Energy drinks are a $10 billion industry in the US and are projected to grow exponentially as time goes on. The target market seems 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 you should be familiar with in Rockstar:

– Artificial Caffeine Content: Rockstar has 160mg of artificial caffeine in each and every can. To put this into 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 a hangover by allowing the liver to digest the alcohol sooner. Can’t tell if this really works. Milk thistle also has a small antioxidant value.

– High sugar content: 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 stomach upset are possible with these herbs, but they are safe for many users.

– Guarana: Commonly found in weight-loss pills, this South American herb promotes energy, but can cause significant side effects if consumed in large amounts. Side effects can include nausea, headache, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and anxiety. Do not take with aspirin because it can 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, this drink is actually an exceptionally poor choice for you. In general, brand name energy drinks, including Rockstar, are not a healthy way to get energy.

These drinks, with their harsh stimulants and high doses of sugar, can not only give you a “jitter” every time you consume them, but will 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 teenagers… With the current bans on Red Bull in Norway, Denmark, Uruguay and Iceland, we need to be careful what we drink!