Taking daily measures to care for your heart health is crucial, and there are various ways to do so. You might choose to increase your physical activity, manage your stress levels, improve your sleep habits, or modify your diet to incorporate more heart-healthy foods.
These actions are valuable because there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to maintaining heart health. If you're taking these positive steps towards a healthier lifestyle, you may also want to steer clear of certain foods and drinks that can hinder your journey to a happy heart.
For instance, Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD at Balance One Supplements advises that energy drinks are among the worst beverages for your heart.
The Harmful Effects of Energy Drinks on Heart Health
According to Trista Best, MPH, RD, LD at Balance One Supplements, energy drinks rank at the top of the list of beverages that can negatively impact heart health. This is due to the high amount of caffeine they contain, sometimes up to 300 milligrams in one serving. While caffeine in moderation can be heart-healthy, excessive consumption can worsen heart palpitations and anxiety symptoms, including a racing heart.
Moreover, excess caffeine can lead to atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure, and even heart attack or stroke. Even a small increase in blood pressure caused by too much caffeine can have a detrimental effect on individuals with existing heart issues. Cleveland Clinic advises that although heart palpitations from caffeine are not usually life-threatening, they can be concerning. Thus, energy drinks are a beverage to avoid for maintaining optimal heart health.
An Additional Possible Consequence
Dehydration is another potential side effect of drinking too much caffeine from energy drinks. According to Best, these drinks can have a diuretic effect on the body, leading to increased urination. If people consume energy drinks instead of water, they may become dehydrated without realizing it.
Moreover, "the heart of a dehydrated individual must work harder due to less blood circulating through the body," warns Best. It is essential to stay hydrated to maintain healthy heart function.
The takeaway
For individuals with heart-related issues such as high blood pressure, it may be best to steer clear of energy drinks or limit caffeine consumption. Instead, if you're looking for an energy boost, you can consider alternative options with lower caffeine levels.