ELECTROLYTE

This study investigated the effects of controlled consumption of Predator energy drink on kidney function among healthy young adults in the University of Benin. Energy drinks contain caffeine, taurine, sugars and several additives that may influence renal physiology. The study assessed both plasma and urinary biomarkers to determine whether short term intake could produce early changes in renal function. A total of young adult participants were assigned into three groups which included a control group, a group that consumed one bottle of Predator energy drink daily and another group that consumed two bottles daily for one week. Blood and urine samples were collected after the intervention and analysed using standard biochemical methods. The results showed that cystatin C levels increased significantly in both energy drink groups, indicating early glomerular stress. Plasma creatinine and plasma electrolytes did not show significant changes, suggesting that the kidneys were still able to maintain filtration and electrolyte balance during this short exposure period. Urinary findings showed significant changes in urine pH, urinary bicarbonate, urinary potassium and urinary creatinine, which indicated early tubular alterations and increased renal workload. Urinary albumin remained unchanged across all groups, showing that structural glomerular integrity was preserved. The study concludes that short term consumption of Predator energy drink can cause mild renal stress that is detectable through sensitive biomarkers even when traditional renal markers remain within normal limits. These findings highlight the importance of moderate intake among young adults to prevent possible long term renal complications. It is recommended that regular consumers undergo periodic health checks and that more extended studies be carried out to determine the long term effects of frequent energy drink consumption.