One perusal down the refrigerator case at your convenience store and you'll see an incredible phenomenon taking place in the drink market. A huge array of high priced, highly-caffeinated energy drinks. With the exploding energy drink market - over 300 new energy beverages introduced in 2006 - it's obvious we live in a sleep-deprived, overly-fatigued society, and no one feels it more than the new mom. We're looking for a magic elixir to refresh our energy and recharge our batteries. Are energy drinks the answer? If you're pregnant or nursing the answer is definitely NO. But even for other moms, you need to read the label carefully. There are a lot of ingredients being put into energy drinks that you may not want in your body in the amounts they contain. As an example, guarana, found in many energy drinks, in high doses can cause heart palpitations and raise blood pressure.
A recent study presented at the American Heart Association annual meeting indicates the potential dangers. Most energy drinks also contain significant amounts of caffeine, which can cause dependence and highs and lows in energy. You also have to watch for the calories; similar to regular soda at 70-150 calories per 8-ounces in the non sugar-free versions, they can pack on pounds if it becomes a daily habit. Bottom line:
Try natural energy boosters first.
- Eat regularly
- Drink plenty of water
- Take power naps (20 minutes does wonders)
- Exercise moderately for 30 minutes a day
If you still feel lethargic, visit the doctor for a check up to rule out potential health issues.
For those who still want their energy drinks: An energy drink once in a while likely won't cause much harm but you're better off avoiding them. Save only for special circumstances where high doses of caffeine is crucial - like the morning after being up all night with a sick baby and you have a big presentation to give.
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