, it is also mentioned that “adults consume no more than 400mg of caffeine per day. This is dependent on your sensitivity to caffeine of course. This is where knowing your body comes into the picture. If you know that you can handle 500 to 600mg of caffeine per day, then go for it. But of course, we are not doctors, so we recommend that you enjoy energy drinks in moderation. If you’re having troubles staying awake during the day, hit the hay earlier!
Do we recommend energy drinks? We recommend zero calorie “diet” energy drinks. If you drink the regular sugar-packed ones, give the zero calorie ones a try, they’re a little better for you! However, if you enjoy the taste and feeling from them, there’s nothing wrong with that. But, if you’re consuming three or four of them a day, just know that there may be some health effects. Always remember that from foods to energy drinks, moderation is the key to a happy and healthy lifestyle.
Midwest Meals LLC is not a doctor or registered dietitian. The contents of this guide should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, care, or prevent any health problem - nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health.