Energy Drinks And Health Risks: A Review Of Composition, Consumption Patterns, And Regulatory Gaps

Authors : Hüdayi Ercoşkun

Pages : 678-693

Doi:10.15316/selcukjafsci.1572622

View : 444 | Download : 2218

Publication Date : 2025-12-27

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :Energy drinks (EDs) have gained increasing popularity worldwide, especially among adolescents, athletes, and young adults. Marketed for their benefits in enhancing alertness, mental performance, and physical endurance, these beverages contain bioactive ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, guarana, L-carnitine, B vitamins, and high amounts of sugar. However, growing scientific evidence suggests that excessive and long-term consumption of EDs poses serious health risks. This review critically examines the physiological effects of common ED components, highlights current trends in global and Turkish markets, and discusses emerging regulatory responses. Caffeine levels in many EDs far exceed those in coffee and are linked to cardiovascular symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, and dependency. High sugar content contributes to obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders. Other ingredients like taurine and guarana may intensify stimulant effects and present unknown risks when combined. Recent studies raise concerns about the psychological and behavioral impacts of frequent ED use, particularly in adolescents, including associations with risk-taking behaviors and substance use. Although the Turkish Food Codex has established regulations limiting caffeine, taurine, and sales to minors, labeling standards and digital marketing controls remain insufficient. This review emphasizes the need for updated national and international regulatory frameworks, better labeling practices, and targeted education campaigns. It concludes that while moderate ED consumption may not be harmful to healthy adults, current patterns of frequent and unregulated use—especially by youth—demand urgent public health intervention. Future research should explore long-term impacts and the synergistic effects of ED components.
Keywords : Enerji içecekleri, Kafein, Taurin, Kardiyovasküler etkiler, Halk sağlığı, Düzenleme, Gençlerin tüketimi

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