Many people don’t realize how much caffeine and other stimulants are in energy drinks (Red Bull, etc). And the labels usually don’t help either. In fact, the labels often add to the confusion or misconceptions.
Guarana often appears on labels, but explain that it’s just another source of caffeine…like coffee beans, cola nuts, and tea or mate leaves. Guarana is usually not counted as caffeine on labels…so the real caffeine count is even higher.
Taurine is often added…supposedly to improve performance. But the amount in energy drinks has no proven benefit.
B vitamins are also added to supposedly increase energy. These vitamins are necessary for cellular energy metabolism…but there’s no proof that taking supplements boosts energy.
Caffeine amounts can be high…about 80 mg for Red Bull, 100 mg for 5-Hour Energy, and over 300 mg for some kinds of Rockstar.
Most healthy adults can safely consume up to 400 mg/day of caffeine, this amount equals about three 8 oz cups (237 mL) of brewed coffee per day. For children, keep it about 85 mg/day for 12 year-olds.
Do not combine energy drinks with stimulants (methylphenidate, pseudoephedrine, etc)…due to additive effects. Caffeine is also found in chocolate, and tea. Too much caffeine may lead to dehydration and dry mouth. Dry mouth signifies a reduction in salivary flow which typically buffers the acidic condition in the mouth. When the mouth becomes more acidic one is prone to dental decay.
