Hepatic & Renal Toxicity of Energy Drinks, a Serious Health Risk, Wistar Albino Rats Study

Abstract

The recent years have seen a significant increase in the individual consumption of energy drinks across the globe. As a result, notable concerns continue to rise both among the public and among the scientific community, concerning the health effects that energy drinks pose to individuals. This study therefore examines the adverse effects of energy drinks on health, using ten normal albino rats as specimens. The specimen was then divided into two groups consisting of five rats each, with one group was given energy drinks while the control group was given normal drinking water days for a period of 21 days. The specimen was then sacrificed and their blood samples used for biochemical and histological studies. The study findings reveal that energy drink consumption significantly increased the serum aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT), urea and creatinine levels when compared with the control group. In addition, the study demonstrates that energy drink consumption significantly decreased body weight and organ to body weight ratios when compared with the control group. The study further recognizes that the consumption of energy drink is associated with significant alterations in serum toxicity markers, bodyweight, organ body weight and histopathological changes. The study therefore recommends that need for public health education to educate individuals; especially youths about the risks of consuming highly caffeinated energy drinks. The study also recommends the need for further studies in order to minimize the harm excess and long-term consumption of energy drinks presented to the public.