Energy drinks have become popular among students, athletes and adults looking for that extra edge at the gym, on the playing field, or in the classroom.
The flashy products are marketed as providing desirable and healthful benefits.
But they should have safety warnings on them, says Dr. Ramin Manshadi, cardiologist and author of "The Wisdom of Heart Health: Attaining a Healthy and Robust Heart in Today's Modern World."
The problem? Caffeine.
Almost all of these drinks contain caffeine, which can raise heart rate and blood pressure, Manshadi said. People with unknown heart conditions also are at risk.
Beyond that, energy drinks lead to dehydration and most are high in sugar and other ingredients that raise blood pressure.
"While drinking one of these drinks now and then is fine, many people consume them far too often," Manshadi said. "My overall suggestion? To be on the safe side, simply avoid these energy drinks."
