John Higgins, MD, MBA, FACC, FACP

• Description:
  • Since their introduction in 1987, energy drinks have become increasingly popular and the energy drink market has grown at record pace into a multibillion-dollar global industry. Young people, students, office workers, athletes, weekend warriors, and service members frequently consume energy drinks. Both health care providers and consumers must recognize the difference between energy drinks, traditional beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, soft drinks/sodas, juices, or flavored water), and sports drinks. The research about energy drinks safety and efficacy is often contradictory, given the disparate protocols and types of products consumed: this makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Also, much of the available literature is industry-sponsored. After reports of adverse events associated with energy drink consumption, concerns including trouble sleeping, anxiety, cardiovascular events, seizures, and even death, have been raised about their safety. This lecture will focus on energy drinks use by athletes, effects and side effects associated with their consumption.

• The audience will learn how to:
  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of what energy drinks are, including their ingredients, how they work, and the potential physiological and psychological effects they have on athletes.
  • Differentiate between energy drinks and sports drinks, understanding their distinct compositions, intended purposes, and how they impact athletic performance and overall health.
  • Explore the specific cardiovascular risks posed by energy drinks, including their potential to elevate heart rate, blood pressure, and the risk of arrhythmias, and understand the implications for athletes' cardiovascular health.
  • Examine the non-cardiovascular dangers associated with energy drink consumption, such as the risk of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, adverse effects on sleep patterns, and potential interactions with medications.
  • Provide evidence-based recommendations and practical guidelines for athletes regarding the safe and responsible use of energy drinks, including appropriate consumption patterns, potential alternatives, and strategies to enhance athletic performance without relying on energy drinks.

• 1 Credit Hour as Approved by Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
• 1 Credit Hour as Approved by the Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers (BOC)