City youth hooked on energy sips

I’m working out, so no alcohol for me. I’ll stick to a Red Bull.” Have you kept track of the number of times you’ve heard this at a social gathering in the city? With rising health consciousness among the city’s residents, party revellers believe they are keeping healthy by choosing energy drinks over alcohol. They feel energy drinks are better than being seen with water or juice.
But a recent study claims energy drinks could actually cause heart problems. An Australian study published in the American Journal of Medicine says pressure on the arteries increases and blood pressure rises after consuming such drinks. But this hasn’t perturbed the city’s party animals. They maintain that they follow the ‘moderation mantra’.
“I drink only occasionally and I find energy drinks are a better choice as they keep me going through the party. It’s tough socialising after a hard day at work. So you need something that instantly ups your energy levels,” says Priti Raj, who works with a MNC.
Priti says, “Anything taken in excess is harmful. Despite all the positives, energy drinks come with some lows. That is the reason I control my intake of such drinks.”
Entrepreneur Adil Arif, another regular on the social circuit adds, “Despite all that is said about these beverages, I’ve always felt that energy drinks are the best choice when I’m socialising because it keeps me refreshed.”
Experts advice a balanced approach. Malathi Mohan, dean of Fitness One, points out, “Of course, nothing can beat water when it comes to refreshing you when you’re tired and that’s what we also advise.” Glucose with water is good for those who feel weak or faint since it replenishes energy almost immediately, while fresh fruit juices are also a good choice, says Malathi.
But she acknowledges that carrying fresh juice is not a viable option. “While manufacturers have tried their level best to reduce the disadvantages of these energy drinks, it’s still advisable to consume them rarely,” she says.