Houston, energy drinks usually used if someone is having hydrated during exercise. And it seems familiar in the community. But new research shows that many hidden health hazards of energy drinks.

“Energy drinks can contain a quarter cup of sugar and also contains more caffeine than a cup of coffee,” said John Higgins, from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston, as reported by FoxNews, Tuesday (11/16/2010).

Higgins explained that the caffeine content of energy drinks range from 70-200 mg per 453 grams. For comparison, a cup of coffee (226 grams) can contain 40-150 mg of caffeine, depending on how brewing. Because of the high levels of caffeine that makes people who drink energy drinks have always felt more excited.

“Even more than that, sometimes there is material that is not listed on the label, such as stimulants guarana, taurine amino acids, minerals and vitamins, and other ingredients that can interact with caffeine energy drink is usually mixed with alcohol.” said Higgins.

That should be a concern, obviously Higgins, the interaction between these materials can affect heart rate, blood pressure and even mental condition, especially when consumed in large quantities, especially for athletes.

Higgins and colleagues have reviewed the medical literature on energy drinks and material contained therein 1976-2010.From several studies, young adults who actively demonstrate that energy drinks can increase blood pressure and heart rate. It can even cause more serious effects such as heart attacks, seizures and death.

Research in mice showed that taurine can also make these rodents behave strangely, such as anxiety or self-mutilation.

“We’re not rats, but consumption of energy drinks has been shown to relate to high-risk behavior,” said Higgins. energy drinks are often promoted to support the performance of athletes.

But Higgins and colleagues noted that caffeine and some other material contained in it can really affect the body, causing dehydration and even for the short term.

“People suffering from hypertension should not drink energy drinks. In addition, people with certain health conditions such as heart disease should consult a physician before consuming energy drinks,” said Higgins.