So you figure that energy drinks are harmless and keeps you awake for an all-nighter or a very boring job? Guess again! Drinking too much energy drinks can seriously affect your health. On the other hand - having energy drinks on occasion - when you really need it- isn't all bad. Let's debunk some myths.

Myth #1- Energy drinks burn calories. What they actually do is give you the energy to burn some calories. A quick burst of energy before exercising isn't frowned upon, but when it comes from an energy drink the caffeine gives you a quick boost and has the potential for crash. In addition to your energy drink or energy shot, consider some fruits and lean protein.

Myth #2 -They increase your metabolism. This is as far from the truth as it can get. While it does give your metabolism a quick (and temporary boost) afterward your stomach is still stuck with the carbohydrates and caffeine neither of which are metabolism boosters.

Myth #3 - Energy drinks give back your body the nutrients it has lost during exercise. This is also not true. While it may provide you a boost at the start of the game or exercise period, it has the potential to make you thirsty. Instead of drinking more, you might like to opt for water or fruit juice - both hydrate you without sending your energy levels sky high. While your energy drink or energy shot may provide you with a boost of energy, don't look for it to provide nutrients. There are better ways to get those.

Myth #4 -They help me achieve fitness. The only thing you achieve by exercising and drinking liters of these drinks are more calories to burn. Think about it this way. If you are using energy drinks solely to get through a workout, the more calorie-ridden energy you take in, the more calories you have to burn. At some point your body is going to crash because of your GI-levels jumping round and about.

Myth #5 - Drinking energy drinks the morning after a long night of partying will help you recover from your hangover. In fact they can make your headache gain an extra one! Let's face it - you're not going to exercise the morning after a drinking fest, so while drinking them will help you stay awake, they ultimately have the effect of dehydrating you. Caffeine actually slows the burning of the alcohol in your bloodstream. So rather than be sober, you'll just be wide awake and hurting.

Myth #6 - They provide long-lasting energy. In truth they only provide you with a quick spurt of energy and then you'll crash because of your GI-levels falling so quickly. 0 Calorie energy shots actually provide a better alternative due to the lack of sugar crash that your body can experience with energy drinks.

5 Hour Energy, Hero Energy Shot and others provides many benefits, many have less than 4 calories so you don't experience the sugar crash.

Now that you know the myths, you can make an educated decision on how you will use these products and the real benefits you'll gain. While there are definitely benefits, don't expect miracles and as always, drink responsibly.