Could Energy Drink Consumption Increase CV Risk?

Consumption of energy drinks could be associated with serious cardiovascular events including spikes in blood pressure, according to a new trial.

Previous research has linked energy drink consumption to cardiovascular events, due in part to caffeine and other stimulants present within the drinks.
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To test the effects of these drinks on blood pressure and heart rate, researchers conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover pilot study of 25 healthy participants. Each participant was randomized between a 480 mL energy drink or placebo within 5 minutes, then, at a later date (within 2 weeks) consumed the other drink.  

The placebo drink was similar in taste, texture, and color but lacked caffeine and stimulants.

Before consuming each drink, researchers measured participants’ serum levels of caffeine, plasma glucose, and norepinephrine, as well as their blood pressure and heart rate, which were measured again 30 minutes after ingestion of the drink.

Overall, consuming 1 can of energy drink was associated with a 7-mm Hg spike in systolic blood pressure and a similar increase in diastolic pressure, as well as a 67% increase in norepinephrine levels. Those drinking a placebo also showed increases in blood pressure and norepinephrine levels, but the increases were significantly smaller than those seen with the energy drink.

—Michael Potts

Reference:

Svatikova A, Covassin N, Somers KR, et al. A randomized trial of cardiovascular responses to energy drink consumption in healthy adults. JAMA. 2015;314(19):2079-2082.