Lately I have heard students and faculty talk about the popular drink product called "5-hour Energy." Although I am not a believer in energy drinks, (as most are very high in sugar, caffeine, herbal stimulants, and other additives), 5-hour Energy seems to be a bit different. It contains no sugar or herbal stimulants. It also claims to give people "energy now, without the crash." Let's investigate further.
Before I continue, let me say that I am not recommending or opposing 5-hour Energy. I am simply going to tell you a little bit about its nutrient content and how those nutrients might contribute to increased energy. With that said, let's take a look at the major ingredients.
B Vitamins - B vitamins play many roles in the human body. They contribute to nervous system health, enzyme reactions, protein formation, heart health, immunity, and energy production. Often times, "energy production" is the first thing associated with B vitamins. 5 hour Energy contains B5, B6, B12, and Folic Acid. To understand the quality of these B vitamins, one should look at the form of B12 used. The B12 listed is "cyanacobalamin." This form of B12 is bound to a cyanide molecule. In order for the body to use this form of B12, it must remove the cyanide molecule and metabolize it. The nutrient must then be converted into the co-enzyme (food-like) form of the vitamin that the body can use. This process demands energy from the body.
My number one recommendation for B vitamins is fresh, whole, unprocessed food. Meat, vegetables, fruits, and beans are all great sources of ready to use B vitamins!
Energy Blend containing Caffeine and various Amino Acids - I'm sure many of you have heard of caffeine. Caffeine is an ingredient that was originally discovered in the coffee bean. It has a stimulating effect on the body's nervous system that offsets sleepiness and boosts alertness. Although the exact amount is not listed, 5 hour Energy claims to contain the amount of caffeine you would find in the "leading premium coffee."
The Amino Acids: Amino acids are naturally found in protein. They have various functions in the human body. 5 hour Energy includes: Taurine, Tyrosine, and Phenylalanine. Taurine has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. It also aids in the body's use of insulin. Tyrosine is an important precursor to neurotransmitter production, including dopamine. This means that it helps produce dopamine. Dopamine gives us a sense of pleasure when it is released in the body. It helps relieve stress and improve drive. Phenylalanine boosts metabolism and aids in nerve transmission.
Other major ingredients include Malic Acid, Glucuronic Acid, and Citicoline: Malic Acid is an energizing nutrient that helps prevent muscle fatigue by reducing lactic acid. Glucuronic Acid aids the liver with metabolism. And Citicoline acts to boost mental focus and energy.
Hopefully that gives you a better idea of what is actually in the product 5 hour Energy. I encourage everyone to read the ingredients listed on products you choose to purchase. If you don't know what something is, research it! Find out what you are putting in your body. Like I said, I don't recommend or reject this product. I just wanted to shed a little light on what it is. I DO highly recommend whole, real, food. Our bodies have evolved and thrived on whole natural foods for our entire existence. When you eat a variety of these foods, you will be provided with an assortment of nutrients that will give you an abundance of energy. In addition to food, restful sleep, managing stress, and of course exercise, will all greatly add to your energy reserves.
Thanks for reading and feel free to ask questions or comment below.
