Energy drinks like Bloom and Celsius have become go-to choices for a quick boost, whether you’re powering through a workout or a long workday. With their sleek cans and promises of enhanced focus and metabolism, it’s tempting to make them a daily habit. But what are the potential side effects of sipping these drinks every day? Let’s dive into the science and real-world insights to explore what daily consumption of Bloom (180 mg caffeine per can) and Celsius (200–270 mg caffeine per can) might mean for your health.
Short-Term Side Effects: The Immediate Buzz
Energy drinks deliver a jolt, but that surge comes with potential downsides, especially when consumed daily. Here’s what you might notice:
1. Caffeine Overload
Both Bloom and Celsius pack a serious caffeine punch—180 mg and 200–270 mg per can, respectively. For context, the FDA recommends capping daily caffeine at 400 mg for most adults. One can might not push you over the edge, but combining it with coffee or tea could lead to:
- Jitters and Anxiety: That shaky, nervous feeling is common, especially if you’re caffeine-sensitive. Studies suggest doses above 200 mg in one go can trigger this in some people.
- Racing Heart or High Blood Pressure: Caffeine can spike your heart rate and blood pressure temporarily, which might feel uncomfortable or risky if you have heart issues.
- Sleep Trouble: Drinking these later in the day could keep you tossing and turning. Insomnia is a real issue with daily caffeine intake.
2. Tummy Troubles
About 22% of energy drink users report stomach issues, and Bloom and Celsius are no exception. Here’s why:
- Nausea or Bloating: Ingredients like caffeine, artificial sweeteners (sucralose in both drinks), or Bloom’s apple cider vinegar can irritate your stomach.
- Diarrhea or Frequent Urination: Caffeine acts as a diuretic, increasing urine output and potentially causing dehydration if you’re not drinking enough water. Bloom’s prebiotic fiber (1 gram of galactomannan per can) might also cause mild gas or bloating for some.
- Headaches: Around 18% of users experience headaches, possibly from caffeine’s effect on blood vessels or dehydration.
3. Dehydration Risk
Caffeine’s diuretic effect can leave you parched, especially if you’re sipping these during exercise or in hot weather. Without enough water, you might feel sluggish or dizzy.
Long-Term Side Effects: The Bigger Picture
Daily energy drinks might seem harmless, but over time, they can take a toll. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Heart Health Concerns
- Irregular Heart Rhythms: Regular high caffeine intake has been linked to palpitations or, in rare cases, serious issues like arrhythmias. Those with heart conditions should be extra cautious.
- Chronic High Blood Pressure: Daily doses of 180–270 mg of caffeine (plus other sources) can stress your cardiovascular system, potentially leading to hypertension.
2. Metabolic and Weight Issues
- Blood Sugar Spikes: Both drinks use sucralose, which is generally safe but may affect insulin sensitivity over time, raising the risk of type 2 diabetes. This is a bigger concern if you’re drinking multiple cans or have diabetes.
- Weight Gain Myths: Marketed as “low-calorie” (10 calories per can), these drinks won’t directly pack on pounds. But the World Health Organization notes that artificial sweeteners don’t guarantee weight loss, and pairing them with a sedentary lifestyle could still lead to weight gain.
3. Kidney and Liver Risks
- Kidney Strain: Chronic high caffeine intake has been tied to rare cases of kidney issues, like acute kidney injury.
- Liver Concerns: Green tea extract (found in both drinks) can, in high doses, stress the liver, though the amounts in Bloom and Celsius are likely too low to cause harm.
4. Dental Damage
The acidic nature of energy drinks, even with minimal sugar, can erode tooth enamel over time, leading to cavities or sensitivity.
5. Caffeine Dependency
Drinking 180–270 mg of caffeine daily can hook you. Skip a day, and you might face withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or crankiness.
6. Mental Health Impacts
Daily energy drinks may worsen anxiety or mood disorders. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders even recognizes caffeine-induced psychiatric issues as a potential concern.
Spotlight on Bloom and Celsius
Let’s break down what makes these drinks unique and how their ingredients play into side effects:
- Bloom:
- Caffeine: 180 mg from green coffee bean extract and guarana—moderate but still potent.
- Unique Ingredients: Prebiotics, apple cider vinegar, and ginger aim to support digestion but may cause mild bloating or gas in sensitive folks. The vinegar dose is likely too small for significant benefits.
- Sweetener: Sucralose keeps it low-calorie but may not vibe with those avoiding artificial sweeteners.
- Celsius:
- Caffeine: 200–270 mg per can, closer to the daily limit, increasing the risk of side effects.
- Extras: Taurine and glucuronolactone might amplify caffeine’s effects, potentially leading to overstimulation or metabolic changes.
- Claims: Marketed as a metabolism booster, but studies show minimal benefits without exercise or dietary changes.
Who Should Be Cautious?
Some groups are more vulnerable to side effects:
- Caffeine-Sensitive Folks: Even one can might trigger jitters or heart palpitations.
- Heart Condition Sufferers: Arrhythmias or high blood pressure make daily energy drinks risky.
- Pregnant or Nursing Women: Stick to 200 mg of caffeine daily—one Celsius can might push you over.
- Kids and Teens: Energy drinks aren’t recommended due to potential behavioral or developmental risks.
- People on Medications: Caffeine can interact with antidepressants, anti-anxiety meds, or blood thinners.
Real-World Insights
User reports from consumers highlight mixed experiences:
- Celsius: Some users love the energy but report issues like high blood pressure or muscle cramping after daily use. These could stem from individual health conditions or overconsumption.
- Bloom: Fans praise its smoother buzz and taste, but some find it too sweet or note mild digestive effects.
Tips for Safe Sipping
If you love your daily Bloom or Celsius, here’s how to minimize risks:
- Stick to One Can: Keep caffeine under 400 mg daily and avoid stacking with other sources like coffee.
- Stay Hydrated: Pair your drink with plenty of water to counter dehydration.
- Time It Right: Avoid late-day consumption to protect your sleep.
- Listen to Your Body: If you feel jittery, have a racing heart, or get stomach issues, cut back or talk to a doctor.
- Consider Alternatives: Plain coffee or tea has fewer additives and might be a cleaner energy source. Better yet, prioritize sleep, diet, and exercise for natural energy.
The Bottom Line
Drinking Bloom or Celsius daily can be safe in moderation for healthy adults, but the caffeine (180–270 mg per can) and ingredients like sucralose or green tea extract come with risks. Short-term, you might face jitters, stomach upset, or sleep issues. Long-term, watch for heart strain, metabolic changes, or dependency. If you’ve got health conditions or notice odd symptoms, consult a doctor before making these drinks a staple.
Want to dive deeper into specific ingredients or compare these to other energy drinks? Drop a comment below!
