Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 20: Energy drinks, widely marketed as a quick source of vitality, are fast gaining popularity among young Indians. However, medical experts have raised concerns that excessive consumption may be contributing to a surge in liver-related health issues.
On World Liver Day, liver specialists highlighted a growing number of cases linked to overconsumption of energy drinks, warning of a potential public health risk among the youth.
Doctors pointed to clinical observations and global evidence supporting these concerns. A case published in BMJ Case Reports linked excessive intake of energy drinks to acute hepatitis, attributing it to high doses of niacin (Vitamin B3), which can be toxic to the liver when consumed in excess.
Experts explained that the combination of sugar, caffeine and additives in these beverages promotes fat accumulation in liver cells, oxidative stress and inflammation, increasing the risk of long-term damage such as Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Dr Abhideep Chaudhary, president of the Liver Transplantation Society of India, said there has been a noticeable rise in young patients with liver dysfunction.
“Over the past few years, we have seen a significant increase in young patients with liver dysfunction. Energy drinks, alcohol and high-sugar beverages are the main contributors. Often seen as harmless, these drinks place immense stress on the liver. When combined with alcohol or consumed excessively, they accelerate injury. If damage progresses, transplant may become the only life-saving option,” he said.
India is witnessing a sharp rise in NAFLD, now affecting an estimated 25 to 30 per cent of the urban population, including young adults. Doctors say high intake of sugary beverages, including energy drinks, is a key factor driving this trend.
Dr Neerav Goyal, president-elect of LTSI and head of liver transplant and hepatobiliary surgery at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, noted a demographic shift in patients.
“We are witnessing a demographic shift, with patients in their 20s and 30s presenting earlier. Alcohol remains a major factor, but energy drinks and sugary beverages are adding to the burden,” he said.
Experts also cautioned against mixing energy drinks with alcohol, as caffeine can mask its sedative effects, leading to higher consumption and increased toxicity.
Dr Charles Panackel, secretary of LTSI and senior consultant at Aster Medcity, warned that lifestyle habits are impacting liver health at a younger age.
“Continuous exposure leads from fatty liver to inflammation, fibrosis and even cirrhosis. Early-stage disease is often reversible,” he said.
Dr Naveen Ganjoo, governing council member for adult hepatology at LTSI and senior consultant at Aster RV Hospital, added that frequent intake of energy drinks remains an under-recognised risk.
Experts have called for greater awareness and lifestyle changes, stressing that reducing consumption of energy drinks, alcohol and sugary beverages is essential to prevent liver damage.