Energy drinks emerging as hidden driver of liver damage in India’s youth, warn experts

Medical experts point to a growing body of research linking energy drinks to liver injury

Marking World Liver Day, leading liver specialists across India have raised an urgent public health concern—excessive consumption of energy drinks is increasingly contributing to liver damage among young people. Backed by clinical observations and global scientific evidence, doctors say a worrying trend is emerging, with more patients in their 20s and 30s presenting early signs of liver disease.

Medical experts point to a growing body of research linking energy drinks to liver injury. A case published in BMJ Case Reports documented acute hepatitis in a previously healthy individual following excessive energy drink intake. The condition was attributed largely to high levels of niacin (Vitamin B3), which can be toxic to the liver in large doses.

“Over the past few years, we have seen a significant increase in young patients presenting with liver dysfunction. Three major contributors stand out—energy drinks, alcohol, and high-sugar beverages,” said Dr Abhideep Chaudhary, President of the Liver Transplantation Society of India. “Energy drinks, often perceived as harmless, contain high levels of caffeine, sugar, and additives that place immense stress on the liver. When combined with alcohol or consumed excessively, they accelerate liver injury. In advanced cases, liver transplant may become the only life-saving option.”

India is already witnessing a surge in fatty liver disease, with studies suggesting that nearly 25–30% of the urban population may be affected, including a growing number of adolescents and young adults. Experts attribute this rise largely to sedentary lifestyles and high intake of processed and sugary beverages.

Highlighting a shift in disease patterns, Dr Neerav Goyal, President-Elect of LTSI, noted that liver disease is no longer confined to older populations. “Patients in their 20s and 30s are increasingly being diagnosed with conditions that were once seen later in life. While alcohol remains a major factor, the role of energy drinks and sugary beverages cannot be ignored. Many young people consider these drinks part of a normal lifestyle, unaware of the long-term risks.”

Experts also warn against the rising trend of mixing energy drinks with alcohol. The stimulant effect of caffeine can mask the sedative impact of alcohol, often leading to higher consumption and increasing the risk of toxicity and liver damage.

“From a clinical standpoint, we are clearly observing how lifestyle choices are impacting liver health at a younger age,” said Dr Charles Panackel, Secretary of LTSI. “The liver is resilient, but continuous exposure to harmful substances leads to progressive damage—from fatty liver to inflammation, fibrosis, and even cirrhosis. The concern is that early-stage liver disease is often reversible, but only if detected in time.”

Echoing similar concerns, Dr Naveen Ganjoo, a member of LTSI’s governing council, said that energy drinks remain an under-recognised risk factor. “Frequent intake, especially when paired with poor lifestyle habits, can accelerate early liver injury. What is concerning is that many of these cases are preventable with greater awareness.”