Consumption of energy drinks increases blood pressure and heart rate, and should therefore be avoided by people with hypertension or heart disease, according to results of a small prospective study.
These effects are probably seen because the beverages which are marketed to enhance cognitive function and stamina, usually contain caffeine, the amino acid taurine and sugars.
The researchers found that “Increases in blood pressure and heart rate of the magnitude observed in our study could be significant in persons with known cardiovascular disease,” and that “Young individuals with undiagnosed, premature cardiovascular disease could also be at risk”
This study was published in the April issue of The Annals of Pharmacotherapy.
