A 32-year-old mother was recently outfitted with a pacemaker after drinking excessive amounts of energy drinks. Are these drinks really that dangerous to the human body? Learn more about how energy drink addiction can create health issues at any age.
Keeping up With Modern Life
The New York Post describes a British woman and her quest to keep up with her three children. She needed energy, so she turned to energy drinks.
She was drinking around five to six cans a day. Health issues started to plague her. Doctors insisted on fitting her with a pacemaker because her rhythms were dangerously off.
Caffeine’s Effects on the Human Body
The main ingredient in energy drinks is caffeine. When you drink more than one can a day, you’re adding many milligrams of caffeine to your diet.
The nervous system reacts with a hyperactive state. Your heart races, reports Healthline.
Drinking many cans on a daily basis forces your heart to beat at irregular rhythms. Over time, the heart begins to lose its natural rhythm.
Cardiovascular problems set in with subtle ease. You may not realize that there’s a problem until a serious issue arises, such as a heart attack.
Compounding Caffeine with Pre-Existing Conditions
Energy drinks can certainly harm the human body when consumed in large amounts. Serious issues can arise even faster if there’s a personal history of arrhythmia or heart disease in the family, reports the U.S. National Library of Medicine. A health condition doesn’t have to be present for energy drinks to make a negative impact either.
A person taking illicit drugs and combining them with excessive volumes of energy drinks can also induce heart problems.
Moderating anything in life is usually the best way to lead a healthy lifestyle. Consume energy drinks on occasion, but certainly not in great volume. Everyone’s well-being can improve with this mindset.
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SUZANNE BROCK says
MY SON AGE 17 NEARLY LOST HIS LIFE AFTER DRINKING 2 RED BULLS IT TOOK 14 HOURS OF OPEN HEART SURGURY TOP SAVE HIM BECAUSE HIS HEART WAS BEATING SO FAST IT WAS ABOUT TO EXPLODE AND NO HOSPITAL COULD SAVED HIM , I AM AN ADVICATE FOR BANNING ENERGY DRINKS IN CANADA COMPLETELY
Deb Jabs says
Was that first time he ever drank them or was this a daily thing?
Michele stewart says
She was drinking around five to six cans a day. read the article
R says
Michele Stewart. ….your reply about telling someone to “read the article” seemed quick, you yourself need to “read” before you react…..you replied to Deb Jabs who was asking an excellent question of the poster (Suzanne Brock) and NOT to the article. Comments like yours waste peoples time, no one wants or needs your negative energy.
Sheila says
Thank you for putting Michele Stewart in her place……she was RUDE.
Jan says
We all miss things…. If we can just be kind to each other that would be great!!
Juanita says
Amen to that. If u can’t say nothing nice don’t say nothing at all that’s what my momma always told me and really u don’t know what battles a person is going threw they may even be suicidal and u just being hateful to be hateful. Spread joy and happiness not anger and bitterness
Llg says
She meant the lady with the son…read the post…..
John says
What about people that drink coffee all day? This is bull s**t
Cynthia Jewett says
People who drink too much coffee can also have problems with their health. Energy drinks have other ingredients that when combined with caffeine make it worse. Take a look at how much sugar is in the drinks. So it’s not BS!
Juanita says
I think energy drinks have way more cafeine than coffee some of them 3 X’s the amount as coffee. I’ love them and drink them daily so how much caffeine does it take to be bad for u?
Timothy Ford says
agreed
Cc says
You said your son nearly died but then no hospital saved him? What happened?
Heh says
Canadian health care
Peter says
Thats exactly what i thort too what happened did he die or didnt he die??
Dork says
Nothing happened. They took him to 17 different hospitals then went back home to let him die in peace but he lived.
Denise Fletcher says
I think she means no hospital could save him from needing the 14 hours of surgery
Cheryl427 says
That’s Exactly what she said “ no hospital could save him”!
Angel says
sorry about your son but why would his medical anomaly warrant a ban for everyone?
Beetle says
No. They should only ban it for people who drink it for the first time and die….
Chris U says
… And then they should be arrested and also fined for being a health and legal burden.
LINDA says
You never know who can tolerate the drinks and who can’t is it worth it to push it. Just because you drank one today and are ok, doesn’t mean the one you drink tomorrow will be the same.
Peter says
Thats exactly right just because this happened to him but not everyone cant possibly be a good enough reason to ban the product thats like saying my son died driving whilst driving around a round about ban all round abouts or my son was bashed to death in jail ban jails not trying to be nasty but i dont think your doing the right thing past 5years ive been drinking 4 to 8 cans of mother energy drinks daily my heart dont race at all ive had no problem as of yet so you cant take it away from everyone just because of your son!.
The full story wasnt explained anyway you didnt say if he died or ehat all u said was no hospital could save him save what hes liver hes bowels hes life what happened to him exactly only thing that u made clear was that he drank 2 cans of red bull and u want to have it banned im sure everyone that reads this would like to know the full story please.
Michele Campbell says
How do you know you don’t have any medical problems. Most don’t have symptoms until it’s too late
Maegen Bell says
Punctuation?????
louanne says
I also drink about 2-3 5 days a week due to night shift and I’ve had ECG done and I’m healthy with no problems
Russ says
Just wait. It will catch up to you
Jeanie Branum says
Doesn’t mean it will stay that way. I got addicted to them an I am scared to death what it has done to my body. I want to quit I have wanted to quit an I am going to quit an I hope it’s not to late. I have been drinking them throughout the day for about 6 years
Taylor says
While ECG’s can provide information, they are not a 100% confirmation that your heart health is in good shape. I work in Cardiology and there have been plenty of cases where we did an ECG on a patient for a routine follow up for blood pressure or other typical issues & we just so happened to do it at the right time to catch their heart in an abnormal rhythm. Many people have Atrial Fibrillation and are not even aware.
JAMES MCNEELY says
i drink 2 to 3 a day no problems
Suzette Oliveira says
I agree I drink at least one can a day they just banned menthol cigarettes in Massachusetts which is where I am from so u smoke reg flavor but not menthol??? Makes no sense that’s just big brother trying to control ppl
more m more ….
Jason says
I am also from ma. And this state is stupid, because it just means all the people that smoke menthol will go to NH. And give that state all the revenue instead. Menthol is no different than regular brand flavor. These politicians need too worry about more important s**t, and let people live there life the way we CHOSE to.
Boo boo says
Because menthol cigarettes have fiber glass in them and Everytime you inhale your lungs bleed
A. Reed says
Its because menthol can crystallize in your lung.
Michelle Hewitt says
Actually, the reason menthols are coming under scrutiny is because of the crystals that form from the menthol flavoring. They’re trying to make cigarettes healthier! Haha. True story though.
Mary says
I also drink Red Bull, no carbs, no sugar daily and would rather drink that than soda. Fortunately it doesn’t affect everyone the same.
Jewell says
Wake up d*******, these drinks are dangerous! What is wrong with water! That is what we were meant to drink!
Lmao Noob says
Periods are your friend, Peter.
Priscilla says
😂
JD says
I do think this post about open heart surgery is BS! He had something else wrong with him. Irregular heart rates are handled with medication and if that doesn’t work electricity. Open heart surgery occurs when there is a blockage from high cholesterol. Not irregular heart rhythms from energy drinks…
Cheryl427 says
Omg seriously? She is just trying to warn others of the dangers of drinking too many energy drinks. If you want to drink them you can, just understand that they might cause health issues.
Jan says
Because he is not the only one that goes to the extreme without knowing what damage these drinks are going to do to people. Too many people have harmed themselves or others by playing jokes & replacing drinks with highly caffeinated drinks which then caused harm to those who drank too many.
We don’t need them in the USA. I would like to see then banned.
Hammer says
Gurrrtll please the lies you tell
Sandra says
I had a heart attack at 43 . Though I was born with a hole in my heart and they said it was Atrial fib and stress
jmt says
maybe the reason is your country and the health system why they almost didn’t save him…. sorry but true.
Patrick says
I’m 30 and just got a pacemaker put in due to energy drinks. Mainly drank monster and venom energy drinks and now my life is completely changed because of it…..
Ace Guzman says
How many did you drink a day?? I only drink venom, but to be honest I only have one a day. I don’t consume more then that. Is that still bad?
Connie Barlow says
Hi Ace, have you ever tried zeal? 100 % all natural energy drink. clinical study shows 23% increase in vigor & activity. FB for more info.
Deana carswell says
Connie Barlow.
Who makes that zeal? And where do you get it? I can drink a energy drink and lay down and go to sleep.ha it’s crazy I need something sting that gives you energy.
Cheryl427 says
Why not just drink purified drinking water, eating properly and going to bed at a decent hour in order to get the proper sleep needed for normal daily functionality?
Carla says
Sorry to hear this. I hope you’re doing well now. How many were you drinking a day? Just curious, because I have 1 a day, sometimes 2. I just stay drained and tired all the time. 🙁
Kathy Karaffa says
I totally understand how controversial this subject is but please stay away from energy drinks they’re not the answer to feeling better the answer is to eat well sleep well and drink plenty of water and exercise and taking care of your physical and mental wellbeing is the proper way to go about this
Cole cole says
Might be your thyroids, get that checked out.
Sandra says
Me too I have fibromyalgia and stay drained… I was drinking at least 2 a day.. I quit for a week only because they didn’t have any at the store I buy from and had no withdrawals like some say.. they seem to help me get through the day easier…
Georgia says
How many cans a day were you drinking? I have chronic fatigue syndrome & low blood pressure & drink 2 cans a day to help me with energy.
Lynda McCallum says
I used to drink 10/12 per day cut it down to 2 took a while as the withdrawals were terrible had them for 3 weeks. I was diagnosed with angina and have heart medication & spray. I was drinking Emerge 3 pack of 4. Since I’ve cut it down I have lost 1stone 9lb. They are really not good for you in any amount, I’m hoping soon to take none.
Catherine says
A better solution for low blood pressure is increasing fluids. Pedialyte actually will help your body hold Onto fluids, also add a little salt to you diet. My pressure would drop to 40/26. I have a pacemaker, but still have low blood pressure. These drinks are dangerous. Young kids with heart problems and seizures, they should be banned.
Jan says
So sad & I am sorry the drinks didn’t come with a strong warning.
Rae says
Agree w jmt
Justin says
I love people like you. Clearly have absolutely no idea what you’re talking about. But keep on babbling on the Internet with nonsense.
K says
Camada has an amazing health care system.
Deedra says
I understand wanting to ban high concentration of caffeine, but if you ban ALL caffeine, you are also banning most teas and coffees as well. What else has caffeine? Chocolate does!
Don’t bam my chocolate, please!
Mt says
Pepsi cocacola dr pepper all have caffeine too
Cathy Ward says
I agree!!
Debra says
Where is your spell check . I could barely raje your message seriously, fir the myriad of errors
Debra says
Wow, typos are easy, where is my spell check, barely take…and for..were what was trying to say. Maybe both our fingers are too big. Point taken
Tammikins says
Instant Karma od’d what it was. A learning experience if you will… It’s happened to me to. I’m so Not judging just commenting in understanding…
Crys Marie says
Lmao. That’s funny. I’ve had supraventricular tachycardia and anxiety attacks where my heart easily sustains a rhythm over 150 bpm. Even once 205 bpm for three hours. It’s scary and unsettling yes. I often get nauseous and get stuck in a cycle of panic when they happen. I have been told by cardiologists that the heart can sustain high heart rates for some time. So do your best to stimulate your vague nerve (bear down like you are constipated or pushing out a child) and breathing exercises. If its anxiety I can usually get it under control within a few minutes. If its SVT which you cant normally control wait an hour then head to the ER and ask for a shot of adenosine which will knock the heart back to a normal rhythm. It may take a few doses and can cause anxiety because it literally stops your heart for a few seconds which is very unsettling. If you’ve ever had a skipping heart beat it’s like that but more pronounced.
You can also be cardioverter if adenosine doesnt work. This is a bit more painful than the adenosine but same concept. You can also be given some Ativan or other anti anxiety medication to help relieve any anxiety and an antiarrythmic medication like propranolol or metoprolol.
Too much caffeine can be cardio toxic. Keep your consumption under 300 mg a day for the best results.
Carolyn says
An ablation could help.
Lisa E OConnellGott says
Marie, propranolol is just blood pressure medication. And I don’t know where you are from, but in the US you can’t go into the hospital and ask or tell them to give you any medication. They would look at you like your a drug addict.
Tracy says
Debra, you could use spellcheck yourself. J/S 🤦♀️
donna says
Stop being such a perfectionist it was typed in perfect typonese. you ought to see what autocorrect does to my text’s
Linda says
And yours has no mistakes? lol
Denise Fletcher says
Hmmm. “Raje” came up in your spell check though? LOL
Lynda McCallum says
I used to drink 10/12 per day cut it down to 2 took a while as the withdrawals were terrible had them for 3 weeks. I was diagnosed with angina and have heart medication & spray. I was drinking Emerge 3 pack of 4. Since I’ve cut it down I have lost 1stone 9lb. They are really not good for you in any amount, I’m hoping soon to take none.
Erin says
Lol. Wow. Did you read yours?
John says
nah u just trippin
Chinnaill says
I’m so sorry.
A. Lynn K says
I’m sorry he had to go through that but it sounds like he had never had one before. Maybe he was doing some sort of exercise or run and decided to drink two Red Bull for more energy. I have been drinking 2-4 20oz Red Bull a day for years. Never had an issue like that. I have two autoimmune diseases where chronic fatigue is a major symptom. If it weren’t for energy drinks, I would never get out of bed.
Robert says
Sorry about your son and underline health conditions. This isn’t North Korea and it’s not fair for everyone else not to enjoy different things especially in modification.
holly says
I’m happy to read Suzanne that your son is still alive and I don’t blame you for wanting to ban the energy drinks..
Stu says
Her story is completely made up. It doesn’t work like that.
Keith says
Banning it because you had a bad experience? I appreciate your story and I’m glad your son is ok but liberals here and in Canada always resort to taking away everyone’s choices so that we love the way tyou want to live. That’s not the answer. Education and moderation is.
Keith says
*live
Meagan Walker says
After drinking “2”? Like two of them? Ma’am, your son may have been allergic or had something that he reacted to in it, but drinking just 2 isnt going to require an extensive open heart surgery unless your son already had something up with his heart.
Trust me. I used to drink them daily as a teenager.
Joseph Farnsworth says
Yeah, SUZANNE… Not buying it. “Heart was about to explode”?… “14 hour open heart surgery”? LOL.. Either you, like Trump, speak only in extreme hyperbole, or you’re just a troll, trying to get your jollies. If your heart is in tachycardia, you will be given drugs to slow the beat. If your heart has stopped, you would be given the paddles. Hearts don’t “explode” because they beat too fast, they stop. Open heart surgery is for bypass, not “fixing an about to explode heart”.
CJ says
2 8.4 oz cans of Red Bull would be less caffeine (about 155 mg) than a Venti iced latte from Starbucks (about 180-200MG) which millions of people drink every day… I’m terribly sorry about your son, but banning a drink for everyone because of an obvious caffeine sensitivity or underlying undiagnosed preexisting condition makes no sense.
Clarice Hall says
I really find this a bit of a stretch to place this heart problem on Red Bulls ! You can consume to much of anything if you have the desire to harm yourself.
I cannot drink coffee , way to strong for me, makes my heart jump around, but a 6 or 8 oz can of sugar free Red Bull does not bother me a bit. It replenished my B12 , depleted by my diabetes medicine Metformin, it is loaded with B6 vitamins and Niacin , both very good for you and in fact your body functions require these vitamins and minerals. 1 can of 8 oz Red Bull has equivalent of 1 cup of coffee ( caffeine)
Mike says
Lol keep trying to make yourself feel
Better about drinking Red Bull . I work in cardiology I’ve seen some pretty chaotic heart rhythms due to these drinks.
Jim Halpert says
I’ll take things that didn’t happen for 500 Alex
Gil Yglesias says
Perhaps it’s better to train children that just because something isn’t banned doesn’t necessarily mean it cannot cause harm.
Nurse says
Giving him some valium wasn’t an option? Seriously???
Jenny says
Wow! At such a young age too! I agree they should be banned!
Mr. C.C. says
Wait, your son is still alive yet you said no hospital could help him. They obviously did if he is still alive. Hopefully he learned his lesson.
Adam says
So my 20 double shots of espresso to drive truck everyday is okay
Adam says
So 5 milligrams of Ritalin is equal to almost 5000 of caffeine and is give to hyperkids
Danyul Lowe says
If you’re a f***** idiot then anything can kill you. Go eat 20 chocolate bars a day and get diabetes, go and ride a tricycle on the free way and you’ll die, drink 6 cans a day of something that is only recommended for one dose a day and you’ll end up having a heart attack. Don’t blame the product jus because you’re too stupid to read labels
Disco Harvey says
Let’s file this under the “Stuff that never happened” tag.
Krystal Zaporzan says
Yup. My 33 year old husband was just sent to the hospital via ambulance. The doctor figures it was due to energy drinks. A scary evening for sure.
Bobby says
That’s what happens when you’re a lightweight
Virginia Dodswort says
I totally agree with you I have arrhythmia problems, and cannot tolerate any caffeine if anyone gave me one of these without me knowing, it would finish me off.
Arlene says
I agree. These drinks are going to kill people. Especially our teens and younger people. People don’t realize the dangers of over dosing on caffeine.
D says
Advocating is pointless advocate banning alcohol or smokes or whatever , we can’t allow government to say what we can and can’t drink. It starts with energy drinks and blows up into real liberties being taken . Sounds like crap I drink 4 8 oz Red Bull’s a day and have for years spaced out throughout the day
Tawnee says
Same thing happened to me after drinking Monsters for a good year, not every day but when I did drink them I had 2 and sometimes 3 in a 24 hr period. My meds cost $900 a month which regulates my heart rate so it doesn’t beat out of my chest. People dont listen but this one product that should not b sold.. th ER said they have so many come in with heart issues due to these drinks
Tawnee says
Oh and ive never had high blood pressure or heart conditions. Once talked to a man that bottled energy drinks n he said they should not be on the market, and he knows what goes into them. People scoff n make fun but this is real n serious.
Sidlo says
I would support your position. I personally, have never had an energy drink because caffeine drives me off the chart with hyperactivity; however, I have been known to have no more than two cups of coffee BEFORE noon or I won’t sleep. ‘I WONT SLEEP’ should be my first sign it is not good.
I have discouraged my children and pray they listen, I do not think these energy drinks should be legal, either. I could not agree more.
Anita says
I completely understand what that mom was going through. I was a 34 year old mother who worked a full time job and a part time serving job so to make it through I would drink a red bull to get through. I ended up starting to notice some qekaness in my arms and legs and my vision was starting to darken after many tests it came back that I had a heart condition where my heart rate would spike uncontrollably and cause me to black out. I was sent in for surgery to have an ICD placed in and now will forever have this.
These drinks are dangerous and I wish I would have realized how dangerous before my life was forever altered.
Laurie says
Wow-just one Red Bull-once a day? And for how long were you drinking them?
Gary Kilmer says
I think common sense tells a person that the need for 5 or 6 energy drinks a day before age 32 says she likely had cardio issues already.
Regina A McGlashen says
Gary,,what are you saying? That having a heart condition will cause a person to crave energy drinks?So people who drink that much energy drinks have heart conditions and the drinks are needed to satisfy some need they have? PPPFFFTTT! that is nonsense!
Patrick says
I’m only 30 and I got a pacemaker from drinking energy drinks. Mainly drank monster and venom drinks and now my life has changed completely.
Chinnaill says
Wow!
BossHoss says
Regina, he was stating that for her energy level to be so low to need that many energy drinks implies that she had a preexisting heart condition that caused her to have low energy. Like he stated, common sense. I guess common sense is not that common anymore.
Ti No says
Actually… she could have started drinking them to help during the day…but they may have had an impact on her ability to sleep at night…which would have made her more tired in the morning and throughout the day…and thus starting a vicious cycle… it very well could have had nothing to do with a pre-existing condition…. so what was that about “common sense” again?…
April Chittum says
No, he’s saying that anyone under the age of 32 should have plenty of energy and should’t even need to drink energy drinks, so if they need something to help with their energy levels then they probably already had a heart condition before all the issues from drinking energy drinks even started.
Kim Cole says
Not necessarily because it could have been her thyroid.
Jeanie says
You get addicted to them. I know because I’m addicted to them like I am cigarettes. I truly think there is something else in them that’s addicting. I started off one every now an then because my husband would buy them an was like taste this an I would fuss cause they were so expensive but when I tasted it I liked the sour taste somehow every now an then turned into 3 big ones a day now for 6 Years. I want to stop! Who thought you could get addicted to a drink. It doesn’t speed my heart that I feel Doesn’t give me energy I’m just addicted. I sip on them threw the day. I do t guzzle them.
Crystal says
I have a pre existing heart condition. I started drinking energy drinks cause coffee never helped but i found red bull doesnt either i just like the taste and crave them. I will get headaches from not having the caffeine if i stop all together. Weve been a year or two now and at one point my husband and i had 4+ each a day. Ive asked for us to slow down ive had some terrible medical issues this past year, chronic edema etc and hes now having signs of HBP even blacked out at work after chest pains but he was at upwards of 6 or more a day for manual labor job. Since then ive wheened down to 2 or 3 a day max and i dont guzzle i sip. Energy drinks also have excessive amounts of salt added which i hadnt known, i feel this has impacted my situation. Ive been asked by docs to slow down or stop. Also if you are on medications it will alter your body functuons over time. Some meds are “downers” and energy drinks are “uppers” thats why many bars here have stopped selling them so they arent combined with alcohol. So although i believe theyve made a major impact on my health (including less energy now than before i was drinking so many) i think that if taken in moderation then youre fine. Its for people who out of nowhere start pounding multiple a day have immediate issues. Otherwise no different then a person whose deinking coffee all day long. They say each energy drink depending on brand is equiv to 2 cups of coffee. Read the dietary info on what youre drinking itll help give you an idea. But im not for banning them. I will add that we upped our amounts due to constant sales so altho still gets expensive for two people it went from 3.50 each for 12oz to 2 for 5.00 or buy 2 get 1 free. Made it easier to stock up. Smh. Good luck everyone.
Andy says
I was the same way when I was in high school. One in the morning, one before work, and one on break. Now I limit myself to 1 a day and I’ve started to feel much better overall. Try just cutting back to 2 a day, then eventually one. Your body will thank you by giving you natural energy anyways
Frances says
Yes my daughter in law just got out of Hospital because of entergy drinks.
She had a heart attack at very young age, a few days ago.
Carmen M Luczak says
how old? Curious!
Pam says
Yes people really seem to abuse those energy drinks 5 in one day!!! Or better yet let’s drink 2 in a row and see what happens.
Olli C. Wolf says
2 on a day still isn’t bad for most people. 2 in a row also isn’t too bad either unless someone has anxiety or some such. The caffiene contents of most/all mainstream energy drinks was even cut in half back in 2013. 1 energy drink like Moster now only has about 125mg. Regular coffee at 6-8 oz contains about 75. Daily intake for caffiene safely is said to be 400 mg. I believe the max before possible heart attack and death for caffiene only is somewhere between 1000 and 1500 mg, but it will be pure hell for sure if someone manages to live through going that high. There is included ginseng in these drinks though and a couple of other positive thing that may effect caffiene enough to be more easily abused?. When these drinks aren’t abused though, the only real issue is the corn syrip stuff. Everything else is actually along the lines of healthy and healing. Some of these drinks even have minimal to no sugar and compared to how much sugar most people get in their diets, this is honestly nothing in energy drinks. Red Bull also has different sizes, but I believe their ingredients and caffiene amounts more equal coffee than an energy drink and I don’t think they add ginseng to their drinks either.
Stephanie says
Then why are they banned almost worldwide? If they are no Big Deal…
Mat B says
Probably the same reason marijuana is banned. Cause the government cant figure out how to get rich off legalizing it. Marijuana has a vast amount of great medical benefits up to and including treatment for cancer.
Phanes says
They can’t figure out how to legalize it and keep their cushy political careers intact, as well as get rich off of it. But they’re figuring it out. Tax the snot out of it, position yourself to benefit from the business side, then legalize it and get the government more money, and get yourself even more money than that. They’re just trying to get their business ducks in a row before freeing the states to legalize. I think (and hope) that eventually, the federal government will just override all state laws banning cannabis. Of course, knowing my luck, it won’t happen until I’m about to croak.
Keith Fale says
It is legal everywhere in Canada
Sherry says
I too am suffering from chronic fatigue and can’t snap out of it. I chose NOT to take these drinks as I already have an irregular heart beat and didn’t want to cause myself any more grief. I don’t understand why others would want to jeopardize their lives over something that is not safe. But thank you for your stories and I hope that you will all get better over time.
Rachael says
Have you got your Iron levels tested. I suffered this for years then found out I have iron overload. Nearly everything these days is fortified with iron. Anyway just a thought
Royce says
A drug is a drug. Just say no!!
Bruce Hinterleitner says
My son died in his sleep at age 26 from heart arrest likely attributed to Energy drink consumption.
Myendeavor says
Very sorry for your loss, so sad and senseless. I have two young Sons and will make sure to educate them.
Carmen M Luczak says
Mr. Hinterleitner: I am sorry for your loss!
Carol says
I am so sorry for your loss. My daughter’s best friend also died from heart failure attributed to energy drinks at 23 years of age. She was also a new mom. So sad. I dont understand why these drinks are even allowed.
Sarah says
I drink one every day sometimes 2 as I dont drink tea or coffee mostly in the morning not at night
Cheryl says
You really should try to taper down and eventually stop .My son was just in the ER with AFib and he is only 38.
Dr. Said it was from energy drinks.
Jack walsh says
I drink a couple a month. I like the taste and if I set it down it doesn’t go flat in ten minutes.
GreenEyedGuide says
Such a sad story. Energy drinks can be dangerous, certainly if consumed in excess but also if consumed at all for those people who are sensitive to caffeine or who are very young. I’m a biochemist and food scientist who’s been studying energy drinks for many, many years. Stories like this one, as well as some of the anecdotes left in the comments, are exactly why I wrote a book to summarize my research, “Are You a Monster or a Rock Star: A Guide to Energy Drinks – How They Work, Why They Work, How to Use Them Safely.” My goal with this book has always been to help people understand what these ingredients are, what they do, and how much is a safe amount. In countries like Canada, there’s a limit to how many milligrams of caffeine can be in a caffeinated beverage. This helps prevent the sale of some of the highly caffeinated drinks sold in the US, but this caffeine-cap still doesn’t prevent someone from having 5-6 cans of an energy drink. In fact, this is why many energy drinks, Red Bull, Monster, and others, have put “Limit 2 Cans Per Day” on their label. I personally believe energy drinks are not for everyone but that they can be safe when consumed in moderation.
Olli C. Wolf says
Absolutely. There’s nothing truly bad about them really for most people. The caffiene amounts in smaller 16oz cans went down by half in the U.S. in 2013. I personally had no problems with 1 or 2 a day even when things were higher, but that’s me. I was always taught too much caffeine can be bad. People who have so many in one day are just begging for trouble.
donna says
I do not see a larger concern mentioned here, being dehydration. You can actually die from dehydration. It is recommended that if you drink er drink equal amounts of water.
Bobby C says
This is THE BEST REPLY HERE !!!! Thank You for this information…..Lesson Learned….Moderation for sure.
Kim Saunders says
I have not seen a single person mention Taurine. I have always heard that Taurine is the real energy spurt you get and caffeine is secondary. A friend told me that Taurine in to large doses causes nerve damage but I have not heard anyone else say that. I’m from the USA and only have one when having guests. about one or 2 a month
Nikki says
I’m 37 and I drank at least one Red Bull a day and even when I was pregnant one a day the Dr saidnir was okay but after having my second kid I a yr after I got into Pluto drugs then on saboxen and I was on Adderall also and because of the Red Bull I started wanting more Adderall and I took exsedren which had caddies in it . But when I got into meth the mix of the Red Bull with everything over did it for my heart now I am clean and I have tecacardia and hypertension !! And the Red Bull was what pushed everything the heart dr said . I had no clue what I was doing to my self and now I still have rythem issues and have to see heart specialists I swear I want to go after Red Bull !!! They don’t warn people of how bad it really can be and how addicting energy drinks really are . It was harder to stop energy drinks then it was to kick drugs I thought I was dying. When I stop Red Bull !! I wish I could turn back time and NOT try one !! I haven’t had a Red Bull in a yr now !! Thank god !!! I can’t drink even soda with out my heart racing it’s hard living this way it was a hard lesson learned . My kids paid for my bad choices !
Olli C. Wolf says
You’re overlooking the real problem and placing blame elsewhere…. Yes, the energy drink might have added that extra kick to all the drugs, but the fact is you were taking all the drugs, including ones that already are stimulants. You can’t place blame on an energy drink when you were already sending your own heart in to so much overtime. Shoulda been happy with just the drugs. I understand people use them for energy, but don’t blame something else when you’re just piling the heart attack on with one thing after annother.
Mel says
I feel you on the difficulty of stopping energy drinks, redbull in particular. I think that ones the worst. I had the worst migraines of my life for days when I stopped drinking that, and even til now if someone across a large room opens a can, I can smell it and I want it.
Jonathan says
The cans say right one them, “Limit 3/day.” If you are drinking that much soda you’ll think twice about it. So why wouldn’t otherwise healthy people think twice about that many energy drinks. And it’s not an addiction, they use the word as an excuse. Let’s be honest, it is stupidity to drink that much, no matter who you are.
By says
I’m fine no health issues with me I’m atticed to them no health issues no heart issues I always eat and walk I drink two 550mls a can a day more then four years now never get diebetties I’m actually in good health I think U need to monitor it and how much U eat with them
Stephanie says
Come back in a few years… it’s only a matter of time. Maybe you had a healthy heart to begin with… that will change… read the article again…
Beetle says
No. Let’s see how this plays out…
Leeann says
I myself only being 30 years old went into cardiac arrest one day, I was dead for almost 10 min. After being on life support for a day I came back. I now where a heart defibulater/pace maker all caused from drinking to many energy drinks.
Hank says
I’ve drunk a minimum of 3 energy drink every day for 12 years now and I’m fine. I check my vitals daily while drinking one and no issues. It’s likely the people who are having problems already have a pre-existing heart issue and people want attention.
Elena says
Question if it is pre-existing heart condition and they never drank a energy drink and instead of having a pacemaker at 26 they get it at 56, is this due to not ever having a energy drink or is this due to pre-existing? Reverse it if they had a pre-existing heart condition and drank a couple of energy drinks and went into cardiac arrest and hat would be the problem the pre-condition or the drink that made it worsen to the extent of a pace maker or the early stages of a heart condition? I can drink energy drinks and nothing same as coffee but my mom can not it hurts her heart but if she did not know drinking a energy sink could hurt her and she did well it would be the drink that sped the heart up the weak condition of her heart would be why so little was needed to allow this reaction. Correct?
Katherine Saunders says
I’ve had a pacemaker since 6 because of a congential condition. It’s not the worst thing that can happen. On the other hand, having cardiac issues from drinking energy drinks is a problem.
J. Nusz says
I’m 72 and taking care of 3 grandchildren for the summer months. If I tire, I go lie down for half an hour, I don’t drink coffee soda pop, or red bull for more energy.
Jordan Emberson says
Im 21 and have been drinking 5-8 cans a day for about 7 years now and I’m perfectly healthy, even the doctor said so.
Sylvie Desroches says
lol ok
Victor Farago says
get an ultrasound on your liver bet you have NAFLD!
aj says
Not for long buddy. At 21 your organs are basically brand new and rapidly healing. You’d be dead at 30 if you weren’t disabled from it like myself. Stop now.
sadmom says
my son WAS thirty with a “energy drink” habit. Always said he had to stop….
after a week in an induced coma, he indeed never had another. Passed away a week after he was admitted.
Two very young children now look to the sky to talk to dad.
Not healthy, please stop.
Samantha says
Holy cow! 5-8 cans daily? I try to limit my caffeine intake to 500-600mg daily. How many mgs are you getting in those drinks????
Brandon says
I’ve been an advit energy drink user since highschool and used to drink on occasion until I got narcolepsy from my time in the Army. Now I usually have to drink two 12oz red bull in top of the medication they give me for narcolepsy just to function. I was diagnosed with a heart condition right after highschool and see a cardiologist every other year. They tell me it’s fine that I drink energy drinks because I only drink two a day and other than that I only drink water mainly. It’s common sense that you cannot drink 5 to 6 cans of energy drinks without expecting problems! You are not supposed to drink over 400mg of caffeine in a day. Nothing in life is healthy if you abuse it. Many of these people having issues where reckless. Cannot blame the product when people are reckless.
Terrence says
Moderation, folks.
ann says
my partner was on energy drinks the monster ones for 12 yrs ..he put on weight ..made him depressed when he couldnt have one ..erratic heart beat ..trouble sleeping ..and finally he gave em a miss as he now type 2 diabetic ..its taken 4 yrs to get his body sorted after these drinks ..he was working two jobs at the time i didnt realise he was on 3 aday ..wouldnt recomend to any age fit and healthy doesnt matter
Unknown says
Do most of you realize it’s the caffeine in the drink that causes this? You say ban energy drinks but then you would have to ban all caffeine to make it fair so you would need to ban coffee, sodas, etc.
Stephanie says
Go look at the ingredients… then look them up on the web and see which ones are banned… it is not caffeine…
Vanessa says
I was reading somewhere that it’s the combination of high amount of caffeine and high amount of sugar that puts the heart under much physical stress. Too much Mountain Dew or other sugary caffeinated drink for instance, can have similar effects.
Brenton says
I used to drink up to 12 in a day. Never had any problems. Usually drank 2 back to back at least 4 times a day all the way up to 6 times. The only issue I had was stomach problems and I attribute that to spicy foods. I also used to eat jalapeños with every meal of the day. Know your body. If something makes you feel different maybe you shouldn’t do it anymore.
Paul says
I think he is saying that if the person is tired all the time , it could be that their heart is not functioning properly already. That will make you very tired. So people then drink coffee or energy drinks to pop them up. By doing so, it triggers the heart to function abnormally. So the drink didnt cause the problem but it made the symptoms much worse. Each case is different and unique to the patient.
Joede says
If y’all look, the countries that produce these drinks have been band. There are a lot of European countries that have ban these drink because of the danger of them.
Kara Hamb says
As a nurse I saw a young college student lose his life after drinking these drinks to stay up to study for finals. The cardiologists tried everything they could but only a transplant could have saved him. That was around 12 years ago. I have never let my own children drink them and always advise people not to. I hope that all pediatricians explain the dangers to families and teens so parents don’t have to go through what that family did. Thank you for making people more aware.
Susie says
Why has no one heard of water???
We don’t ban sugar, just because so many diabetics abuse it.
We can have sugar if we exercise.
We can have energy drinks if we drink water.
We can have coffee if we drink water.
Abuse is abuse. I haven’t seen 1 energy drink issue that didn’t involve combining stimulants, alcohol, or severe dehydration. Using nicotine, speed, adderall, cocaine, espresso, vaping, is either severe stupidity or a suicidal tendancy.
Travis says
I drink around 6 per day. They don’t what soever give me any extra energy at all, I just like the taste. I think they will bankrupt me before they have a chance to kill me.
Crystal says
Lol at Travis. I couldnt agree more. My wallet is what seems to hurt the most over time. I have at times laughed saying we should have a discount card or own stock in the company. I dont blame the drinks, my choice, i believe causes other issues BUT know your body and drink in moderation.
TydenWolf says
I drink 1,2,3 a day no problems so I guess it depends on the person. The people that have issues most likely had been other underlying problems and people look for the easiest way out even Drs. Don’t blame the drink if you were doing drugs that kicked the crap out of you and you were drinking them too.
Amanda says
How u know they lies were u there tell me about it please
Danielle says
I am 41 and I drink Monster on a regular basis. I use to drink 5 or 6 a day but now down to 1-3 a day. I’m good I dont feel my heart racing out my chest. I have had physicals and all came bk normal. I cant or won’t say other people haven’t had issues with energy drinks because we all know everyone is different. All I know is I am trying to cut down because of all the stories I read out there. I want to be around for my grandbabies.
Claude says
I was drinking between 3-6 a day. As a single father of two very young girls and being on active duty. I needed energy.
Soooo the bad news. I’ve had two minor heart attacks and my age is 32. Sleepless nights, fluttering heartbeats. Enough is enough.
Please drink water instead and exercise.
Ashlea Burdette says
My husband was drinking 6/10 Red Bull’s a day he woke up @4:30am 5:00am left the house for work @7am and didn’t get back home until 5:30 6:00 pm so he definitely needed extra energy but he had a massive stroke with three blood clots on his brain and was in ICU for a week due to yup you guessed it Red Bull’s and he was a smoker but that’s what the Drs said caused it was Red Bull’s he’s only 49 years old and that’s awful young for a stroke
Jason byers says
Sounds like there were some underlying issues. Considering theres just as much caffeine in a coffee as there is a red bull.
James hatch says
This would be like me blaming my first pacemaker at 25 years old because I drink Pepsi
Wilbur says
If you abuse it you lose it, I drink energy drinks every day, two or sometimes three. If you educate yourself and know what your limits are, ffs, don’t blame the drink, if it bothers you, don’t drink. Your teens shouldn’t be drinking this, if they are than it’s your fault for letting them. Btw, I am 59 , like I said, don’t abuse it.
Tait says
Agree 100%
Terri Lynch says
Thank you for sharing these stories and testimonies. Very, very helpful !
Danny Gibson says
Please read the warning labels on the cans before trying to blame anyone else. it was his/hers own fault you shouldn’t be consuming 400mg of caffeine anyway
Lisa says
I think they meant, heart conditions make you tired. If you need that many energy drinks..its because you have no energy..right? That is a symptom of a heart condition.
Jason says
I’m very good shape after purpose up in the back. A rested heartbeat for me is under 60. I drink energy drinks maybe one a day or every other day but it’s an all natural caffeine. I went to school with a guy who had a massive heart attack at the age of 30. But he was drinkin 9 monster energy drinks a day.
Jerry Jaramillo says
Does that include rockstars. Sugar free and carb free?
Tait says
Yes
Its the caffeine thqts ment to be the problem
I drink 2/4 vs daily n 2/4 coffees ontop of that
Touch wood im fine
Duane says
Im not sure I believe these claims. Ive used energy pills 40 years and Im 53 .Dont drink the energy drinks because they never worked for me but I used ephedra, caffien pills, gensing, Ashwahganda , Macha and ither energy suppliments cycling them for ladt 40 years. I was a meth user for years which I blame for no energy if I dont take something . If energgy drinks caused it Id be dead .I believe its gentic and blamed on energy drinks .She prolly had a problem already.Just my oppinion
Tait says
Yup took no doze for years
Double the caffeine in those compared to redbull
Daz says
She said energy drinks not caffeine.
Tait says
Energy drinks activate ingredient is caffeine
Sarah says
I’m sorry to hear of this happening to anyone, but there’s a warning on them for a reason. Theres a reason they don’t recommend more than one can in a day. This woman consumed five to six cans a day, despite the warnings. I don’t intend to discredit someone else’s struggle, but she disregarded the health and safety recommendations, and now she has to deal with the consequences. This is true of any supplemental product including vitamins. Read the label. Follow the directions.
Tait says
Im so confused about the kid that near died
But the hospital couldnt save him
Well question is who did save him
Is he nearly dead or dead
Sorry to seem blunt but doesnt make sense
N 2 cqns did this
Hmmmmmmmm
Lots missing from both stories
Maurice says
I drink several red bulls a week with vodka and have been doing so for years..no issues..seems like folks are messing with something else to cause these issues
Andrew Valero says
27, when I was fitted with a Pacemaker, 29 now.
I averaged 36bpm when I went into Cardiac ICU.
Next day surgery. Scary to know i had no idea there was anything wrong with me. All I did was went to work. Still don’t know what caused it. I just cried for my mom because I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath.
I hope this mother lives a good life. My prayers go to you and your children.
Same thing different people.
Carol says
Please check the side of the container! It should have a warning written on it. Where I live, these drinks are not available to people under age 18. However, the amount of caffeine in them is dangerous for anyone. Same holds true for all the herbal and natural remedies available everywhere. Just because you can but something, doesn’t mean you should! Check with your doctor or pharmacist before consuming or putting anything on your body.
Robert says
Yet again Caffeine takes the blame for what Sugar and High Fructose Corn Syrup is doing….
Caffeine is not the problem (or else coffee drinkers would know)… the problem is we have tripled the sugar in these drinks, and people are drinking them like they are shotgunning beer…
S says
Uhhh…not sure what brand of energy drink this patient was drinking, but at about 80mg of caffeine in a representative can of Red Bull (as reported by one website) it is hardly the main ingredient. Compare that to around 98mg of caffeine in an average cup of coffee.
It might be prudent to take a look at the quantity of sugar in that same can at ~40g. That’s per can!! 6 cans a day = 300g of sugar per day, just from daily energy drink consumption. How much more sugar was consumed on a daily basis in the form of refined carbohydrates, grains, starches, high fructose fruits and other sources?!
This article is, unfortunately, an example of the real culprit hiding in plain sight…once again.
S says
Thats 240g of sugar for the less math challenged
John says
You can’t ban everything that are bad for some Just ban the additive behavior.
Raymond Rader says
I drink a pot or more of coffee and about two energy drinks a day for over 28 years Iam now 63 and healther then a dog. With no health problems at all. Just dependes on your body and your living habits. Any alcohol is the very worst thing for your body it affects every organ and cell. Main ingredent is etho alcohol with is eather with is why you get drunk and stupid.Over 28 years clean and sober here..
Mike says
You drinking 6 cans of energy drinks a day is your fault. It’s like popping 20 Tylenol a day. At some point it’s gonna kill or deter your health. In limited amounts there is nothing wrong with Energy Drinks. Stop blaming the companies and take some f’n responsibility.
Tammy Paquette Josey says
Well energy drinks have 160 grams a caffeine has anybody care to look what a 16 oz cup of coffee drip coffee has in caffeine tried 240 graph of caffeine not including your sugar and your creamer that sweet put into it or has anybody even looked at how many calories is in a 20 oz mountain dew that has 91 the two of those is more then one energy drink plus if you look at the carbs and sugars mountain dew that’s 77 grams of carbs and 77 one bottle which is equivalent to 154 grams of sugar and carbs where an energy drink only has 54 grams of sugars and carbs now you tell me what is better for you an energy drink it also has vitamins in it for coffee that’s 240 grams of caffeine in one 16 oz cup or two bottles of mountain dew so you’ll never hear them say that somebody had to have a pacemaker over a cup of coffee or mountain dew
Nmurph says
I just have to laugh and point something out…. So the original person who commented, there were tons of people who replied about her son almost dying and how it was bullshit. But then when someone talked about being a meth user and then blamed the energy drinks no one commented? Lmao!!!!!
Me says
Why can’t we all just stick to good old fashion Cocain
Andy says
Peter, I know you think you are okay. But to people that aren’t jacked up on a cocktail of stimulants your comment just sounds like the ramblings of a tweeked out coke addict lol. I really don’t mean offense, but someone should at least tell you that you sound kinda…..unhinged? The problem with energy drinks is that they not only contain a super high dosage of caffeine, but at least 6-7 other extracts that work synergistically together, causing your central nervous system to be abnormally stimulated. Many hearts cannot take that. And NO cardiovascular system can handle that stimulation indefinitely. I say this with 99% sincerity and concern. If you continue drinking that amount of energy drinks per day…. you will either end up dead or in the hospital with a cardiac event. Don’t let that be your wake up call. Just because it is legal does not mean it is safe. Im conservative when it comes to the ” banning” of things by the government. So we agree on that point. But there needs to be more education and at least regulation where limits are imposed on the contents of these ” beverages”. I will never put an energy drink in my body, Ive studied polypharmacy and pharmo-kinetics. I know that putting an energy drink in my body could be more harmful than taking a small dosage of cocaine. Lastly, these things are addictive and they are designed that way. Judging by your comment you seem very defensive of your consumption of these, which indicates to me that your afraid of losing your sunshine bottles. An addict can’t bull**** another addict lol. Ive been victorious over heroin addiction( Im very proud of that) and energy drinks scare the crap out of me haha. That says something doesnt it? Take my unsolicited advice, find a different vice. Once again, I mean no offense! Just telling you the truth.I hope you stop the bombardment of your CNS with these stimulants. God Bless 🙏 Everyone. Stay safe.
Mariann Gerwig says
Will it every be possible to read posts to an article without the posts turning into personal attacks. Sharing similar experiences, professional information and other constructive comments are fine. Why some people resort to commenting on the grammar and punctuation is uncalled for, I just go right past those. But the way posts go totally off topic and spread hate and bad feelings is wrong. Andy’s post was a perfect example of balance of concern and warning, with the exception (though understandable) of the first sentence.
Lady says
It’s not BS. Energy drinks can cause someone with an underlying untreated condition to go into cardiac arrest, have a deadly murmur or sudden death. I have an irregular heartbeat and I take medication to regulate it, otherwise I prob wouldn’t even drink coffee. But more than one energy drink is very dangerous.
Bryan says
I am 38 years old, and a daily smoker, and formerly at younger years was addicted to nose candy. I use to drink monster brand beverages, maybe 2 or 3 a day depending on my work load that day. Then i switched to a different brand of energy drinks from the vpx company, redline extreme, which are far far more potent than a 3 times the size normal can of monster. I felt shttier from the monster, far weaker mix and tripple the serving size as the redline. The redlines are smaller, but stronger. I have had ekg’s done during this time, and other heart health tests of sorts and have no irregular wear or tear on my heart. These drink, CAN or HAVE A CHANCE of danger, yes, but its all on an individual case basis. Ao to sit and say because one, two, or a few have had bad or potentially deadly results, and they should be banned is unfair. What alot of you people dont realize is that kids lie, daily, and this child that was reference to above with the heart surgery, he was probably consuming them at an extreme amount and only said he had only tried it twice to save his own ass from being in trouble. A few years back they had kids dropping like flies because schools had monsters available to students, and these kids were consuming close to 10-14 a day at school. So yeah in extreme usage, like anything else in life, things do go wrong. Or when people with underlying conditions use these, its their own decision to do so knowing the issues they have. These companies arent holding guns to people’s heads. It all falls under personal reaponsibility and accountability. Use at own risk. So instead of banning something and bankrupting a company and creating job loss, inform people of the risks involved, hold the individual accountable for actions. We dont punish the broad numbers of people for the actions of the few or select.
Karen says
I drink energy drinks on the daily.
Like 2 a day maybe three if needed
I get zero sugar zero calories for the ones I drink
If I didn’t drink them I am sure I couldn’t get thro a normal day at work
I am always busy, and yes I fall asleep at night
I’ve notice soda keeps me up way more due to soda has sugar and the energy drinks I drink have none
I believe they are good for you just be smart a d get zero sugar zero calories
You don’t need both when consuming caffeine
Tim says
They used to put energy drink in alcohol but some stupid kids drank some and died. So they ruined it for everyone. Now I have to mix my vodka and monster together myself. It is a great drink.