Hot Topic Tuesdays - Energy Drinks/Vitamin Waters

I'm sure there will be some late nights in the near future if there haven't been already this semester.  Cramming for an exam, finishing up a project or just something more exciting than sleep.  A lot of you may reach for an energy drink to keep you going. 

How healthy are drinks that claim they have extra nutrients or give you extra energy?

The American Dietetic Association (ADA) points out the following:

• Many drinks with added vitamins/minerals are not providing the nutrients that are frequently lacking in American diets (Calcium, potassium, folate and vitamin D)
• Some drinks are packed with calories often higher than soda.
• Caffeine is frequently thought to be the major issue with energy drinks, but most drinks ranged between 0 to 141.1 mg/serving.  An 8-ounce cup of coffee contains 133 mg of caffeine.
• Although some energy drinks/vitamin waters may be providing hydration, they are not addressing any major health concerns of today.

Overall, energy drinks/vitamin waters are likely not the "magic bullet" most people are looking for, but they can still fit within a healthy diet.  To ensure they fit, READ the label!  And if you just drinking them for extra vitamins/minerals....try a daily multivitamin instead.

So when you are trying to pull an all-nighter and are reaching for something to keep you going....sleep might really be the best bet.




Information for this article was adapted from the American Dietetic Association's Hot Topic: Functional Beverages by Sharon Palmer, Feb 2008.