Dr. Sermed Mazhar, a general practitioner based in London, shared a video on TikTok explaining the potential health risks of energy drinks.
This came in response to a previous video by another user who said, "When one energy drink a week turns into one a day, you may end up needing kidney surgery."
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Dr. Mazhar explained that energy drinks could harm the kidneys in three main ways:
High Blood Pressure: Many energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which can significantly raise blood pressure. Over time, this can lead to damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys.
Dehydration: Some people believe energy drinks provide hydration, but they can actually lead to dehydration due to the diuretic effect of caffeine, which increases fluid loss. If this lost fluid isn't replaced by drinking enough water, it can overwork the kidneys and impair their function.
High Sugar Levels: Most energy drinks contain large amounts of sugar, which can raise blood sugar levels, particularly in individuals at risk of diabetes, adding additional strain on the kidneys.
Dr. Mazhar also pointed out that some ingredients added to energy drinks, such as taurine and guarana, may cause blood vessels to constrict and increase heart rate, putting extra pressure on the kidneys.
Chronic high blood pressure is a major risk factor for kidney disease because it damages the tiny blood vessels within the kidneys, leading to reduced function over time.
His warning is supported by a case study published in Medical Case Reports, which described a 62-year-old American woman who developed acute kidney failure and acute liver inflammation due to excessive consumption of energy drinks. The report noted that her health improved after stopping the drinks and receiving treatment.
The study's authors mentioned that the exact mechanism by which energy drinks damage the kidneys is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to the effects of their various ingredients. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received numerous reports of serious health issues related to these drinks, including acute kidney injury and acute hepatitis.
Dr. Mazhar concluded that moderate consumption of energy drinks does not pose a significant risk, but excessive consumption could lead to severe health problems.
