Heart Doctors Warn: Energy Drinks, Not Bubble Tea, May Lead to High Blood Pressure

Multiple cardiologists are urging people to limit their intake of popular energy drinks, warning of significant risks to cardiovascular health. While moderate consumption may have minimal impact, excessive drinking can lead to serious heart conditions, according to Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, medical director of the structural heart disease program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California.

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Our dietary habits have a significant impact on blood pressure.

Dr. Hosam Hmoud, a cardiologist at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital, highlighted that the high caffeine content in energy drinks can elevate blood pressure and strain the heart, potentially leading to heart failure. He also noted that high blood pressure can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of stroke by affecting blood flow to the neck and brain.

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Energy drinks may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease; if only a small amount is consumed, the impact is minimal; conversely, if too much is consumed, it can lead to serious heart disease.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also points out that many energy drinks contain large amounts of caffeine and added sugars, which can aggravate existing high blood pressure. Dr. Hmoud suggests that a daily caffeine intake below 400 milligrams is generally acceptable and recommends opting for unsweetened tea or coffee for a pick-me-up, noting tea's antioxidant benefits.

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For those with a history of arrhythmia, high doses of caffeine can exacerbate symptoms such as palpitations or rapid heartbeat.