STATE OF ERYTHROCYTE MEMBRANES AND ENDOGENOUS ERYTHROCYTE INTOXICATION UNDER CONDITIONS OF ENERGY DRINK CONSUMPTION

Abstract

Introduction. In a world full of constant challenges and tasks, energy drinks are becoming not only a means of recharging energy, but also a symbol of modern lifestyle. They reflect people’s need for a quick and effective way to increase productivity and concentration in everyday life. However, along with the increasing popularity of energy drinks, attention to their impact on health is also growing. Questions regarding the safety and effectiveness of energy drinks are discussed, as well as possible consequences for the body due to excessive consumption.

The aim of the study – to investigate the effect of an energy drink on the state of erythrocyte membranes and endogenous intoxication.

Research Methods. The study was conducted using male Wistar rats, which were kept in the vivarium under appropriate lighting conditions, temperature, humidity and standard diet. All animals had free access to feed (based on daily requirements) and water (based on 20 ml of water per rat per day). The amount of standard feed consumed for laboratory animals was determined by its residue in the feeder. Control over the growth and development of animals was performed by weighing them at the beginning and at the end of the experiments. The experimental animals were divided into four groups: 1^st group – received drinking water (intact control); 2^nd group – received an energy drink for a month and the collection of material was carried out on the 1^th day at the end of the experiment; 3^rd group – received an energy drink for a month and the collection of material was carried out on the 20^th day at the end of the experiment; 4^th group – received an energy drink for a month and the collection of material was carried out on the 30^th day at the end of the experiment. The functional state of plasma membranes of erythrocytes was assessed by determining the acid resistance of erythrocytes by the kinetic method. The state of endogenous intoxication was assessed by the erythrocyte intoxication index (EII) and the content of medium weight molecules (MM). EII was determined in the reaction with methylene blue. Determination of MM content was carried out spectrophotometrically after precipitation of proteins using trichloroacetic acid (TCA).

Results and Discussion.  The study of acid resistance of erythrocytes and indicators of endogenous intoxication under the conditions of energy drink consumption showed a violation of the structure of erythrocyte membranes and an increase in the content of MM and EII.

Conclusions. The obtained results indicate the development of endogenous intoxication and the increase of the total toxic effect on the membranes of erythrocytes.