Q: What is the 5-hour ENERGY® drink and is it good for you?
A: 5-hour ENERGY® is marketed as an “energy shot” that provides a quick and convenient boost of energy without the calories and sugar of full-size energy drinks, coffees, and sodas.
The 5-hour ENERGY® website lists the follow ingredients for their original energy shot:
- Vitamin B (B6, B12)
- Niacin
- Folic Acid
- Caffeine – contains as much caffeine as a regular cup of coffee
- Other ingredients including: Citicoline, Tyrosine, Phenylalanine, Taurine, Malic Acid, and Glucuronolactone
Is it good for you? The “energy” in the shot comes from the caffeine. Ingesting a single energy shot on an infrequent bases is most likely not problematic. In reality, people are regularly consuming the energy shots with other caffeinated drinks and this is leading to caffeine overload. Too much caffeine can lead to several health issues including: insomnia, nervousness, nausea, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure.
If you are regularly fatigued, it is recommended that you look for natural ways to boost energy levels. Suggestions include:
- Eat several small meals vs. infrequent large meals
- Don’t skip meals, especially breakfast
- Avoid large amounts of sugar and fat
- Take quick exercise breaks throughout the day to shake off drowsiness
- Exercise regularly
- Stress management
- Quality sleep