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Energy drinks linked to heart attacks, cardiac arrest in young adults: study
New York Post • • health
Key Points:
- New research presented by the American Heart Association links energy drinks and stimulant-containing supplements to increased risks of serious heart problems, including cardiac arrest and heart attacks, especially in young adults aged 18 to 34.
- Analysis of over 28,000 FDA reports showed cardiac arrest was reported 11 times more often with caffeine- and stimulant-containing products, while heart attacks and abnormal heart rhythms were reported 4 to 4.5 times more often.
- These products often contain high levels of caffeine—sometimes exceeding safe daily limits—and other stimulants such as synephrine and yohimbine, which may interact unpredictably and increase cardiovascular risk.
- Experts advise monitoring for heart-related symptoms like palpitations, chest pain, or fainting when consuming these products and recommend consulting a doctor before use, especially for individuals with known or suspected heart conditions.
- The study is observational and preliminary, with limitations including voluntary FDA reporting and inability to prove causation; industry groups emphasize that moderate caffeine intake is generally considered safe by regulatory agencies.
