What makes the healthiest energy drink?

Energy drinks get a lot of bad press for containing lots of stuff that we don't really need and are just a quick thirst quencher, or give you a temporary high or energy boost to keep you going until the next one! I came across this more informative article on 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/7433377) that might tell you something new and help point you in the right direction. Everything has a place, and there is a place for everything . . . including energy drinks, so here are some good pointers courtesy of Greg N. Reed (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_N_Reed)



The popularity of energy drinks has increased tremendously over the years especially among children and teenagers. The consumption of these drinks has been castigated by the media and most parents are worried about their safety. One of the main ingredients in most of these drinks is caffeine, which is associated with many negative health effects. However, many people can control the amount of caffeine they take by consuming such drinks in moderation. The population can enjoy moderate quantities of caffeine in these drinks without getting any undesired outcomes. The most important thing is to determine the amount of caffeine in any such drink as this will help in moderating consumption. The healthiest energy drink contains other ingredients that are beneficial to the body as will be discussed below.

Taurine
This is an amino acid that is made by the body from the foods we consume. Animal products, such as chicken, beef, pork and lamb contain high taurine levels. Some fish, such as oysters, cod and clams also have high amounts of taurine. Taurine helps in regulating mineral and water levels in the body as well as supporting neurological development. The reason why taurine is included in these types of drinks is because it helps in improving physical and athletic performance. There were rumours that consumption of taurine increases the risk of getting cancer. However, this was dispelled by the 2003 report published in the European Food Safety Authority whereby studies conducted showed that there was no link between cancer and consumption of taurine because it is a naturally occurring element in the human body.

Ginseng
This is herb that is associated with numerous health benefits ranging from lowering glucose levels in the blood, boosting the immunity, increasing physical performance and stamina and enhancing mental performance. Ginseng also hastens recovery in people suffering from various illnesses and can be found in the healthiest energy drink.

Guarana
This is a South American plant that is used in sodas and energy drinks. It contains some caffeine and is usually added to these drinks to improve mental and physical performance by providing the much needed energy. It might not be indicated on the container of the energy drink, but it is still a main ingredient. In the U.S., guarana is recognised as a natural flavouring ingredient that is safe to use.

B Vitamins
B vitamins occur in various food stuffs and are useful in regulating metabolism. Cobalamin and thiamin are some of the main examples of B vitamins. B vitamins contained in these types of drinks help in maintaining and enhancing mental functions.

Caffeine
This is the primary ingredient in most energy drinks as it helps in improving mental and physical performance and for increasing the flavor. Caffeine is not bad for the body as long as it's taken in moderation as it provides the body with the energy boost needed to enhance performance.

Carnitine
This is a substance obtained from a certain amino acid and it stimulates the cell to produce more energy. This increases metabolism, improving physical performance. Most healthy people have adequate quantities of carnitine as it is naturally produced in the body and from foods consumed.

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