Adverse Effects of Excessive Use of Some Beverages on Male Albino Rats

Beverages are non-alcoholic drinks designed to induce stimulation by the addition of active compounds, particularly high levels of caffeine. They are currently promoted as agents that boost energy (both mental and physical capabilities), This study aims to assess the side effects of energy drinks, such as Red Bull and Red Strong, on numerous physiological parameters and histological characteristics of the liver and kidney in male albino rats. Fifteen rats were allotted into three groups: group (1) consumed distilled water as the control group, group (2) drank Red Strong energy, and group (3) drank Red Bull energy, administered orally by gavage once a day for 8 weeks, with each group receiving 2.0 mL/100 g of body weight in the energy drink. The outcome shows that the body weight gain increased significantly induced in high long-term energy drinking groups and elevated the liver function enzymes, including alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, total serum bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase. Furthermore, it adversely affects renal function through increased urea, creatinine, uric acid, and decreased glomerular filtration rates. Furthermore, adverse influences on reproduction organs by a decline in testosterone and sperm properties. Histological studies showed alteration structure in energy-drinking groups such as degenerative kidney tubules, hemorrhage, shrinkage of the glomerulus and the dilated sinusoid, degenerative hepatocyte, and inflammation in the liver. The presented study showed that the high consumption of beverages (Red Strong and Red Bull) have adverse effects on the liver and kidneys of male albino rats.