Energy Drink Truth- Is Diabetes in Your Future?

SUGAR – Almost all energy drinks, except those that are marked "sugar free" and usually those hyped as "light" are high in sugar. The sugar in an 8 ounce can vary from 5 to 8 teaspoons and accounts mostly for 100% of the carbohydrates (80 – 130 calories). The RDA for sugar is approximately 6 – 7 teaspoons of sugar for every 2000 calories consumed. One bottle or can of energy drink contains more than enough sugar for you to eat in an entire day.

Sugar gives you a quick jolt of energy because it is absorbed into your body much faster than other energy sources, ie. protein. Studies show you can feel the effects of sugar within a minute of it entering the body. Sugar rapidly elevates your blood sugar level and gives you quick energy. This is often of short duration however because the body quickly releases a shot of insulin, rapidly lowering your blood sugar. When blood sugar quickly drops, so does endurance and energy.

While the short term side effects of sugar – crashing hours after consumption, increased appetite and the possibility of cavities – are somewhat mild, long term effects are not. Type 2 diabetes has been linked to sugar misuse. Weight gain due to the consumption of empty calories is becoming a bigger problem in the US and around the globe.

Voted the Worst Energy Drink in America
#1. Sobe Energy Adrenaline Rush (16 oz)
260 calories
66 g sugars
152 mg caffeine

#2. AMP Energy (16 oz)
220 calories
58 g sugars
142 mg caffeine

#3. Red Bull (8 oz)
110 calories
27 g sugars
76 mg caffeine