Assessment of the effects of energy drinks on the cardiovascular system among students of the medical science

Abstract

Introduction: Energy potion is non-alcoholic drink, which is mostly used by young people to achieve wanted effects. But, these drinks can cause unwanted effects as well, such as cardiovascular disorder, CNS disorder and gastro-interstinal system disorder. The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of consumption of energy drinks and the knowledge of medical students regarding possible side effects, as well as to determine the acute effects after consuming energy drinks on arterial blood pressure, hemoglobin oxygen saturation, pulse and respiration. Material and methods: This study was conducted as an analytical, observational cross-sectional study at the Faculty of Medicine in Novi Sad. The Questionnaire on the level of knowledge and experience about the desired and unwanted effects of energy drinks was used as a research instrument. Results: Students consume energy drinks (80%) and have knowledge of possible side effects (88%). After consuming the energy drink, the differences between the average values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, hemoglobin oxygen saturation and respiration rate were determined. Conclusion: The results of the study show that most students, although they have knowledge about side effects, still consume energy drinks. Changes in cardiorespiratory function after consuming an energy drink were most pronounced in the values of arterial blood pressure.