Scientists at the University of Adelaide, Australia, looked at the impact of consuming one 250-ml energy drink on platelet and endothelial function (heart attack risk is strongly associated with platelet and endothelial dysfunction).
Red Bull says the study is old and disputes the findings
The researchers noted an increase in platelet aggregation, and an impairment of endothelial function, among study participants one hour after they drank the energy drink. A significant increase in arterial blood pressure was also recorded but there was no significant change in heart rate.
The scientists said it remains uncertain which ingredients are responsible for their findings and that more research was needed.
A spokesperson for the British Heart Foundation agreed. “This research showed blood changes in young people, but we cannot say from the study that this would lead to any heart problems occurring. However the study does illustrate the urgent need for further research in this area.”
Many energy drinks contain multiple stimulants that are not identified, in addition to lots of sugar and caffeine (a diuretic). They can cause dehydration, especially if mixed with alcohol and now they have been linked to possible heart attack as well.
Most sensible people have known for a long time that energy drinks can be dangerous if consumed in quantities. Why does the FDA not enforce stricter standards for energy drinks and other so-called functional food?
For the most part, these foods are better described as dysfunctional. It’s time the FDA woke up and started protecting the consumer. Is this not why they were formed in the first place?
You can read the full article here: http://bit.ly/drPSu3
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