Red Bull is still a very popular energy drink in spite of all of the health warnings against energy drinks. So what does it actually do? Research has proved that caffeine based drinks and liquor cocktails have the same effect as cocaine on a teenagers brain. That’s scary indeed.
After 10 minutes the caffeine begins to filter into your bloodstream, and increase your heart rate and blood pressure. 15 to 45 minutes later you’ll feel more alert. 30 to 50 minutes later the caffeine absorption is complete and your pupils dilate, blood pressure rises and your liver releases more sugar into your bloodstream. After one hour your body experiences a sugar crash. You’ll start to feel tired and your energy levels will be low. Five to six hours later the caffeine in your body is gradually released by about half, if you’re on the pill it will take 10 hours. 12 hours is the time it takes most people to fully remove caffeine from their bloodstream. 12 to 24 hours later withdrawal symptoms kick in, and at that point you’re probably ready for another. If you are drinking these drinks every day you’ll start to feel lethargic, headachey and lacking in concentration. All of which are signs of withdrawal. After 7 to 12 days your body becomes tolerant to the regular caffeine dosage which means the effects are less and so you need more. And so the addiction starts.
Beware of so called healthy energy drinks. Particularly at this time of year when there are so many more parties and so many more reasons to stay awake and energised. Perhaps it’s better to remember that if you’re feeling tired the best thing you can do is get some rest, and save the partying for another day!!