NEW DELHI: Energy drinks, marketed as instant vitality in a can, are the newest craze sweeping young India. But behind every fizzy sip lurks silent liver damage. On World liver day, liver specialists are reporting a surge in cases linked to overconsumption, raising concern about a growing health risk among the nation’s youth.Doctors cite clinical experience and global evidence. A case in BMJ Case Reports linked excessive energy drink intake to acute hepatitis due to high doses of niacin (Vitamin B3), known to be hepatotoxic in excess. Experts say the mix of sugar, caffeine and additives promotes fat build-up in liver cells, oxidative stress and inflammation, raising 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 beverages are the main contributors,” said Dr. Abhideep Chaudhary, President, Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI). “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.”India is witnessing a rise in NAFLD, affecting an estimated 25–30% of the urban population, including young adults. High intake of sugary beverages is a key driver, and doctors say energy drinks are worsening the trend.“We are witnessing a demographic shift, with patients in their 20s and 30s presenting earlier,” said Dr. Neerav Goyal, President-Elect, LTSI, and Head, Liver Transplant, Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi. “Alcohol remains a major factor, but energy drinks and sugary beverages are adding to the burden.”Experts also warn against mixing energy drinks with alcohol, as caffeine can mask its sedative effects, leading to higher intake and increased toxicity.“Lifestyle choices are directly impacting liver health at a younger age,” said Dr. Charles Panackel, Secretary, LTSI, and Senior Consultant, Hepatology, Aster Medcity, Kochi. “Continuous exposure leads from fatty liver to inflammation, fibrosis and even cirrhosis. Early-stage disease is often reversible.”“Frequent intake of energy drinks is an under-recognized risk,” said Dr. Naveen Ganjoo, Governing Council – Adult Hepatology, LTSI, and Senior Consultant, Hepatology & Integrated Liver Care, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru.Experts have called for stronger awareness and lifestyle changes, stressing that cutting back on energy drinks, alcohol and sugary beverages is key to prevention.
