In our fast-paced society, energy drinks have become a popular way to get a quick boost, but a recent study sheds light on serious and potentially fatal health risks that may be linked to drinks like Red Bull, Monster and Rockstar.
The study, presented on Dec. 2 at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), was conducted by German researchers who found that consumption of energy drinks can significantly increase heart contraction rates in adults.
The researchers, from the University of Bonn, studies three women and 15 men for a total of 18 adult subjects. Each participant was given an MRI before consuming energy drinks, then another MRI an hour after consumption to evaluate any changes in heart function. Increased strain was noted in the left ventricles of the hearts of participants after they consumed an energy drink. This is the part of the heart responsible for transporting oxygenated blood from the lungs to the rest of the body.
The average age of the participants was 27 and all subjects were in good health at the time of the study. They were each given a beverage with 400 mg of taurine and 32 mg of caffeine.
The researchers did not evaluate the longevity of the effects of the beverages and they noted no differences in blood pressure or heart rate in subjects given energy drinks. While they make no statements on the potential effect of the drinks on daily activity or athletic performance, they do note that people with known heart rhythm issues and children should avoid energy drinks.
As energy drinks have become much more popular in recent years, so have claims that the beverages can be dangerous. A recent study based on reports from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reflects that from 2007 to 2011, emergency room trips resulting from the side effects of energy drinks nearly doubled. The American Heart Association also published a study suggesting that energy drink consumption may interfere with the heart’s electoral operations.
Common reasons for seeking medical attention for energy drink side effects include seizures and heart palpitations. A number of families claim to have lost loved ones, mainly children, to problems caused by energy drinks.
If you or someone you love has been hospitalized for energy drink side effects, you could be entitled to significant compensation. Contact the Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C. for a free legal consultation.