A recent tragedy involving the death of a soldier has brought attention to an alarming trend among Ukrainian soldiers on the battlefronts. According to a report by The New York Times, the soldier was found in a bathroom with an energy drink called “Folia” in his hand. Despite suffering from heart disease, he had been consuming the energy drink for extended periods.
Many soldiers have spoken out about their reliance on energy drinks, which they consume at the beginning of their day, during patrols, and even before an attack. Energy drinks have become a vital source of strength and stamina, particularly when soldiers must endure long treks carrying heavy gear and facing extreme conditions. In fact, cans of these drinks can be seen everywhere on the battlefronts, with some soldiers even valuing them more than bread.
The consumption of energy drinks is not limited to soldiers on the frontlines alone. The civilian population in Ukraine has also turned to these drinks as a way to cope with constant missile attacks, stress, and sleep deprivation. Sales of energy drinks in Ukraine have surged since the start of the war, indicating that there is a growing demand for energy sources amidst challenging circumstances.
Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and other additives like taurine, vitamin B12, and guarana extract all aimed at boosting energy levels. However, there are concerns about the health risks associated with excessive caffeine consumption, including trembling hands, high blood pressure, and stomach issues. A study conducted on American soldiers revealed that high energy drink usage was linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and aggression. This raises questions about whether relying on these drinks to feel energized is ultimately counterproductive.
In conclusion, while energy drinks may seem like an effective way to boost strength and stamina among Ukrainian soldiers on the battlefronts and civilians alike facing challenging circumstances; it’s important to consider the potential health risks associated with excessive consumption of these beverages. Further research into alternative methods for increasing endurance is necessary to ensure that those who rely on these drinks are not putting their health at risk in pursuit of temporary gains in alertness or courage.
