Latest news with #Raquel
Yahoo
6 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Wednesday's Warrior: 17-year-old girl aims to inspire children with ‘Books for New Haven'
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — It started with a simple idea: give young readers books they can keep. 'Books for New Haven was a project I started when I was 14 years old, I was a freshman in High School, and I really started it because I wanted people to have ownership over the books they had,' Raquel Figueroa-Crespo, who is now 17, said. Wednesday's Warrior: Vernon man honors father living with early-onset Alzheimer's She noticed that while libraries are great, you don't get to keep the books you connect with. 'Libraries are such amazing resources, but like, if you really love a book, you don't really get to hold onto it,' she said. When it came to book donations, the selection wasn't always inspiring. 'And a lot of book drives and things like that kind of collect older books,' she said. Raquel wanted something different for her city—books that felt relevant and engaging 'It can kind of be hard to get, especially kids, involved with reading if what they're reading is outdated or unrelatable to them,' she said. So, she began emailing major publishers. 'I started emailing publishing companies and asking them for the books they couldn't sell, so I was able to distribute them in New Haven, she said. She then brings the books to community events and block parties, 'and sometimes I'll also just go fill up little free libraries in underserved areas.' Hoping to bring happiness and growth to kids in the Elm City, one page at a time. 'I think that a lot of self-exploration happens through reading, but it also gives you perspective, and it really helps you build empathy,' she said. If you have books you'd like to donate, you can email booksfornewhaven203@ Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
The Irish Sun
27-04-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
What's REALLY in your favourite energy drink? The harmful ingredients to avoid, and the ones nutritionists say are OK
WHETHER we need a 3pm pick-me-up or we're gearing up for a tough workout, many of us reach for an energy drink. But before you crack open your next can, you should know they come with several serious health risks. 9 Energy drinks have been linked to everything from anxiety to heart issues Credit: Getty Scientists have linked the Research has also found them to make And a study by Newcastle University even suggested they put children and young people at increased risk of drug taking, violence and Despite these warnings, the UK energy and sports drink market is worth around £3.1billion, with under-18s guzzling more cans than those in any other European country. READ MORE ON ENERGY DRINKS But are all Raquel Britzke, a nutritionist at Doctify, tells Sun Health: 'They can have a place if used occasionally and thoughtfully, like before a long drive or a workout. 'But the issue with energy drinks is when they're used daily, or worse, multiple times a day. 'I see clients all the time who rely on them to get through the day, which usually signals something else - such as poor sleep, high stress and not enough nourishment from food.' Most read in Health If you're going to have an 'Drinking more than that and you risk poor sleep, anxiety, jitteriness, headaches or even heart palpitations,' Raquel adds. The dangers of energy drinks 'Long term, it can impact blood pressure, blood sugar and overall stress on the body.' While some energy drinks contain various 'healthy' ingredients, many do not. From high doses of caffeine to health-harming preservatives, these are the ones to look out for… CAFFEINE CAFFEINE is a natural stimulant, and probably why you reach for an energy drink in the first place. It increases the activity of the brain and central nervous system, helping you to stay alert. Around 400 milligrams (mg) in separate sittings is considered safe for most adults, according to the European Food Safety Authority. A large cup of coffee contains around 80mg, but Lucia Stansbie, nutritional therapist and founder of 9 The energy and sports drink market is worth around £3.1billion in the UK Credit: Getty 'Too much caffeine can trigger the nervous system, increasing agitation and anxiety,' she says. 'Consuming this during the day can also impact sleep quality, as well as having a dehydrating effect because caffeine is a diuretic.' Raquel says it's best to consume a maximum of 150mg of caffeine per drink. Do one better and look for caffeine from natural sources. 'Caffeine from sources such as green tea or yerba matcha is usually better tolerated, and often paired with other beneficial compounds such as L-theanine (in green tea), which has a calming effect and reduces the jittery impact,' she says. 'But it's still caffeine, so the dose matters more than the source.' 9 SUGAR AS well as the caffeine, some energy drinks pack in serious amounts of sugar. 'An average can contains 20g to 50g of sugar,' says Lucia. 'For context, a doughnut contains around 20g.' But what's the danger? 'Sugar can spike your blood sugar, which is then followed by a crash that leaves you feeling even more tired and craving more sugar or caffeine,' says Raquel. There is plenty of research demonstrating just how harmful sugar can be. 9 Some energy drinks contain up to 55g of sugar per can Credit: Getty A review in the journal Nutrients, for example, found that people who drank high amounts of sugar-sweetened drinks were more prone to weight gain. They also had a higher risk of obesity, A separate study by the University of Washington found women who consumed more than one sugary drink per day were The NHS recommends no more than 30g of added sugar a day for adults. Check the label of your energy drink, as sugar comes under various names, such as sucrose, high fructose corn syrup and glucose. 'If your energy drink has more than 10g to 15g of sugar per serving, it is to be considered a high sugar drink which is best not to consume regularly,' says Lucia. 9 ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS IT'S not uncommon to see artificial sweeteners added to energy drinks. Many of the zero sugar varieties get their super sweet taste from ingredients like aspartame, sucralose and acesulfame K. Although they are lower in calories, it doesn't mean they are healthy. In fact, artificial Research published in the journal Cureus concluded they can negatively impact your gut, brain and heart. Scientists at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden found aspartame may trigger insulin spikes and a build-up of fatty plaques in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. A separate study, published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, linked erythritol (E968) to an increased risk of blood clots. And neotame was found to damage the lining of the intestine, which could lead to It doesn't matter if a drink features beneficial ingredients - if it is very high in sugar, I would get the same nutrients from food sources Lucia Stansbie Nutritional therapist Lucia says that for her, the most problematic artificial 'They are linked to disruption of the gut microbiome (the bacteria that live within your gut), headaches and metabolic dysfunction,' she adds. Better alternatives to look out for in your energy drinks, she says, are steve and monk fruit, both of which are natural. 'The sweetener erythritol sits in the middle,' Lucia says. 'It's not totally bad but it can cause gastric distress in excessive quantities. 'People suffering from diabetes and pre-diabetes should be particularly careful with sweeteners and the 'zero sugar' labels as they can still impact insulin metabolism.' She adds that those with specific neurological sensitivities such as ADHD or chronic 9 TAURINE YOU might see ' Well it is one of 20 amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. We naturally make taurine and also get it from foods such as meat. 'On its own, taurine is not usually an issue, and may even support heart and brain health,' says Raquel. 'But when combined with high caffeine and other stimulants, it's a lot for the nervous system to handle, especially in large quantities or for younger people.' Lucia adds: 'Quantities above 3,000mg can cause vomiting, nausea, headaches, stomach pain and nervous system overstimulation. 'Consider that a Red Bull contains 1,000mg of taurine and that its stimulant effects are enhanced by caffeine.' 9 COLOURS AND PRESERVATIVES EVER wondered why your energy drink is so brightly coloured? It might be down to artificial colourings, such as E102 (yellow), E129 (red) and E133 (blue). 'These are linked to hyperactivity, allergies and potentially neurotoxicity,' Lucia says. 'I would check for healthier alternatives like natural colourings from beet juice, spirulina or turmeric.' A 2004 analysis of 15 studies concluded that 'widely distributed' artificial food dyes can increase hyperactivity in kids. Further research by scientists at Virginia Commonwealth University found animals given high doses of E132 (blue 2) had significantly more And a study published in Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology found male rats given E127 (red 3) had an increased risk of thyroid tumours. These tests were done on animals, and further research is needed on the potential dangers for humans. However, products containing the following artificial colours must carry a warning on the packaging in the UK: Sunset yellow FCF (E110) Quinoline yellow (E104) Carmoisine (E122) Allura red (E129) Tartrazine (E102) Ponceau 4R (E124) This will say: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' As for preservatives, which are added to energy drinks to help them last longer, Raquel says sodium benzoate can cause issues for some people, 'especially when combined with certain vitamins like C'. Research published in the Scientific World Journal found that the higher the concentration of sodium benzoate, the more free radicals are created. These can damage your cells, increasing your risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer's, scientists say. Where possible, choose an energy drink with minimal preservatives. Citric acid or vitamin C are better options, Lucia says. 9 THE 'GOOD' INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR ALTHOUGH there are lots of ingredients to be wary of, there are also plenty that can offer health benefits. 'Adaptogens (natural substances that help the body adapt to stress) like ashwagandha can help mitigate the caffeine spike,' says Lucia. Raquel adds: 'Electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium are great if you're sweating a lot or need hydration support, and B vitamins support energy production.' Vitamin C is also great as it supports the immune system and helps to maintain healthy skin and bones. But, regardless of any 'healthy' ingredients, Lucia warns: 'I will always be mindful of the sugar content. 'It doesn't matter if a drink features all the beneficial ingredients above - if it is very high in sugar, I would still discharge it and get the same nutrients from food sources.' Exactly what a single energy drink can do your body – minute by minute By Vanessa Chalmers, Assistant Head of Health YOU may be familiar with the surge in alertness after drinking an energy drink, but there are half a dozen things that Data from gift site It was created using information from sources including the UK's National Health Service (NHS), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and energy drink manufacturer Red Bull. It may make you re-think your habit, and re-assess whether the highs and lows of energy are worth it for a quick hit. First 10 minutes That's the time the caffeine begins to enter the bloodstream, causing your Previous research has looked at the impact of energy drinks on the blood pressure and hearts of young people. One small 15-45 minutes This is the time caffeine level peaks, making you feel alert and improving concentration. 30-50 minutes By now, all of the caffeine has been absorbed and your liver will often react by absorbing more sugar. 1 hour This is when you are likely to get the 'sugar crash' - when your blood sugar and caffeine level drops - and you may feel tired. 5-6 hours Roughly five to six hours after consumption your body will have reduced the caffeine content in your bloodstream by 50 per cent. 12 hours Around 12 hours after finishing an energy drink, the caffeine will be out of most people's bloodstreams, but it does vary due to age and activity. 12-24 hours If you have been drinking energy drinks regularly, between 12 and 24 hours is the time you'll start to feel withdrawal symptoms. You may suffer from headaches, irritability and constipation. 7-12 days Studies have shown this is the time it takes the body to become tolerant of your daily caffeine dosage. This means if you keep the level the same, you are unlikely to feel any effects at this point. 9 Look out for colours, sweeteners and preservatives in energy drinks Credit: Getty
Scottish Sun
27-04-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
What's REALLY in your favourite energy drink? The harmful ingredients to avoid, and the ones nutritionists say are OK
From caffeine content to taurine and what gives energy drinks their brightly-coloured glow - we rank the best and worst offenders FIZZ FEARS What's REALLY in your favourite energy drink? The harmful ingredients to avoid, and the ones nutritionists say are OK Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WHETHER we need a 3pm pick-me-up or we're gearing up for a tough workout, many of us reach for an energy drink. But before you crack open your next can, you should know they come with several serious health risks. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 9 Energy drinks have been linked to everything from anxiety to heart issues Credit: Getty Scientists have linked the caffeinated beverages to headaches, sleep problems and anxiety, as well as high blood pressure and kidney damage. Research has also found them to make heart issues and strokes more likely. And a study by Newcastle University even suggested they put children and young people at increased risk of drug taking, violence and suicidal thoughts. Despite these warnings, the UK energy and sports drink market is worth around £3.1billion, with under-18s guzzling more cans than those in any other European country. But are all energy drinks bad? And is it ever OK to consume them? Raquel Britzke, a nutritionist at Doctify, tells Sun Health: 'They can have a place if used occasionally and thoughtfully, like before a long drive or a workout. 'But the issue with energy drinks is when they're used daily, or worse, multiple times a day. 'I see clients all the time who rely on them to get through the day, which usually signals something else - such as poor sleep, high stress and not enough nourishment from food.' If you're going to have an energy drink, limit yourself to one small (250ml) can per day. 'Drinking more than that and you risk poor sleep, anxiety, jitteriness, headaches or even heart palpitations,' Raquel adds. The dangers of energy drinks 'Long term, it can impact blood pressure, blood sugar and overall stress on the body.' While some energy drinks contain various 'healthy' ingredients, many do not. From high doses of caffeine to health-harming preservatives, these are the ones to look out for… CAFFEINE CAFFEINE is a natural stimulant, and probably why you reach for an energy drink in the first place. It increases the activity of the brain and central nervous system, helping you to stay alert. Around 400 milligrams (mg) in separate sittings is considered safe for most adults, according to the European Food Safety Authority. A large cup of coffee contains around 80mg, but Lucia Stansbie, nutritional therapist and founder of Food Power Nutrition, warns that some energy drinks, particularly those imported from abroad, can carry up to 300mg. 9 The energy and sports drink market is worth around £3.1billion in the UK Credit: Getty 'Too much caffeine can trigger the nervous system, increasing agitation and anxiety,' she says. 'Consuming this during the day can also impact sleep quality, as well as having a dehydrating effect because caffeine is a diuretic.' Raquel says it's best to consume a maximum of 150mg of caffeine per drink. Do one better and look for caffeine from natural sources. 'Caffeine from sources such as green tea or yerba matcha is usually better tolerated, and often paired with other beneficial compounds such as L-theanine (in green tea), which has a calming effect and reduces the jittery impact,' she says. 'But it's still caffeine, so the dose matters more than the source.' 9 SUGAR AS well as the caffeine, some energy drinks pack in serious amounts of sugar. 'An average can contains 20g to 50g of sugar,' says Lucia. 'For context, a doughnut contains around 20g.' But what's the danger? 'Sugar can spike your blood sugar, which is then followed by a crash that leaves you feeling even more tired and craving more sugar or caffeine,' says Raquel. There is plenty of research demonstrating just how harmful sugar can be. 9 Some energy drinks contain up to 55g of sugar per can Credit: Getty A review in the journal Nutrients, for example, found that people who drank high amounts of sugar-sweetened drinks were more prone to weight gain. They also had a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A separate study by the University of Washington found women who consumed more than one sugary drink per day were five times more likely to get mouth cancer than those who drink less than one a month. The NHS recommends no more than 30g of added sugar a day for adults. Check the label of your energy drink, as sugar comes under various names, such as sucrose, high fructose corn syrup and glucose. 'If your energy drink has more than 10g to 15g of sugar per serving, it is to be considered a high sugar drink which is best not to consume regularly,' says Lucia. 9 ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS IT'S not uncommon to see artificial sweeteners added to energy drinks. Many of the zero sugar varieties get their super sweet taste from ingredients like aspartame, sucralose and acesulfame K. Although they are lower in calories, it doesn't mean they are healthy. In fact, artificial sweeteners have come under serious fire in recent years. Research published in the journal Cureus concluded they can negatively impact your gut, brain and heart. Scientists at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden found aspartame may trigger insulin spikes and a build-up of fatty plaques in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. A separate study, published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, linked erythritol (E968) to an increased risk of blood clots. And neotame was found to damage the lining of the intestine, which could lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or even sepsis. It doesn't matter if a drink features beneficial ingredients - if it is very high in sugar, I would get the same nutrients from food sources Lucia Stansbie Lucia says that for her, the most problematic artificial sweeteners are aspartame and sucralose. 'They are linked to disruption of the gut microbiome (the bacteria that live within your gut), headaches and metabolic dysfunction,' she adds. Better alternatives to look out for in your energy drinks, she says, are steve and monk fruit, both of which are natural. 'The sweetener erythritol sits in the middle,' Lucia says. 'It's not totally bad but it can cause gastric distress in excessive quantities. 'People suffering from diabetes and pre-diabetes should be particularly careful with sweeteners and the 'zero sugar' labels as they can still impact insulin metabolism.' She adds that those with specific neurological sensitivities such as ADHD or chronic migraines should be particularly careful as sweeteners can exacerbate symptoms. 9 TAURINE YOU might see 'taurine' on the ingredients list of your energy drink and think, 'What's that?' Well it is one of 20 amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. We naturally make taurine and also get it from foods such as meat. 'On its own, taurine is not usually an issue, and may even support heart and brain health,' says Raquel. 'But when combined with high caffeine and other stimulants, it's a lot for the nervous system to handle, especially in large quantities or for younger people.' Lucia adds: 'Quantities above 3,000mg can cause vomiting, nausea, headaches, stomach pain and nervous system overstimulation. 'Consider that a Red Bull contains 1,000mg of taurine and that its stimulant effects are enhanced by caffeine.' 9 COLOURS AND PRESERVATIVES EVER wondered why your energy drink is so brightly coloured? It might be down to artificial colourings, such as E102 (yellow), E129 (red) and E133 (blue). 'These are linked to hyperactivity, allergies and potentially neurotoxicity,' Lucia says. 'I would check for healthier alternatives like natural colourings from beet juice, spirulina or turmeric.' A 2004 analysis of 15 studies concluded that 'widely distributed' artificial food dyes can increase hyperactivity in kids. Further research by scientists at Virginia Commonwealth University found animals given high doses of E132 (blue 2) had significantly more brain tumours than the control groups. And a study published in Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology found male rats given E127 (red 3) had an increased risk of thyroid tumours. These tests were done on animals, and further research is needed on the potential dangers for humans. However, products containing the following artificial colours must carry a warning on the packaging in the UK: Sunset yellow FCF (E110) Quinoline yellow (E104) Carmoisine (E122) Allura red (E129) Tartrazine (E102) Ponceau 4R (E124) This will say: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' As for preservatives, which are added to energy drinks to help them last longer, Raquel says sodium benzoate can cause issues for some people, 'especially when combined with certain vitamins like C'. Research published in the Scientific World Journal found that the higher the concentration of sodium benzoate, the more free radicals are created. These can damage your cells, increasing your risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer's, scientists say. Where possible, choose an energy drink with minimal preservatives. Citric acid or vitamin C are better options, Lucia says. 9 THE 'GOOD' INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR ALTHOUGH there are lots of ingredients to be wary of, there are also plenty that can offer health benefits. 'Adaptogens (natural substances that help the body adapt to stress) like ashwagandha can help mitigate the caffeine spike,' says Lucia. Raquel adds: 'Electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium are great if you're sweating a lot or need hydration support, and B vitamins support energy production.' Vitamin C is also great as it supports the immune system and helps to maintain healthy skin and bones. But, regardless of any 'healthy' ingredients, Lucia warns: 'I will always be mindful of the sugar content. 'It doesn't matter if a drink features all the beneficial ingredients above - if it is very high in sugar, I would still discharge it and get the same nutrients from food sources.' Exactly what a single energy drink can do your body – minute by minute By Vanessa Chalmers, Assistant Head of Health YOU may be familiar with the surge in alertness after drinking an energy drink, but there are half a dozen things that happen to the body over several hours thanks to the caffeine and sugar hit. Data from gift site Personalise reveals exactly what happens to the body, hour-by-hour, after you finish a can, and even 12 days later. It was created using information from sources including the UK's National Health Service (NHS), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and energy drink manufacturer Red Bull. It may make you re-think your habit, and re-assess whether the highs and lows of energy are worth it for a quick hit. First 10 minutes That's the time the caffeine begins to enter the bloodstream, causing your heart rate and blood pressure to rise. Previous research has looked at the impact of energy drinks on the blood pressure and hearts of young people. One small study found that people who drank one litre of energy drinks in an hour had abnormal electrical activity in their hearts and higher blood pressure four hours later. 15-45 minutes This is the time caffeine level peaks, making you feel alert and improving concentration. 30-50 minutes By now, all of the caffeine has been absorbed and your liver will often react by absorbing more sugar. 1 hour This is when you are likely to get the 'sugar crash' - when your blood sugar and caffeine level drops - and you may feel tired. 5-6 hours Roughly five to six hours after consumption your body will have reduced the caffeine content in your bloodstream by 50 per cent. 12 hours Around 12 hours after finishing an energy drink, the caffeine will be out of most people's bloodstreams, but it does vary due to age and activity. 12-24 hours If you have been drinking energy drinks regularly, between 12 and 24 hours is the time you'll start to feel withdrawal symptoms. You may suffer from headaches, irritability and constipation. 7-12 days Studies have shown this is the time it takes the body to become tolerant of your daily caffeine dosage. This means if you keep the level the same, you are unlikely to feel any effects at this point.
The Sun
27-04-2025
- Health
- The Sun
What's REALLY in your favourite energy drink? The harmful ingredients to avoid, and the ones nutritionists say are OK
WHETHER we need a 3pm pick-me-up or we're gearing up for a tough workout, many of us reach for an energy drink. But before you crack open your next can, you should know they come with several serious health risks. 9 Scientists have linked the caffeinated beverages to headaches, sleep problems and anxiety, as well as high blood pressure and kidney damage. Research has also found them to make heart issues and strokes more likely. And a study by Newcastle University even suggested they put children and young people at increased risk of drug taking, violence and suicidal thoughts. Despite these warnings, the UK energy and sports drink market is worth around £3.1billion, with under-18s guzzling more cans than those in any other European country. But are all energy drinks bad? And is it ever OK to consume them? Raquel Britzke, a nutritionist at Doctify, tells Sun Health: 'They can have a place if used occasionally and thoughtfully, like before a long drive or a workout. 'But the issue with energy drinks is when they're used daily, or worse, multiple times a day. 'I see clients all the time who rely on them to get through the day, which usually signals something else - such as poor sleep, high stress and not enough nourishment from food.' If you're going to have an energy drink, limit yourself to one small (250ml) can per day. 'Drinking more than that and you risk poor sleep, anxiety, jitteriness, headaches or even heart palpitations,' Raquel adds. The dangers of energy drinks 'Long term, it can impact blood pressure, blood sugar and overall stress on the body.' While some energy drinks contain various 'healthy' ingredients, many do not. From high doses of caffeine to health-harming preservatives, these are the ones to look out for… CAFFEINE CAFFEINE is a natural stimulant, and probably why you reach for an energy drink in the first place. It increases the activity of the brain and central nervous system, helping you to stay alert. Around 400 milligrams (mg) in separate sittings is considered safe for most adults, according to the European Food Safety Authority. A large cup of coffee contains around 80mg, but Lucia Stansbie, nutritional therapist and founder of Food Power Nutrition, warns that some energy drinks, particularly those imported from abroad, can carry up to 300mg. 9 'Too much caffeine can trigger the nervous system, increasing agitation and anxiety,' she says. 'Consuming this during the day can also impact sleep quality, as well as having a dehydrating effect because caffeine is a diuretic.' Raquel says it's best to consume a maximum of 150mg of caffeine per drink. Do one better and look for caffeine from natural sources. 'Caffeine from sources such as green tea or yerba matcha is usually better tolerated, and often paired with other beneficial compounds such as L-theanine (in green tea), which has a calming effect and reduces the jittery impact,' she says. 'But it's still caffeine, so the dose matters more than the source.' SUGAR AS well as the caffeine, some energy drinks pack in serious amounts of sugar. 'An average can contains 20g to 50g of sugar,' says Lucia. 'For context, a doughnut contains around 20g.' But what's the danger? 'Sugar can spike your blood sugar, which is then followed by a crash that leaves you feeling even more tired and craving more sugar or caffeine,' says Raquel. There is plenty of research demonstrating just how harmful sugar can be. A review in the journal Nutrients, for example, found that people who drank high amounts of sugar-sweetened drinks were more prone to weight gain. They also had a higher risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A separate study by the University of Washington found women who consumed more than one sugary drink per day were five times more likely to get mouth cancer than those who drink less than one a month. The NHS recommends no more than 30g of added sugar a day for adults. Check the label of your energy drink, as sugar comes under various names, such as sucrose, high fructose corn syrup and glucose. 'If your energy drink has more than 10g to 15g of sugar per serving, it is to be considered a high sugar drink which is best not to consume regularly,' says Lucia. ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS IT'S not uncommon to see artificial sweeteners added to energy drinks. Many of the zero sugar varieties get their super sweet taste from ingredients like aspartame, sucralose and acesulfame K. Although they are lower in calories, it doesn't mean they are healthy. In fact, artificial sweeteners have come under serious fire in recent years. Research published in the journal Cureus concluded they can negatively impact your gut, brain and heart. Scientists at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden found aspartame may trigger insulin spikes and a build-up of fatty plaques in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. A separate study, published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, linked erythritol (E968) to an increased risk of blood clots. And neotame was found to damage the lining of the intestine, which could lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or even sepsis. It doesn't matter if a drink features beneficial ingredients - if it is very high in sugar, I would get the same nutrients from food sources Lucia StansbieNutritional therapist Lucia says that for her, the most problematic artificial sweeteners are aspartame and sucralose. 'They are linked to disruption of the gut microbiome (the bacteria that live within your gut), headaches and metabolic dysfunction,' she adds. Better alternatives to look out for in your energy drinks, she says, are steve and monk fruit, both of which are natural. 'The sweetener erythritol sits in the middle,' Lucia says. 'It's not totally bad but it can cause gastric distress in excessive quantities. 'People suffering from diabetes and pre-diabetes should be particularly careful with sweeteners and the 'zero sugar' labels as they can still impact insulin metabolism.' She adds that those with specific neurological sensitivities such as ADHD or chronic migraines should be particularly careful as sweeteners can exacerbate symptoms. TAURINE YOU might see ' taurine ' on the ingredients list of your energy drink and think, 'What's that?' Well it is one of 20 amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. We naturally make taurine and also get it from foods such as meat. 'On its own, taurine is not usually an issue, and may even support heart and brain health,' says Raquel. 'But when combined with high caffeine and other stimulants, it's a lot for the nervous system to handle, especially in large quantities or for younger people.' Lucia adds: 'Quantities above 3,000mg can cause vomiting, nausea, headaches, stomach pain and nervous system overstimulation. 'Consider that a Red Bull contains 1,000mg of taurine and that its stimulant effects are enhanced by caffeine.' 9 COLOURS AND PRESERVATIVES EVER wondered why your energy drink is so brightly coloured? It might be down to artificial colourings, such as E102 (yellow), E129 (red) and E133 (blue). 'These are linked to hyperactivity, allergies and potentially neurotoxicity,' Lucia says. 'I would check for healthier alternatives like natural colourings from beet juice, spirulina or turmeric.' A 2004 analysis of 15 studies concluded that 'widely distributed' artificial food dyes can increase hyperactivity in kids. Further research by scientists at Virginia Commonwealth University found animals given high doses of E132 (blue 2) had significantly more brain tumours than the control groups. And a study published in Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology found male rats given E127 (red 3) had an increased risk of thyroid tumours. These tests were done on animals, and further research is needed on the potential dangers for humans. However, products containing the following artificial colours must carry a warning on the packaging in the UK: Sunset yellow FCF (E110) Quinoline yellow (E104) Carmoisine (E122) Allura red (E129) Tartrazine (E102) Ponceau 4R (E124) This will say: 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.' As for preservatives, which are added to energy drinks to help them last longer, Raquel says sodium benzoate can cause issues for some people, 'especially when combined with certain vitamins like C'. Research published in the Scientific World Journal found that the higher the concentration of sodium benzoate, the more free radicals are created. These can damage your cells, increasing your risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer's, scientists say. Where possible, choose an energy drink with minimal preservatives. Citric acid or vitamin C are better options, Lucia says. THE 'GOOD' INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR ALTHOUGH there are lots of ingredients to be wary of, there are also plenty that can offer health benefits. 'Adaptogens (natural substances that help the body adapt to stress) like ashwagandha can help mitigate the caffeine spike,' says Lucia. Raquel adds: 'Electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium are great if you're sweating a lot or need hydration support, and B vitamins support energy production.' Vitamin C is also great as it supports the immune system and helps to maintain healthy skin and bones. But, regardless of any 'healthy' ingredients, Lucia warns: 'I will always be mindful of the sugar content. 'It doesn't matter if a drink features all the beneficial ingredients above - if it is very high in sugar, I would still discharge it and get the same nutrients from food sources.' Exactly what a single energy drink can do your body – minute by minute By Vanessa Chalmers, Assistant Head of Health YOU may be familiar with the surge in alertness after drinking an energy drink, but there are half a dozen things that happen to the body over several hours thanks to the caffeine and sugar hit. Data from gift site Personalise reveals exactly what happens to the body, hour-by-hour, after you finish a can, and even 12 days later. It was created using information from sources including the UK's National Health Service (NHS), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and energy drink manufacturer Red Bull. It may make you re-think your habit, and re-assess whether the highs and lows of energy are worth it for a quick hit. First 10 minutes That's the time the caffeine begins to enter the bloodstream, causing your heart rate and blood pressure to rise. Previous research has looked at the impact of energy drinks on the blood pressure and hearts of young people. One small study found that people who drank one litre of energy drinks in an hour had abnormal electrical activity in their hearts and higher blood pressure four hours later. 15-45 minutes This is the time caffeine level peaks, making you feel alert and improving concentration. 30-50 minutes By now, all of the caffeine has been absorbed and your liver will often react by absorbing more sugar. 1 hour This is when you are likely to get the 'sugar crash' - when your blood sugar and caffeine level drops - and you may feel tired. 5-6 hours Roughly five to six hours after consumption your body will have reduced the caffeine content in your bloodstream by 50 per cent. 12 hours Around 12 hours after finishing an energy drink, the caffeine will be out of most people's bloodstreams, but it does vary due to age and activity. 12-24 hours If you have been drinking energy drinks regularly, between 12 and 24 hours is the time you'll start to feel withdrawal symptoms. You may suffer from headaches, irritability and constipation. 7-12 days Studies have shown this is the time it takes the body to become tolerant of your daily caffeine dosage. This means if you keep the level the same, you are unlikely to feel any effects at this point. 9
CBS News
12-04-2025
- Health
- CBS News
Faith and family: A journey through kidney transplant and living donation
While most people are born with two kidneys, only one is needed to function. In 2013, Aaron Payne, a healthy athlete and father of three, learned that a rare condition caused both of his kidneys to stop working properly. Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) causes scarring that damages the kidney and affects about seven out of every million people each year, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Though there are different causes of FSGS, including genetics or another disease, Aaron said there was no clear cause for his diagnosis. "The diagnosis was FSGS, and it is, there's no cause, there's no rhyme or reason for it, it's not genetic," he said. Once diagnosed, there was an immediate impact, and Aaron was just days away from needing dialysis. Aaron and his wife Raquel said it was clear to doctors that he would need a transplant. They were shocked, but as the demands of balancing their busy lives, careers, and young family set in, the couple decided to lean on their faith and push forward. "[We decided to] turn it over, pray on it and know that God had his hand on it," Aaron said. With more than 100,000 people across the U.S. on the transplant list for a life-saving donation, the wait for a spot on that list could be long. They considered living donor donation, but as friends and family came forward to test, no one was a match. Though the couple was concerned about the potential risks that could come with surgery, Raquel decided to test. "[I said], you're not leaving me with these babies and checking out anytime soon, so I'm going to go get the test," she said, chuckling. It can be unusual for a husband and wife to be a transplant match because several factors are required, including blood and tissue type, organ size, and general health. In this case, the couple learned they were compatible, and Aaron received the life-saving kidney donation from his wife. "We were both shocked when they revealed how perfect of a match [Raquel] was [and] having the opportunity to get that living donor donation happen when it did was precisely on God's timing," Aaron said. "So now we celebrate two anniversaries. We celebrate transplant day, which is September 18, and then we celebrate our marriage anniversary, which is October 18," added Raquel. While living donor donations have increased across the country in recent years, with a consistent demand for organ donations, Aaron and Raquel hope to raise awareness about the benefits of living donor donations. Living donor donations are less common in communities of color, though medical research shows Black and Hispanic candidates often account for a larger portion of the national kidney transplant list. Aaron and Raquel hope their story encourages others to consider becoming living donors. "We need to bring awareness and everyone needs to be cognizant of the fact that there are people out there, the kidney is one thing you can donate while you are still alive," said Raquel. "No matter the scenario, God is in control," said Aaron.
