So what are energy drinks? Drinks that give you energy right? Sounds easy enough. However, what is in energy drinks that give you the energy? Some, such as a Monster, do not exactly disclose everything that is in it. Some simply say "proprietary blend" or "energy blend complex." These are questions and concerns that many people consider before deciding whether or not they want to start taking an energy drink before exercise.
Caffeine
Caffeine is typically the main ingredient in most energy drinks, although it may be named something different, such as guaranine or matine, or theine. Caffeine has been around for a very long time. Although all caffeine is the same, it can come from different sources. Caffeine occurs naturally in plants such as tea leaves, cocoa beans, coffee beans, and guarana plant (guaranine), amongst many others. The source that the caffeine comes from really does not change the common benefits of caffeine, which include enhanced alertness, increased concentration and focus, and reduced fatigue.
Is Caffeine Right for Me
Prior to using a caffeinated energy drink you should consult your doctor. People with heart problems and/or high blood pressure are typically advised against it. You should use them at your own discretion. Negative side effects include increased urination, upset stomach (diarrhea), insomnia, dizziness and/or nausea, and increased heart rate. The only side effect that I have ever experienced is diarrhea. Other than that, no problems.
Which is the Best Energy Drink
Personally, if I had to choose the best drink for energy it would be an all natural juice that is high in natural sugar, such as apple juice or grape juice. Unfortunately, I have tried those and they simply do not provide that extra "kick" I am looking for to complete my workouts. Thus, I have turned to other sources of energy. My three favorite energy drinks are as follows:
- V8 V Fusion + Energy. I absolutely LOVE this energy drink. It is only 50 calories and provides a decent dose of caffeine (80 mg) and other vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. V Fusion + Energy even provide a full serving of fruits and vegetables!
- FRS Healthy Energy (11.5 oz. serving). FRS Healthy Energy is another good energy drink, although I do not like it as much as the V Fusion + Energy one. FRS is only 15 calories and comes in 5 flavors: citrus pomegranate, orange, peach mango, wild berry, and nectarine. The only flavor I have tried is orange and I think it tastes okay. Bearable at the least. FRS contains 48 mg of caffeine and most of the same vitamins as V Fusion + Energy. However, FRS upset my stomach more for some reason.
- Hydrive Energy. I discovered the Hydrive Energy drink recently and have only used it a few times prior to working out. Regardless, I love the results! Unlike the two energy drinks listed above, Hydrive contains a whopping 160 mg of caffeine and Hydrive Extra Power contains 195 mg per bottle! It tastes okay. You have 8 flavors to choose from: citrus burst, kiwi strawberry, triple berry, lemon lime rush, grape fusion, blue raspberry (extra power version), black cherry (extra power version), and wild peach (decaf version).
Another reason I love these three energy drinks listed above is because each one of them disclose exactly what is in the drink directly on the container. I refuse to consume anything that contains a "proprietary blend complex" because there is no way of knowing how much of each ingredient is in the drink. It simply lists one amount, such as 1110 mg, instead of individually disclosing the amount of each ingredient.
Final Note
Personally, I love to drink an energy drink before working out. It not only provides me with the extra boost of energy I need to make it through my workout, but also makes it somewhat enjoyable. That is probably due to the B vitamins which are known to enhance moods thus making you feel "happy." As long as you use caffeine in moderation, most experts deem it okay. Most healthy people can consume between 200 and 400 mg of caffeine daily and be okay. In fact, the National Institute of Health conducted and study which concluded that coffee drinkers are less likely to die from heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke, injuries and accidents, diabetes, and infections than non-coffee drinkers. Pretty crazy huh? Regardless, you should always consult your doctor before taking any type of caffeinated drink.
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