In the French media, a warning recently hit the headlines: according to some specialists, consuming three cans of energy drinks could be enough to trigger cardiac arrest in sensitive contexts. This warning, relayed by Le Parisien in particular, prompted cardiologists and addictologists to question the little-known dangers of these so-called “boosters”.
The underlying mechanism: caffeine, taurine and overstimulation
Energy drinks contain high doses of caffeine, often between 80 and 300 mg per can, combined with other stimulants such as taurine, guarana or glucuronolactone. When present in high doses, these ingredients can hyperstimulate the cardiovascular system, raising blood pressure, accelerating heart rate and altering the electrical rhythm of the heart (arrhythmias).
A study published in the USA analyzed 144 survivors of cardiac arrest: among them, 7 (or 5%) had recently consumed energy drinks. Although this link does not prove formal causality, it does alert us to a worrying temporal association, particularly in individuals at latent cardiac risk.
In France, doctors and health authorities are recommending vigilance, particularly for people with heart disease, high blood pressure or genetic predisposition.
Three cans: why this threshold?
The figure of three cans often comes up in media debates because, according to specialists, it represents a high stimulating load for the heart, especially when consumed in a very short space of time.
- At this level, the body can be overwhelmed by the combined effect of caffeine, taurine and sugar – leading to a “metabolic storm”.
- Effects on heart rhythm (palpitations, tachycardia, extrasystoles) may be aggravated when the individual is tired, dehydrated or exposed to intense stress
- In people who are already fragile or have undiagnosed cardiac abnormalities, this dosage can trigger a serious arrhythmia or even cardiac arrest.
However, studies show that the absolute risk remains low for a general population, but becomes worrying for people at risk who are often silent.
What symptoms to look out for
The warning signs may be discreet, but it is essential to be aware of them:
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeats
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness, vertigo
- Shortness of breath, sudden fatigue
If these symptoms appear after ingesting energy drinks, it’s crucial to seek prompt medical attention.
Regulations, prevention and liability
At present, regulations governing energy drinks (warnings, caffeine content limits, bans on minors) are being discussed in various countries to limit their excessive consumption. In France, consumers are encouraged to respect certain rules:
- Do not drink before or during physical exertion
- Do not consume in hot weather or when dehydrated.
- Limit daily consumption
- Beware of mixing withalcohol, which multiplies cardiac and behavioral risks
Doctors urge caution, especially for the young, the frail or those with a history of heart disease, explaining that every dose counts, and that the accumulation of three cans close together can be dangerous.
MyLaserTabac: why does it concern us too?
Although MyLaserTabac is best known for combating addictions to tobacco, sugar, alcohol and cannabis, and for helping with stress management our mission is part of a global vision of health. The auricular laser stimulation which we use, aims to regulate the nervous system, reduce cravings and relieve stress – all factors which intersect with addiction mechanisms andcardiac excitability.
When someone is suffering from sugar or alcohol dependence, stimulant drinks can be a trap: combining stimulants with the physiological adaptations already required by withdrawal creates an imbalance. Our gentle, non-invasive, personalized approach helps to spare the body, reduce unnecessary urges and avoid excessive intensity.
Finally, talking about the dangers of energy drinks is part of our commitment to prevention: as with tobacco and alcohol, providing better information, alerting people to the risks, protecting the most vulnerable people – this is also our role as a holistic health player with MyLaserTabac .
