Higher Heart Contraction Rates Linked to Energy Drinks, Study Suggests

An ongoing study at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) has reported that energy drinks can significantly increase the rate at which the heart contracts in healthy, young adults. While these drinks have been a longtime favorite among individuals looking to quickly boost their energy, it's only recently that anyone has begun to pay attention to the potential side effects that the drinks could have on the heart. In fact, until the RSNA study there has been little to no concern for the potentially dangerous side effects that energy drinks could have on heart functioning.

An MD from the University of Bonn's cardiovascular imaging section who is part of the team that is studying the exact effects that energy drinks can have on heart functioning explains that the risks are particularly prevalent among adolescents and young adults. Some of the side effects experienced among energy drink consumers are:

• Heart palpitations
• Rapid heart rate
• Rise in blood pressure
• Seizure
• Sudden death

As noted by the doctor, caffeine levels in energy drinks can be up to three times higher than those of other caffeinated beverages such as soda and coffee. The team's study, which was conducted using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of male and female volunteers with an average age of 27.5, showed noticeably higher peak strain and peak systolic strain rates in the heart's left ventricle. This means that an individual's level of heart contraction increased after consuming an energy drink.

The long-term health risks of consuming energy drinks have not yet been identified – something the RSNA study will likely address later in its investigations. In the meantime, members of the study have advised children and all individuals with cardiac arrhythmias to consumer energy drinks with caution, especially when combined with alcohol.

At The Senators Firm, we can help you take legal action if your health was jeopardized by an energy drink. For additional information about how our firm can be of service to you, contact us at (800) 773-0849. Our lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.