How safe are instant energy drinks?
Sales of energy-boosting drinks almost trebled last year. But do they live up to their healthy image? Most energy drinks provide a combination of fast and slow-acting sugars and uplifting ingredients such as caffeine and herbs. But experts are concerned the stimulants are too potent. Red Bull, a popular energy drinks with trendy young clubbers and sports enthusiasts, is under investigation in Sweden after reports that three people died after drinking it. The recommendation from the Swedish authorities is that you should not mix it with alcohol or drink it after exercise because too much caffeine may lead to thickening of the arteries in susceptible people. Trendy energy drinks should not be confused with specialist sports drinks. Most of these are labelled isotonic – they have the same concentration of dissolved particles as body fluids, are easily absorbed and increase the rate at which water is delivered to the body. But even these are not necessary for the average gym user. ‘If you
