Energy drinks are becoming more popular these days as they offer a quick boost of energy at work or at a party. However, the long-term consumption of these beverages, especially in warm climates like Pune, can have detrimental effects on the kidney. Energy drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants like taurine and guarana. In warm climates, where dehydration is already a concern, these drinks can significantly increase the strain on the kidneys. Energy drinks can have significant effects on women's health, particularly on kidney function, cardiovascular health, and hormonal balance. Here’s how they can impact your health:
Effects on Women's Health
Dr. Chinmay Umarji, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umarji Hospital, Mother and Child Care lists how energy drinks impact women’s health:
1. Hormonal Disruptions – High caffeine and sugar content can affect cortisol and estrogen levels, potentially worsening conditions like PCOS or menstrual irregularities.
2. Heart Health Risks – Energy drinks can cause increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and palpitations, which may be more pronounced in women due to differences in metabolism.
3. Bone Health – Some studies suggest excessive caffeine can reduce calcium absorption, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, which women are already more prone to.
4. Mental Health – Energy drinks may contribute to anxiety, insomnia, and mood swings, especially in women who are more sensitive to caffeine.
5. Pregnancy Concerns – High caffeine intake during pregnancy is linked to low birth weight, miscarriage, and fetal growth restriction.
Effects on Kidney Health
1. Dehydration & Kidney Strain – Caffeine acts as a diuretic, leading to increased urine output and potential dehydration, which can strain the kidneys.
2. Risk of Kidney Stones – Energy drinks often contain phosphoric acid, which may increase the risk of kidney stones, especially when hydration is inadequate.
3. Impact on Kidney Function – Excessive sugar and artificial ingredients can contribute to metabolic disorders like diabetes, which is a major risk factor for kidney disease.
4. Increased Risk of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) – Excessive caffeine and taurine can cause temporary kidney dysfunction, especially when combined with strenuous physical activity.
Lesser known impacts of energy drinks
Dehydration
One of the greatest risks of energy drink consumption in hot environments is dehydration. Caffeine, a central ingredient in many energy drinks, is a diuretic, which increases urine production and can lead to a loss of fluids and electrolytes. In warm climates, where people sweat more to regulate body temperature, this effect is doubled, making it even harder to maintain proper hydration. Dehydration can severely stress the kidneys, as they are forced to work harder to filter waste and maintain fluid balance in the body.
Excess calories
Dr. Sunil Jawale , Nephrologist, Renal Specialist, Inamdar Hospitals, Pune says, “Furthermore, the high sugar content in energy drinks can increase the risk of kidney damage over time. Excessive sugar intake has been linked to the development of kidney disease, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions like diabetes. When consumed regularly, the sugar in energy drinks can contribute to an increase in blood sugar levels, making the kidney less effective in filtering waste.”
High blood pressure
Additionally, the combination of stimulants and dehydration can elevate blood pressure, another factor that puts additional strain on the kidneys. Over time, this can lead to kidney dysfunction or even chronic kidney disease.
Who should be extra cautious?
Pregnant women
Women with a history of kidney disease or kidney stones
Those with hypertension or heart conditions
Women with PCOS or hormonal imbalances
In pregnancy they can have a negative impact on the baby and the mother as follows:
1. Increased Risk of Miscarriage and Preterm Birth
High caffeine intake is linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, and stillbirth.
Caffeine crosses the placenta, but the baby’s liver is not fully developed to metabolize it, leading to prolonged effects.
2. Low Birth Weight and Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR)
Caffeine reduces blood flow to the placenta, which can limit fetal growth and lead to low birth weight.
Studies suggest consuming more than 200 mg of caffeine daily (about one energy drink) increases the risk of fetal growth restriction.
3. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Energy drinks contain stimulants like caffeine and taurine, which elevate maternal heart rate and blood pressure.
This increases the risk of preeclampsia (a dangerous condition of high blood pressure in pregnancy).
4. Gestational Diabetes Risk
Energy drinks are loaded with sugar, which can spike blood sugar levels.
This may increase the risk of gestational diabetes, affecting both mother and baby’s long-term health.
5. Sleep and Anxiety Issues
Pregnancy hormones already cause sleep disturbances and anxiety, and energy drinks can worsen these symptoms.
Poor sleep and high stress can negatively impact fetal development.
6. Neonatal Withdrawal Symptoms
Regular caffeine consumption during pregnancy can lead to newborn withdrawal symptoms like irritability, poor feeding, and sleep disturbances.
Healthier Alternatives to Energy Drinks
Herbal teas (without caffeine)
Coconut water for natural electrolytes
Homemade smoothies with protein and healthy fats
Green tea (moderate caffeine but with antioxidants)
Therefore, regularly consuming energy drinks in warm climates hits the kidney by forcing it to work harder while having less liquid to work with and with higher blood pressure as well. If you live in a hot climate with dry heat, make sure to stay hydrated well and reduce the consumption of energy drinks in order to protect your kidneys.
