I’m from Loma Linda, California, a small town known as the only Blue Zone in the United States. Studies show that residents Up to 10 years longer More than other parts of the United States.
A lot of my work today is influenced by my upbringing and the Loma Linda community’s emphasis on health and nutrition.
Based on longevity principles and Blue Zones research, I encourage my clients to focus on balanced nutrition, regular enjoyable exercise, developing healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress, and getting enough sleep.
My ultimate goal is to encourage my clients to focus on foods that give them energy and help them avoid foods that are highly processed and lacking in important nutrients.
Why I don’t drink energy drinks
Energy drinks have gained popularity via social media over the past few years and are often marketed as a quick solution to boost your energy, fuel you before a workout, or increase your alertness.
But as a nutritionist, here’s why I urge caution:
1. Energy drinks can disrupt sleep and appetite
One of the main ingredients in many energy drinks is Caffeine helps increase alertness and focus, but too much can cause adverse effects like increased heart rate, high blood pressure and anxiety.
It can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and a dependency on these drinks.
Caffeine is known to have appetite suppressant properties, and many of my clients report a decreased appetite after drinking a caffeinated beverage.
Energy drinks may make you feel full temporarily, but they are not a meal and should not be used as a meal replacement.
2. Energy drinks can spike blood sugar and increase inflammation
A typical can of energy drink often contains up to 30 grams of sugar per serving, and consuming too much sugar can lead to a variety of health problems, including increased inflammation and dental problems.
In addition to caffeine and sugar, energy drinks may contain other stimulants, such as guarana or taurine. These ingredients are generally recognized as safe, but their combined effects with caffeine have not been well studied and may be of concern. May pose additional health risks.
3. Energy drinks may affect your mental and physical health
Frequent consumption of energy drinks Increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stressAccording to the study: A large increase in norepinephrineIt is a stress hormone and can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Individual responses to energy drinks vary widely. Factors such as age, medication use and underlying medical conditions can affect how your body responds. For these drinks.
With that in mind, it’s important to consult with your doctor before consuming energy drinks on a regular basis. Especially if you have existing health concerns.
I always recommend to my clients water, green tea, herbal tea, coconut water and kombucha as great alternatives to energy drinks.
If you feel like you’re constantly needing to refuel, the best advice is to speak with a registered dietitian about your lifestyle and eating habits so you can create a healthier, more sustainable relationship with food and your body.
Eliza Chen I’m a California-based dietitian with a BS in Nutrition from Loma Linda University and experience working with children, teens, and adults in eating disorder treatment, including partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient care. Follow me on Instagram. Follow For more details Our bodies are nourished.
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