Are Energy Drinks Bad for You?

Short answer: an occasional energy drink is fine for most healthy adults if total caffeine stays in range. The risks come from high caffeine doses, added sugar, and use by kids and teens.

What the FDA says ([FDA](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much))

• Energy drinks generally contain 54–328 mg of caffeine per 16 oz.
• There's no FDA regulation specific to "energy drinks."
• For most adults, 400 mg/day is not generally associated with negative effects.
• Medical experts advise against energy drinks for children and teens.
• Rapid intake of around 1,200 mg can cause toxic effects such as seizures.

Side effects of too much caffeine (FDA list)

Fast heart rate, palpitations, high blood pressure, insomnia, anxiety, jitters, upset stomach, nausea, headache.

Who should avoid or limit them

Children and teens; people who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding (ask your clinician); people with heart conditions or caffeine sensitivity; anyone mixing them with alcohol.

How to drink them more safely

Pick sugar-free versions, choose lower-caffeine cans, count every caffeine source in your day, and avoid them late in the day.