New Delhi: Energy drinks, marketed as instant vitality in cans, are the newest craze among young India. But behind every fizzy sip quietly lurks liver damage. On World Liver Day, liver experts are reporting a rise in cases linked to excessive consumption, raising concerns about the rising health risks among the country’s youth.Doctors cite clinical experience and global evidence. a case in bmj case report Excessive energy drink consumption has been linked to acute hepatitis due to high doses of niacin (vitamin B3), which is known to be hepatotoxic at higher doses. Experts say the mix of sugar, caffeine and additives promote fat buildup, oxidative stress and inflammation in liver cells, increasing the risk of long-term damage, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).“Over the last few years, we have seen a significant increase in young patients with liver dysfunction. Energy drinks, alcohol and high-sugar drinks are the main contributors,” said Dr Abhideep Choudhary, President, Liver Transplantation Society of India (LTSI). “Often viewed as harmless, these drinks place extreme stress on the liver. When mixed with alcohol or consumed excessively, they accelerate injury. If the damage progresses, a transplant may become the only life-saving option.”India is witnessing a rise in NAFLD, affecting an estimated 25-30% of the urban population, including young adults. Overconsumption of sugary beverages is a major cause, and doctors say energy drinks are worsening the trend.“We are seeing a demographic change, with patients in their 20s and 30s coming in first,” said Dr Nirav Goyal, president-elect of LTSI and head of liver transplant, hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi. “Alcohol remains a major factor, but energy drinks and sugary drinks are increasing this burden.”Experts also warn against mixing energy drinks with alcohol, as caffeine can mask its sedative effects, leading to overdosage and toxicity.“Lifestyle choices are directly impacting liver health at an early age,” said Dr Charles Pankel, Secretary, LTSI and Senior Consultant, Hepatology, Aster Medcity, Kochi. “Continued exposure leads to everything from fatty liver to inflammation, fibrosis, and even cirrhosis. Early-stage disease is often reversible.”“Frequent consumption of energy drinks is an under-recognized risk,” said Dr Naveen Ganju, Governing Council – Adult Hepatology, LTSI and Senior Consultant, Hepatology and Integrated Liver Care, Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru.Experts have called for stronger awareness and lifestyle changes, stressing that cutting down on energy drinks, alcohol and sugary beverages is the key to prevention.