THE EFFECT OF FREQUENT CONSUMPTION OF ENERGY DRINKS ON BLOOD PRESSURE, HEART RATE AND BLOOD GLUCOSE IN HEALTHY ADULTS WORKING OUT IN THE GYMNASIUM

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effect of frequent consumption of energy drinks on blood pressure, heart rate and blood glucose in healthy adults working out in the gymnasium. Design and method: 200 healthy young adults, were divided into two groups: the first consumed at least three energy drinks at one-hour intervals, and the second drank the same amount of water. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure(DBP),heart rate (HR) and blood glucose (BG) were measured before consumption of energy drink (250 ml per can)/ water (250 ml) and before working out. After working out for 45 minutes (treadmill, cycling and elliptical cross trainer) 1 hr of rest was given to both groups. SBP, DBP, HR and blood glucose were then measured. All participants could report any health problems before and after consuming each portion of energy drink. All parameters were measured thrice weekly for 3 months. Results: Having consumed three portions of ED (150 to 180 mg of caffeine), the participants presented a significant increase in DBP (p = 0.033), by over 10.32%, no significant change in SBP (p = 0.715). HR increased in adults drinking 3 energy drinks (p = 0.040). Consumption of EDs caused a significant increase (p < 0.001) in BG, by 23.5 %, on average. Some participants reported of palpitations and disturbed sleep which increased after 2 and 3 energy drinks. Conclusions: Increased diastolic blood pressure, blood glucose, no significant change in systolic blood pressure occurred in healthy young people as compared to their controls drinking water.