Energy drinks are a 10 billion dollar industry in the US and are projected to grow exponentially as time goes on. The target market appears to be teenagers and college students, for whom Rockstar is marketed. However, I see consumers of all ages and types drinking these beverages everywhere I look. This concentrated supply of caffeine and energy gives people the boost they seek to get through the day. But is Rockstar seriously serving them? Is this drink healthy?

Here I will discuss the main ingredients that you should be familiar with at Rockstar:

– Artificial Caffeine Content: Rockstar has 160mg of artificial caffeine in each and every can. To put this in perspective, a can of soda only offers about 35mg of caffeine.

– Milk thistle: The idea behind this ingredient is that it will possibly reduce the intensity of the hangover by allowing the liver to digest the alcohol sooner. There is no telling if this actually works. Milk thistle also has little antioxidant value.

– High in sugar: There are actually 140 calories and 31 grams of sugar in a single can of Rockstar Energy Drinks!

– Ginseng and Ginkgo: Herbs to stimulate energy. Allergy symptoms and upset stomach are possible with these herbs, but they are safe for many consumers.

– Guarana: Commonly used in weight loss pills, this South American herb promotes energy, but can cause serious side effects if consumed in large amounts. Side effects may include nausea, headache, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and anxiety. Do not take with aspirin as it may possibly increase the chance of bleeding.

– Rockstar energy drink also contains numerous synthetic components.

Due to the high caffeine and sugar content, Rockstar is simply not safe to ingest in large amounts. In case you have any of these conditions: diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or hypertension, then this drink is actually an exceptionally poor option for you. In general, brand name energy drinks, including Rockstar, are not a healthy way to get energy.

These drinks, with their harsh stimuli and high doses of sugar, can give you not only a “jitters” every time you consume them, but also cause you to crash soon after, leaving you much more exhausted than before. Moderating caffeine in your diet is undoubtedly essential to avoid becoming addicted to these products. Parents please limit caffeinated energy drinks consumed by teens… With current Red Bull bans in Norway, Denmark, Uruguay and Iceland, we need to be careful what we drink!