A consultant cardiologist at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, Dr Abubakar Sani, has warned Nigerians against the excessive consumption of energy drinks, describing the trend as a serious threat to heart health.
Sani said there has been a noticeable increase in the consumption of energy drinks among youths in Gombe metropolis and its suburbs.
Some youths who spoke on the trend said they consume energy drinks to endure long working hours and enhance sexual performance, while others admitted to mixing the drinks with alcohol to “get maximum results.”
In an interview on Friday, Sani described the excessive intake of stimulant-packed beverages as a “time bomb,” particularly for young people.
He said the growing consumption of energy drinks among youths poses health risks that are far more serious than many consumers realise.
According to him, with cardiovascular diseases increasingly becoming a major cause of death in developing countries, it has become imperative for young people to stay away from such drinks.
He explained that heavy consumption of energy drinks is associated with several cardiovascular hazards, including an increased risk of heart disease, hypertension and diabetes, while also posing a serious risk of stroke.
“These energy drinks can disrupt the heart’s electrical rhythm and normal activities, making blood vessels stiff and increasing the chances of dangerous irregularities in heartbeat.
“Energy drinks are rich in caffeine, sugar and other stimulants that affect many parts of the body, including the heart, nervous system, brain, liver and kidneys,” he said.
“For the sake of your heart health, stay away from energy drinks. They are not safe, and although their complications may take time to manifest, they will surely come,” Sani warned.
He added that recent studies have linked the rising incidence of heart disease among youths to excessive energy drink consumption, staying up late, poor dietary habits and lack of physical exercise.
The cardiologist noted that the dangers of excessive energy drink intake are even greater for individuals with underlying heart conditions.
“The combination of high caffeine levels and added stimulants can strain the heart far more than most people realise.
“Youths must avoid these drinks, as energy beverages can affect the heart and, in severe cases, trigger cardiac arrest and even death if medical intervention is not promptly provided,” he said.
Sani also dismissed misconceptions that energy drinks improve intelligence, warning that excessive intake can lead to mental health problems such as increased anxiety, depression, stress and sleep disorders.
He advised Nigerians to avoid energy drinks, alcoholic and sugary beverages, reduce high salt intake and processed foods, and adopt healthy diets and regular exercise to improve overall heart health.
