Red Bull Nutrition Facts and Ingredient Information: Is Red Bull Healthy?

Introduction

The Red Bull company produces beverages that claim to give individuals increased energy and alertness. The slogan “Red Bull gives you wings” relates to the uplifting boost of energy consumers are said to receive after drinking the product. Red Bull produces original, sugar free, cola and shot versions of its popular beverage. Knowing what is in your beverage is half the battle. Understanding the Red Bull nutrition facts can help you decide whether you wish to consume the product.

Taurine

Taurine is one of the main ingredients in Red Bull energy drinks. Taurine is considered an antioxidant, as it helps to regulate the level of mineral salts and water in the bloodstream. Taurine is also found in meat, baby food and fish. Research on taurine reveals that consuming up to 3,000 mg a day is safe. However, any long-term side effects have yet to be researched thoroughly.

Caffeine

Another one of Red Bull’s main ingredients is caffeine. Caffeine is found in such products as soft drinks, coffee and other energy drinks. Caffeine has long been touted for its effects on mood and stamina. However, health officials are quick to warn of the potential side effects of a caffeine rich diet, which can include ailments like bone loss and heart disease. A can of original Red Bull contains 76.5 mg of caffeine.

Sucrose and Glucose

Glucose and sucrose are both forms of sugar. Both are known as simple carbohydrates, which means they immediately enter the bloodstream after being consumed. Simple carbohydrates create the illusion of an energy boost, but in actuality, it is a short-lived sugar high. The sucrose and glucose may cause you to become more fatigued after consuming them, as you eventually crash from the sugar high. One can of original Red Bull contains 26 g of sugar and 28 g of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

One can of original Red Bull, a 255-g serving, contains a total of 115 calories with 2 calories from fat. The beverage also contains 214 mg of sodium, otherwise known as salt, which represents 9 percent of the recommended daily value for a 2, 000-calorie diet. The drink also provides 1 gram of protein and 3 percent of the daily recommended intake of calcium. The beverage also serves up a limited amount of minerals including iron, magnesium, potassium and selenium.

Conclusion

While Red Bull is not typically considered a health beverage, many consumers drink it on a regular basis to fight fatigue and restlessness. Most consumers do not know about Red Bull nutrition facts and do not familiarize themselves with the main ingredients like taurine and caffeine. The ingredients listed support the energy claims; however, any effects remain marginal and short-lived. The potential side effects of each ingredient alone and in conjunction with each other is up for debate, as modern science has yet to develop and any concrete health-related drawbacks.

References

Red Bull: Red Bull Energy Drink

Self NutritionData: Energy Drink, RED BULL