Here’s where the problem emerges. Medical professionals say that the average adult should limit caffeine consumption to about 400 mg per day. So if you have just one Rockstar, you’re still in the limits of health. That said, many people don’t stop at just one. They consume energy drinks throughout the day, which makes the amount of caffeine consumed reach well beyond recommended limits. 

Excess caffeine in general can lead to a number of health conditions in adults. Not only can it cause jitteriness, it can reduce insulin sensitivity and increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes. In addition, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and even convulsions.

At the center of this debate, some argue that the caffeine found in energy drinks is no different than that in other beverages. However, experts disagree. Research published in the journal Frontiers compares the effects of caffeine in coffee to caffeine in energy drinks.  “Although some types of coffee can have caffeine levels comparable to energy drinks, coffee is typically consumed hot and consequently more slowly,” note the authors.  

Also of concern is adolescent behavior associated with energy drinks. According to Elsevier, it is estimated that 31 percent of adolescents between the ages of 12 and 19 consume energy drinks regularly. This comes with dangerous risks.

Research shows that adolescents who consume energy drinks may engage in sensation seeking behavior, smoking, and binge drinking. In addition, the risk of depression is increased. Further, experts say that some adolescents who consume energy drinks struggle with behavior modification and cognitive capabilities.

In addition, experts argue that energy drinks may elevate the risk of alcohol dependence, saying that neuropharmacogolic effects associated with caffeine in general drive one’s ability to become addicted to other substances.