Energy drink habit suspected in man's heart problems

There seems to be growing evidence of energy drinks possibly having a negative effect on the heart, finds a team of researchers from the University of Florida.

Their recently published paper profiles a 28-year-old man with no prior health problems who was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and rapid ventricular response causing abnormal heart rhythms.

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He admitted to drinking two Monster energy drinks in addition to two to three beers a day.

According to the study, after getting treatment, the man's heart function normalized, and one year later, he has reported no residual abnormalities.

As such, one of the authors of the paper states, "We believe that energy drink consumption played a key role."

The researchers point out that each Monster energy drink contains 160 milligrams of caffeine which is "four times higher than that of coffee."

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Although 400 milligrams is considered a safe daily maximum intake for healthy adults, the team suspects other additives in the beverage can exacerbate the negative health effects.

While the paper did not prove a causal relationship between energy drinks and heart problems, health professionals are advised to be aware a link could exist.