Hectic schedules and sleep deficiencies lead many Americans to rely on caffeine for heightened alertness. Energy drinks, while convenient sources of the stimulant, have caused concern for many health care professionals due to their rich content of sugar, caffeine and other stimulants, such as guarana and taurine. Consuming these ingredients in excess can cause a variety of complications, including mood swings.
Caffeine and other stimulants pass quickly into your body tissues and brain, exciting your brain and nervous system. Even when consumed at low levels, caffeine can cause harmful effects that tinker with your moods, such as a rapid heart rate, sleep difficulties, anxiety, depression and restlessness. Because energy drink manufacturers are not required to list caffeine content on product packaging, it's difficult to determine how much caffeine and other stimulants you're consuming. Some varieties contain over 500 milligrams of caffeine, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, which is equal to 14 cans of caffeinated soft drink. Stimulants can also offset blood sugar control, which can cause mood swings.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that, from 2007 to 2011, the number of emergency room visits involving energy drinks doubled in the United States from 10,068 visits in 2007 to 20,783 in 2011. During this time, there were more patients age 18 to 39 than any other age group, but the largest growing increase was in people age 40 or older. Reported mood-related complications of energy drinks include depression, anxiety, lethargy, hallucinations and mania.
There are no official guidelines for energy drink consumption, but, due to health risks, the American Academy of Pediatrics discourages intake by children and adolescents. Densie Webb, a registered dietitian and contributing writer for "Today's Dietitian," recommends that adults consume not more than one 16.9-ounce can per day and avoid mixing the drinks with alcohol, which increases your risk for side effects. Avoid energy drinks if you have a medical condition, such as high blood pressure or arrhythmia, or seek pre-approval from your doctor.
Mood Balance Through Diet
In addition to managing stress and getting sufficient sleep and hydration, altering your eating habits can help prevent mood swings. Joy Bauer, a registered dietitian in New York City, recommends that those prone to moodiness eat balanced meals or snacks every four to five hours to provide brain and body with constant fuel and to prevent blood sugar imbalances. Pair complex carbohydrate sources, such as whole grains and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, with lean protein sources, such as low-fat dairy products, tofu and fish, for best results. Omega-3 fat sources, such as fatty fish and flaxseed, can also help keep your brain functioning sharply and your moods in check.
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Energy Drinks: Exploring Concerns About Marketing to Youth
- National Library of Medicine: Caffeine in the Diet
- The Dawn Report: Update on Emergency Department Visits Involving Energy Drinks; A Continuing Public Health Concern
- Food and Drug Administration: Voluntary and Mandatory Reports on 5-Hour Energy, Monster Energy, and Rockstar Energy Drink
- American Diabetes Association: What Can I Drink?
- Joy Bauer: Even Out Your Moods with Food
- Today's Dietitian: The Truth About Energy Drinks
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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