You may turn to energy drinks to power through your day, especially if you’re a teen or young adult trying to get through late-night studying, work shifts, gym routines or even long gaming sessions.
Energy drinks have become a normal part of daily life for many people, since they’re marketed as a quick fix for low energy and focus.
But energy drinks can affect your heart more quickly than you may realize. Understanding what’s in them, how they impact your body and when to be cautious can help protect your heart health.
Why energy drinks are trending
Energy drinks are everywhere. You’ll see them in convenience stores and gyms and promoted on social media feeds. They often claim that they can improve performance, focus and endurance.
Teens and young adults may turn to energy drinks because of:
- Busy schedules and lack of sleep
- Social media and influencer marketing
- Gaming and fitness culture
- Easy access and large serving sizes
What’s actually in energy drinks
“Energy drinks are beverages that contain caffeine plus other additives,” said Talal Moukabary, MD, a cardiologist with Banner - University Medicine.
“They are marketed as ‘energy’ drinks because of the stimulant effect of caffeine on the brain. Some contain as much caffeine as two or three cups of coffee or even more, depending on the brand and serving size. The amount of caffeine can be much higher than people realize.”
Many people think more caffeine equals more energy, even though the body doesn’t respond that way.
Along with all that caffeine, energy drinks may contain a mix of ingredients designed to stimulate the nervous system, including:
- Added stimulants or stimulant-like ingredients, such as guarana, taurine or ginseng
- Sugar or artificial sweeteners
- Vitamins
These ingredients can stack on top of each other and increase the effects on the heart and nervous system more than caffeine alone.
How energy drinks affect the heart
“Energy drinks can stimulate the cardiovascular system,” Dr. Moukabary said. They can cause rapid changes, including:
- A faster heart rate
- A temporary rise in blood pressure
- A temporary increased strain on the heart muscle
- Changes in heart rhythm in some people
“These effects can be concerning, especially if energy drinks are consumed in large amounts or combined with other stimulants or medications,” Dr. Moukabary said.
Teens and young adults may be more sensitive to energy drinks because their bodies are still developing and because they are more likely to drink them quickly or in large amounts.
Warning signs to watch for
After drinking an energy drink, pay attention to symptoms such as:
- Racing or pounding heartbeat
- Chest discomfort or pressure
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Shortness of breath
- Shakiness or anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
“Stop drinking energy drinks and instead drink water to hydrate,” Dr. Moukabary said. If symptoms feel severe or don’t go away, it’s important to get medical care. “This is especially important if you faint or have chest pain or shortness of breath,” he said.
Who may be at higher risk
Some people are more likely to feel heart-related effects from energy drinks, including:
- Teens and adolescents
- People with heart conditions, heart disease, high blood pressure or irregular heart rhythms
- Those who drink energy drinks before intense exercise
- People who mix energy drinks with alcohol
- Anyone who consumes multiple energy drinks in a short period
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has reported that energy drinks should never be consumed by children or adolescents and should not be used for hydration before, during or after physical activity.
Even healthy people can feel the effects if they take in too much caffeine.
Healthier ways to boost energy
Instead of relying on high-caffeine drinks, try to:
- Get consistent, good-quality sleep
- Drink water throughout the day
- Eat balanced meals that include protein and complex carbs
- Take short movement or stretch breaks
- Get regular physical activity
- Choose lower-caffeine options like tea
- Use caffeine earlier in the day and in moderation
These habits support steadier energy without sudden spikes and crashes. “There is no substitute for good sleep, healthy food, water and exercise,” Dr. Moukabary said.
When to talk to a health care provider
You should talk with a provider if:
- You notice heart symptoms after having caffeine or energy drinks
- You depend on stimulants to get through the day
- You are a teen or young adult who regularly uses energy drinks
- You’re not sure what a safe caffeine amount is for you
- You’re following healthy habits and you still feel tired
A provider can help you understand how caffeine affects your heart and suggest safer ways to manage your energy and fatigue.
The bottom line
Energy drinks are popular, but they’re not harmless, especially for teenagers and young adults. These drinks can raise your heart rate and blood pressure quickly and may cause other symptoms.
Knowing the risks, watching for warning signs and choosing healthier energy strategies can help protect your heart health. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to a Banner Health provider who can help you make choices about caffeine that are safer for your heart.
