Katie Donnell, 28, described by her mother as the “epitome of health,” died of a heart attack in 2021. Her mother, Lori Barranon, believes excessive energy drink consumption was to blame. Katie, a fitness enthusiast, regularly consumed pre-workout supplements and energy drinks. “She would start with a pre-workout before work or the gym,” Lori said. Her boyfriend revealed she bought a four-pack every few days, and a friend recalled, “she’d hardly be seen without an energy drink.” After her death, Lori found multiple empty cans in her car.
Health experts warn that excessive energy drink consumption can cause heart issues, including high blood pressure and arrhythmias. While doctors acknowledge the risks, they say it’s difficult to prove a direct cause.
“At 28, you just don’t see people dropping dead of a heart attack,” Lori said. Despite Katie’s healthy lifestyle, Lori is convinced energy drinks played a role.
“I beg people to counsel their kids and watch what they’re doing,” she urged, advocating for a ban on energy drinks.
