What Are the Health Risks of Energy Drinks?

Whether you’re in the throes of an afternoon slump or feeling the after-effects of a late night, it can be tempting to reach for an energy drink. But do these popular products live up to the hype? Is it safe to drink them regularly? Should you down one before you exercise?

Two MultiCare registered dietitians, Lisa Lovejoy, MEd, RD, CSSD, CD, and Alix Leestma, RD, share insight about energy drinks, their health effects and alternatives to consider when you need a pick-me-up.

How much caffeine is too much? Companies promote energy drinks — not be confused with sports beverages like Gatorade — as a way to increase your alertness, focus and energy level. But all that get-up-and-go often comes at a price — namely high levels of caffeine and sugar.

Excerpted from MultiCare Vitals

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