The Influence of Energy Drinks on Lower Limb Neuromuscular Timing and Postural Sway in Healthy Young Adults

Abstract

Influence of Energy Drinks on Lower Limb Neuromuscu lar and Postural Sway in Abstract Energy drinks have become popular during the last few years. Many researchers explain the benefits the beverage has on sports or college settings. Other studies focused on the negative position of these drinks, such as reducing blood flow and balance alterations. Various modifications related to energy drink intake might be at a more system and physiological level, like the central nervous system and neuromuscular control. Purpose: This study aims to ascertain the influence of a standard 16-ounce energy drink on neuromuscular timing and standing postural compensation of young, healthy adults while performing a series of complex dual-motor tasks. Methods: Nine females and four males were recruited, screened, and signed the informed consent to be studied for this work. All participants were apparently healthy young adults with no underlying conditions that could potentially impact muscle activation and balance. The Tibialis anterior and Gastrocnemius neuromuscular timing data were collected with surface EMG electrodes. Accelerometers and gyroscopes were used to collect postural sway data. Subjects were asked to execute four balance tasks pre-energy drink consumption, and the same tasks were repeated post energy drink consumption to equate data points. Results: Postural Sway was comparable before and after energy drink intake. Neuromuscular timing data indicates modifications of nerve conduction on the Tibialis anterior and Gastrocnemius musculature. Conclusion: We infer that the ingredients in energy drinks, including guarana and B-vitamins, are altering nerve conduction velocity in postural muscles. Future studies should research the influence of energy drinks in different scenarios and different populations. most complex of the given tasks. Additionally, the Tibialis anterior showed more signs of adaptations to the effects of the energy drinks in comparison to the Gastrocnemius. We maintain the reduced cross-sectional ratio of the muscle compared to Gastrocnemius is why these results were shown. exploring or pathologies, including diabetic foot or HIV peripheral neuropathy of the Tibialis be to understanding the mechanisms behind this nerve conduction adaptation. with measures on neuromuscular activation and