Being a college student, the pressure to stay up and be active so we can finish our school work and get through the day can be enticing.
This makes the idea of energy and health drinks very appealing and, with colorful labels and a variety of enticing flavors, it can be easy to think of them as safe and healthy.
Kayelyn Pohl, a masters student in nutrition and dietetics and graduation assistant in the Nutrition Coaching office, discussed the healthiness of most energy drinks.
“The high sugar, artificial sweeteners, caffeine and other additives in most energy drinks make them unhealthy, regardless of marketing claims,” Pohl said.
Another issue Pohl mentioned was energy drinks are not fully regulated by the Food and Drug Administration which can make them dangerous.
Pohl also mentioned the FDA doesn’t regulate caffeine content in drinks, which can lead to various health concerns.
“While small amounts of caffeine can enhance mental alertness, energy and mood, excessive consumption can lead to dehydration, stomach issues and headaches from caffeine withdrawal,” Pohl said. “While some individuals may include energy drinks in moderation as part of a healthy diet, they are not inherently healthy, and for many people, the potential risks may outweigh any benefits.”
Some energy drinks like Celsius Essentials may contain things such as vitamins and aminos, but there’s still health risks from other ingredients.
“Adding electrolytes and vitamins can make a drink more nutritious, but it doesn’t necessarily make it healthier overall,” Pohl said. “Especially if the drink still contains high levels of sugar, artificial ingredients or excessive caffeine.”
When looking for more healthier options for energy or hydration Pohl recommends finding a more balanced mix, with less caffeine, natural ingredients and less sugar.
Energy drinks such as V8 Energy and Bubbl’r act as more natural drinks with no added sugar and lower amounts of caffeine.
The caffeine and sugar content are definitely some of the biggest concerns to be aware of as they can lead to sugar crashes, dehydration and overstimulation that may lead to health concerns in the future, according to Pohl.
As with any food or drink, the best recommendation is to enjoy it with moderation and be informed about the ingredients in what you consume.
Next time you’re cramming for an exam and reaching for an energy drink, consider your health and find a healthier way to stay awake.
For more information on your nutrition concerns and to sign up for one-on-one coaching or events, visit the Recreation Center Nutrition Coaching office.
