Energy Drinks

Energy drink companies promise that you will feel energized, invincible and be able to tackle your day better than ever! Who wouldn't want all those things? But what they don't tell you is their drinks actually have some weird ingredients in them - like caffeine, medicinal herbs, sugar and vitamins. All these things, especially put together, can be really bad for you.

Did you know?

• One can of an energy drink has more caffeine in it than you should have in an entire day. Now think about when you have multiple energy drinks and a coffee in a day, that adds up quickly.
• Too much caffeine can cause headaches, irritability, nervousness and heart palpitations. Those symptoms definitely won't help you zip through your day.
• Part of what makes you feel energized is the sugar added to these drinks - which is usually the same amount as a can of pop. Sugar can make you feel energized at first, but will leave you more tired than ever just a few hours later.
• Over time, you can become addicted to caffeine. This can mean either craving the drinks, or getting symptoms like headaches when you don't have them
• Unlike sports drinks, energy drinks are actually not designed to improve sports performance. In fact, having an energy drink before working out or playing sports can leave you dehydrated and with an upset stomach. What is even scarier is that the caffeine can increase your risk of heart problems while in the gym, court or field.

If you're feeling low on energy, try eating a healthy snack or meal and drinking some water. If you can, try taking a nap, or after your day is over make sure you get a good nights sleep to recharge!