MedicalXpress: energy drinks in moderation are not harmful to a healthy heart

The chemicals contained in energy drinks in moderate amounts cannot harm a healthy heart. However, such drinks can provoke potentially life-threatening arrhythmias in people with a genetic predisposition to myocardial diseases. Cardiologist Michael Ackerman from the Mayo Clinic (a major research and medical center in the United States) told MedicalXpress.

According to the cardiologist, energy drinks contain stimulating ingredients (taurine, sugars) in addition to large amounts of caffeine. If consumed in moderation when needed, these drinks can be a boon for people who need to perk up to participate in any active activity. Heart health will not be harmed by such drinks. However, energy drinks can be dangerous for people with a genetic predisposition to heart disease.

The doctor explained that although energy drinks do not directly cause cardiac arrest, their consumption, especially in large quantities, can cause various dangerous pathologies such as arrhythmias. Lack of sleep, which is the most common reason for drinking energy drinks, additionally increases the risk of worsening heart problems.

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