The Buzz on Energy Drinks – Tufts

The latest market data show a continued rise in demand for energy drinks—beverages that promise things like increased energy, improved mood, and sharper mental acuity. Medical records show adverse events related to these drinks are on the rise as well, according to the Health & Nutrition Letter of Tufts University.

Typical Ingredients: Most energy drinks contain caffeine, and many contain multiple stimulants. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t define the term “energy drink,” which means manufacturers can decide whether to label their products as dietary supplements or beverages. For beverages, manufacturers must abide by the FDA’s safety limits for ingredients like caffeine. Dietary supplements are not regulated, so there are essentially no safety guidelines.