Energy drinks linked to rising liver damage in young Indians, warn doctors | India News
New Delhi: Energy drinks, marketed as instant vitality in a can, are the newest craze in young India. But behind every fizzy sip lurks silent liver damage. On World Liver Day, liver experts reported a rise in cases linked to excess consumption, raising concerns about the growing health risks among the country’s youth.Physicians cite clinical experience and global evidence. A case in point BMJ Case Report Excessive energy drink consumption has been linked to acute hepatitis due to high levels of niacin (vitamin B3), which is known to be excessively hepatotoxic. Experts say the combination of sugar, caffeine and additives can cause liver cells to build up fat, promote oxidative stress and inflammation, which increases the risk of long-term damage including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).“Over the past few years, we have seen a significant increase in young patients with liver dysfunction. Energy drinks, alcohol and high-sugar drinks are major contributors,” said Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, President, Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI). “Often seen as harmful, these drinks put a lot of stress on the liver. When combined with alcohol or consumed in excess, they accelerate injury. If damage progresses, replacement may be the only life-saving option.”India is witnessing a rise in NAFLD, affecting an estimated 25-30% of the urban population, including young adults. High consumption of sugary drinks is a key driver, and doctors say energy drinks are exacerbating the trend.“We are witnessing a demographic shift, with patients in their 20s and 30s appearing earlier,” said Dr. Nirav Goel, President-Elect, LTSI, and Head, Liver Transplant, Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi. “Alcohol remains a major factor, but energy drinks and sugary drinks are adding to the burden.”Experts also warn against mixing energy drinks with alcohol, as caffeine can mask its healing effects, leading to higher intake and increased toxicity.“Lifestyle choices have a direct impact on liver health at an early age,” says Dr Charles Pannakel, Secretary, LTSI, and Senior Consultant, Hepatology, Aster Medcity, Kochi. “Continuous exposure leads to inflammation, fibrosis and even cirrhosis from fatty liver. Early-stage disease is often reversible.”“Repeated consumption of energy drinks is a recognized risk,” says Dr Navin Ganju, Governing Council – Adult Hepatology, LTSI, and Senior Consultant, Hepatology and Integrated Liver Care, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru.Experts call for stronger awareness and lifestyle changes, stressing that cutting down on energy drinks, alcohol and sugary drinks is key to prevention.
