Can Functional Beverages Serve as a Substantial Source of Macroelements and Microelements in Human Nutrition?-Analysis of Selected Minerals in Energy and Isotonic Drinks.

Studies on the ingredients of energy drinks and isotonic drinks focus mainly on the evaluation of their content in terms of substances modulating the body's metabolism or those regarded as food additives. Having regard to the widespread availability of these beverages, their diversity and the limited number of studies in this area, the aim of this study was to analyse the contents of F, Al, Cd, Cr, Mn, V, Co, Ni, Zn, Bi and Na in the energy drinks and isotonic drinks available in the Polish market. Fluorine concentration was analysed using an ion-selective electrode. The other elements were analysed using ICP-OES. Obtained results showed that functional beverages need to be taken into account as a source of macroelements and microelements in human nutrition, particularly when ingested often and in large quantities (which applies particularly to the young population). Moreover, due caution needs to be maintained in consumer choices.