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.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-

Working and exercising - more tips for a workplace routine.

Further to the previous Post, here are a few more handy hints and tips to keep you fit, energised, healthy and active in your workplace, if like me, you spend a lot of time driving your desk, or driving your car, bashing away at a computer keyboard, or answering the phone, get up, walk around, get out at lunchtime and stimulate those muscles and your circulation.

Written by Kate Stratton (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Stratton) and sourced through 'ezinearticles' at http://EzineArticles.com/8794133, there is some good common sense stuff here that we all too often and all too quickly neglect.


Hands up who works in an office - either at home or at the company workplace?

Lots of us do. For at least 8 hours a day we toil away at our desks indoors. But only now are we starting to recognize the detrimental health effects this lifestyle has on our bodies. So whilst quitting the office life is likely not an option, how can we make changes can we make to stay healthy whilst maintaining an office job?

Sitting all day?
Is sitting the new smoking? That's what some people are now claiming due to the serious effects sitting all day has on the body. The Smithsonian claims that sitting all day can increase rates of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer.

So what can we do?
Take regular breaks from sitting. Move around. Get a glass of water. Make an effort to take the stairs. Or even better is invest, or convince your boss to invest, in a standing desk. Rather than sit or stand all day, the optimal goal is to mix it up, so as not to put excessive strain on the body.

Not getting enough vitamin D?
It's so easy to not get enough vitamin D. If you are like me, maybe you commute to work early via train or car, work all day then return home or head straight to the gym. Vitamin D is really important for proper bodily functioning, including calcium absorption which can lead to nasty bone problems in the long term. We can all become easily depleted, especially in winter.

So what can we do?
While you may feel the urge to sit at your computer during your lunch break, often lunchtime is the only chance you'll have to get out and catch some sweet sun rays. So grab your lunch and get outside for a break that will do your body good and make you feel refreshed for the afternoon ahead.

If you are unsure whether you are getting enough vitamin D, get your levels checked by a doctor. Vitamin D supplements are commonly prescribed once a deficiency is identified.

Too much sugar and caffeine?
Ah, sugar and caffeine. I have a love hate relationship with both. Both are great when you have them but then they let you down as the rush dissipates. Then you need more. And more. Suddenly I'm drinking four coffees a day and feeling crap. Eating chocolate in the afternoon and wondering why I'm not sleeping well. Then having more coffee in the morning to make up for not sleeping, and on and on goes the vicious cycle. Coffee is like the bad boyfriend I could never leave.

So what can we do?
Well, getting off the coffee train is not for necessary for everyone. But including some other options to help stay awake can promote a healthier lifestyle. This includes green apples, various teas such as yerba mate and going for a brisk walk at lunchtime all help. So try to mix it up a little and your body will thank you.

WhyWeight - don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-