World Heart Day: IPB University Doctor Warns of the Dangers of Excessive Energy Drink Consumption

A lecturer from the Faculty of Medicine at IPB University, dr Christy Efiyanti, SpPD, FINASIM, warns that excessive consumption of energy drinks can be a “time bomb” for heart health, especially among young people. She delivered this warning in conjunction with World Heart Day, commemorated every September 29.

World Heart Day serves as an important reminder that heart disease is no longer just a threat to the elderly. Modern lifestyle patterns  from excessive energy drink consumption, staying up late, to lack of exercise are increasingly putting the younger generation at risk.

dr Christy explained that cases of heart failure linked to energy drink consumption are not new. This phenomenon has been reported in various countries, including Indonesia, along with the rising trend of using energy drinks to boost stamina for work and daily activities.

“In one case, a 21 year old patient suffered heart failure after routinely consuming four cans of energy drinks every day. High amounts of caffeine can trigger heart rhythm disturbances that may lead to heart failure if not promptly treated,” she explained.

She emphasized that this risk can affect anyone, and therefore, energy drink labels should carry clear warnings about potential heart hazards when consumed excessively.

Furthermore, dr Christy highlighted that the combination of poor lifestyle habits among young people such as staying up late, consuming fast food, smoking or vaping, and lack of exercise further increases the risk of heart problems.

“Regular exercise is often considered a cliché, but in reality, it is the true lifesaver. With exercise, we can maintain heart function while also preventing sarcopenia and osteoporosis in old age,” she stressed.

According to her, maintaining quality of life should begin with simple but consistent habits: eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, drinking enough water, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, preventing obesity, and not smoking.

“There is no bargaining when it comes to healthy living. It is a lifelong investment to keep the heart strong, the liver healthy, and the body free from chronic diseases,” dr Christy concluded. (AS) (IAAS/RAS)