How is that energy drink affecting your heart?
You may want to think twice before you reach for that caffeine-loaded energy drink.
Drink too much, and your heart can literally race.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that drinking 32 ounces of energy drinks in an hour resulted in abnormally fast heart rates and higher blood pressure for several hours.
“Abuse of energy drinks can adversely affect your heart rhythm, which can be serious,” explains Dr. Imran Sheikh, electrophysiologist at Aurora BayCare Medical Center in Green Bay, Wis. “Caffeine is the likely culprit. It is best to be on the safe side and not abuse any caffeinated products.”
Dr. Sheikh offers some alternatives if energy drinks are your go-to:
- Green tea: “Just be sure to keep an eye on nutrition labels, if you’re buying your green tea pre-made, it can be crammed full of unnecessary sugar,” warns Dr. Sheikh.
- Ginger root tea: It’s good for your immune system and digestion, and may help you maintain energy levels.
- Protein shakes: If you don’t have enough protein in your diet, you may feel sluggish and tired. Consider reaching for a protein shake.
- Coffee: It gives you caffeine in less-potent doses. Just be sure to limit yourself to one to three 8-ounce cups per day.
- Water or coconut water: Both options prevent dehydration and therefore prevent fatigue.
- Smoothies: Smoothies rich with foods such as spinach, bananas and yogurt are great for boosting your energy naturally. Find recipes here.
If you are curious about your heart health, click here to take a free online quiz.
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health enews staff is a group of experienced writers from our Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care sites, which also includes freelance or intern writers.
Except for my daily 2 mugs of
unsweetened green tea I avoided caffeinated beverages. When I complained to my PCP about a fluttery heart sensation, he advised eliminating the green tea & see what happens. I did & the heart issue went away. Now I stick to herbal teas. They’re just as satisfying w/o out any negative issues for the caffeine sensitive.