Which Healthy Energy Drinks Are Best?

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In today’s fast-paced world healthy energy drinks are often a necessity for someone trying to maintain a busy schedule. They can give you a second wind and clear the fog out of your brain. They give you the fuel to go longer and allow you to get more work done.

But be aware that some energy drink can be harmful to your health. Many brands are loaded with sugar and caffeine while others even contain dangerous amounts of powerful stimulants such as guarana and ephedrine. These stimulants are not approved by the FDA and can cause serious health problems and put unsafe strain on your heart. Many people have found themselves in the emergency room from consuming these stimulant filled drinks.

If you are serious about finding an energy drink that is truly nutritious you should probably skip the grocery store altogether. A quick check of the nutritional information and ingredients list of products such as Red Bull will indicate that it is indeed the opposite of “good for you”. A little research and label reading will go a long way to

Healthy Energy Drinks

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Healthy Energy Drinks

Many natural energy boosters can be found online and in your local health food store such as GNC. These organic products contain ingredients that give your body natural energy versus fleeting energy created by sugar, chemicals and dangerous stimulants.

FRS Healthy Energy Drink is an excellent all-natural energy drink that fuels your body naturally but is also low in sugar and calories. It comes in a refreshing and delicious orange flavor. These drinks can be purchased online and FRS also features an entire line of high-quality health products including a convenient chewable energy booster.

VIVA Healthy Blend is a drink that not only fuels your body with natural energy but also provides a wealth of other health benefits such as regulating your blood sugar, increasing your metabolism (which stimulates weight loss), improves your cardiovascular health and increases brain function. This power elixir is loaded natural ingredients with antioxidant properties, such as blueberry and the super powerful acai berry, that are proven to improve overall health.

If you’re the more adventurous type, seeking ultimate nutrition, the best energy drink would be the Amazon Thunder Acai pulp puree. This puree is best taken straight up in small shots but can also be diluted in juice or water. It contains many nutrients, antioxidants and even Omega 3 fatty acids. This super juice claims to not only boost energy levels but also reduce cholesterol, high blood pressure, reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke. It contains all natural ingredients and has no sugar, water, preservatives, salt or caffeine.

When searching for healthy energy drinks ignore the television commercials and the fancy advertisements. The proof of the product lies on the label.

Monster Energy Drink Ingredients

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Monster Energy beverages have been available since 2002 but many people are still not aware of the Monster Energy Drink ingredients or how they provide an energy boost. Monster energy is distributed by Hansen Natural, part of Corona, California. There are a growing number of variant flavors and formulas as the company strives to make the best energy drink possible.

The Main Ingredient

The base of Monster energy drinks is simple carbonated water. This gives the fizzy texture of the drink. Sucrose and glucose are types of sugar, included at a rate of 27g per 8 fluid ounces or 250ml of fluid. The sugar content provides energy as it is converted into carbohydrates in the body.

Monster Energy Drink Ingredients

Monster Energy Drink Ingredients
Amino Acids

Taurine is an amino acid and a synthetic form is found in most energy drinks, including Monster. Taurine is found in the body naturally. It was originally extracted from ox bile, which is where taurine gets its name, from the Latin ‘taurus’ meaning bull. The form of taurine found in energy drinks is synthesized in a laboratory and despite rumors, is unrelated to the reproductive organs of the bull. The form found in energy drinks is vegetarian friendly. The nutritional benefits of taurine in humans is unknown but it has no negative effects. L-Carnitine is another amino acid usually present in the liver and kidneys. It helps with energy levels and can increase metabolism. As a supplement it may help with weight loss during exercise.

Stimulants

Energy drinks work by containing stimulants which aid in enhancing wakefulness and alertness. The combination of stimulants in energy drinks are concentrated and combined to maximize these effects. The main stimulants in Monster are caffeine and panax ginseng root extract. Caffeine is one of the most common stimulants found in tea, coffee, chocolate and many other food and beverages. It is usually present in energy drinks at a concentration of around 160mg per 16oz of drink. Ginseng root is thought to be a nutritional stimulant with other therapeutic effects. Guarana seed is also included in the recipe. Guarana beans have a high concentration of caffeine, however the stimulating effects may differ from that of coffee. Some people report Guarana to be more effect whilst others claim coffee is more beneficial.

B Vitamins

B vitamins help the body to convert food to energy. The amounts found in energy drinks may help the body to provide more energy but this is not confirmed. Niacinamide and riboflavin are some of the B vitamins found in Monster.

Preservatives

Monster Energy Drink ingredients like every other energy drink contains preservatives such as Sorbic Acid, Benzoic Acid and Sodium chloride also known as salt. These preservatives help keep the drink stable when it is on the shelves. This means it can be stored for long periods without turning bad.

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Energy Drinks Side Effects – Are They Worth It?

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Energy drinks have become so popular, that they are found almost anywhere you look. Millions of people consume these drinks each month. It comes as no surprise that manufacturers are thrilled with this fact. However, the major concern is whether or not these energy drinks are bad for people’s health. People who consume these drinks regularly are likely to feel the negative side effects sooner or later. In moderation, most drinks do not cause any major health problems. Although, large consumptions over time can lead to many chronic diseases. Energy drinks side effects often include headaches, stomach problems, insomnia, tremors, spiked blood sugar levels, dehydration, blood sugar spikes, energy crashes, and a drastic increase in the heart rate.

Even worse, most brands offer sugar-free versions, as well. These sugar-free drinks are worse than the regular version due to the artificial sweeteners which they contain. The most commonly used sweetener found in these drinks is sucralose. Also, used in these energy drinks are several energy blends, like taurine, caffeine and herbs. Although herbs do not cause any major health problems, they can produce many odd side effects when you mix them with other chemicals.

energy drinks side effectsUNDESIRED EFFECTS:

Although they are packed full of empty calories, the increasing popularity of these drinks is a source of concern which continues to grow. Many young people do not appear to be knowledgeable of the potentially harmful effects that overly consuming these drinks can have. Several side effects such as headaches, nervousness, tremors and even insomnia may be incurred. If, combined with alcohol, which is encouraged by many bars, can have very fatal or deadly effects. This is because when the two are combined the heart rate becomes accelerated and raises your arterial blood level. Another huge concern is that it can mask the effects of alcohol which lead the person to take risks such as driving.

Energizing Drinks Combined with Physical Activity:

The marketing strategies, which are deployed, by this industry is trying to attract youth through many extreme sports events. Sponsorships for the drinks have been depicting many high level athletes which are involved in many sports and is suggesting to consumers that these drinks are a good source of hydration. The truth is, sports drinks such as Propel or Gatorade, do not contain caffeine like energy drinks, but vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars which are necessary for re-hydration and replenishing energy reserves.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Health Associations suggest a maximum daily consumption of 500 ml or 2 cups. This is equal to two energy drinks. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, as well as, children should avoid any consumption as these drinks are not recommended.

Comparison:

If a person were to drink 5 cans of a 250 ml energy drink they will consume 400 mg of caffeine or more for the day. In comparison, 2 cans of soda are equivalent to drinking 80 mg of coffee or other form of caffeine, which is the same dose found in a single can of these drinks.

Ingredients Included In Energy Drinks And Their Side Effects:

energy drink ingredientsCaffeine:

The most common ingredient found in these drinks is caffeine. Side Effects of caffeine can include dizziness, irritability, jitters, severe headaches, nausea, and nervousness. Many people have also had allergic reactions with symptoms consisting of rashes, itching, hives, breathing difficulties, tightening of the chest, insomnia, diarrhea, nervousness, and swelling of the lips, mouth, and face. Breast shrinkage in women has also been recorded as a caffeine side effect.

Taurine:

At this time, no side effects from have been documented for Taurine. However, when more than 35mg of Thiamine which is also B3 is consumed the skin can become flushed. An intake of 3000mg could lead to liver toxicity, while 100mg or more of B6 causes problems with the sensory nerve problems and skin lesions. Some patients have reported a burning sensation to their skin.

Inositol:

There are no known side effects which have been reported. However, large quantities have been known to cause some people diarrhea. A few studies have linked Inositol to sleeplessness, but others refute this. Other possible symptoms may include diarrhea, headaches, nausea, nose bleeds, spiked or low blood pressure, and pain in the breast.

Glucuronolactone:

While there are no side effects which have been reported, a debate still remains on the safety which has lead England, Germany, France and Canada from allowing Glucuronolactone in any non-prescription drugs or other products.

Ginkgo Biloba:

Known side effects for Ginkgo Biloba are nausea, diarrhea, headaches, vomiting, dizziness, restlessness, and heart palpitations. Also, it could interact with many per scribed medication’s such as anti-depressants or blood thinners, as well.

L-Carnitine:

Nausea, vomiting, headaches, diarrhea, restlessness, stuffy nose, and insomnia are all side effects from L-Carnitine.

Other Things Worth Considering:

Synthetic vitamins and minerals:

Vitamins and minerals, which are found, in most of these drinks are synthetic, and cheaply made. The purpose of this is to help increase profits. Energy drinks usually contain many water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins B and C. Most consumer think of the drinks as being healthy when they see that it contains these vitamins. The truth is that water-soluble vitamins dissolve very fast in liquid; therefore, adding them to beverages serves no purpose. For this very reason, each time you consume one of these drinks, you are consuming a drink which is basically full of nothing but empty calories.

Refined sugar:

Refined sugars are very different from our natural sugars which we get from fruits and vegetables due to all nutrients being stripped. A body needs these nutrients to be able to utilize sugar. When these nutrients are taken away, your body is not able to metabolize sugar. The result of this can lead to toxic metabolite, which destroys cells, from interfering with the respiration process of them.

Sucralose:

Sucralose is a well known artificial sweetener which works like refined sugar but could be toxic to your body. This sweetener is more than 100 times sweeter than sugar and is produced by chlorinating regular sugar. Some researchers claim that the sweetener does not cause any harmful effects, because it passes the digestive system unchanged. However, many independent researchers have claimed that sucralose can increase your risk of developing degenerative brain disease. Sucralose is sold in many stores under the name of Splenda, and it is a product which is used in many of sugar free products on the market.

It is important to keep in mind that when thinking of energy drinks side effects, that many ingredients also have similar effects that are negative. Therefore, with so much information, which is being, anecdotal from any patient it is hard to determine which one actually caused the health problem when the patient was consuming several combinations at one time. If, after taking all of these possible side effects in to consideration, you still choose to consume these drinks, as with anything else, please do so in moderation.

Enjoy The Many Health Benefits Of Yogurt

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There are many benefits of yogurt that will become readily apparent when it is consumed on a regular basis. Yogurt has been consumed in Europe for centuries and has always been touted for its many health benefits. Yogurt, like all fermented food, is teeming with healthy bacteria. This beneficial bacteria, is very good for the body’s immune system. This is because the healthy bacteria contained in this food kills off the bad bacteria found in the body’s colon. The intestines of the human body are largely responsible for providing the body with a strong immune system. When the immune system is strong the body thrives and cannot fall victim to flu’s and viruses.

Yogurt health benefits have been known for centuries. This food is a staple in the Caucasus and other areas of Europe. Yogurt is made by adding a bacterial culture to warm milk. The container with the milk is then covered and left to ferment. This can take from several hours to several days, depending on whether a traditional or more modern device is used. Yogurt machines allow the milk to ferment in a few hours and make the process very convenient. There is not much work involved besides heating up the milk and stirring in the yogurt starter.

benefits of yogurtIt is not known exactly where this fermented food first originated, although many think it was first brought to Turkey by the Mongols many centuries ago. It then steadily migrated north until it became a staple food in many northern European countries. It is very popular in Russian and all Slavic countries. People living in those regions swear by its health benefits and rejuvenating powers. The food also contains a lot of calcium and protein and this makes it an ideal all-around health food of choice for many.

Yogurt has now become very popular in the western world, and there are many variations and flavors now available in stores. One variation of this food is called Kefir. Until recently this fermented product was not available in stores and had to be made with a special Kefir culture. This culture was rather hard to obtain and was generally passed along among friends. Now it is possible to buy both the Kefir starter and the finished product in stores. This food is often known as the ‘champagne’ of yogurt. It is a thick liquid rather than a solid like yogurt. It has a slightly sour taste and is almost fizzy when ingested.

Many stores now sell organic yogurt. This food is made with milk that was not exposed to pesticides or antibiotics. There are many individuals who do not eat anything but organic foods. The antibiotics that are usually given to cows are thought to enter into the milk and are then transferred into the body of the person consuming the food. Many health-minded individuals find this thought very objectionable, and can now rest assured that an organic version of yogurt is now readily available. Pesticides are also absent from this more wholesome version of this fermented food.

There are quite a variety of yogurt brands to choose from. Some are plain with no flavor or sugar added. The people who buy this type of yogurt will often put their own fruit into the cup and mix it up. This is very healthful and avoids all the sugars and fillers that so many of the ready-made brands contain. Many of the yogurt tubs on the market, do not in fact contain, any of the healthy bacteria that is present in home-fermented yogurt. This is because the manufacturing process destroys the beneficial bacteria before the product even hits the store shelves.

Manufacturers have now wised up to the fact that people want to consume the healthy bacteria that is normally found in this food. As a result there are now many brands available that have added extra gut-friendly bacteria to the batches of yogurt. The containers have the amount of bacteria contained within written on the label. This is welcome news for those who are aware of the many benefits of yogurt when it contains all the healthy bacterial cultures it is supposed to contain.

Since protein is such an important nutrient that the body requires on a daily basis, it is worth noting that yogurt contains a fair amount of protein per serving. The calcium content of this food makes it ideal for anyone worried about bone-loss or bone-softening. These two potentially dangerous conditions are otherwise known as osteoporosis and osteomalacia. Consuming adequate amounts of calcium can make a big difference in halting the progression of these diseases. Since yogurt contains so much calcium it is the ideal snack food for anyone who wants to prevent bone problems down the road.

Consuming yogurt will make the skin glow with good health. This is due to the protein content of this food. Protein is responsible for the regeneration of every cell in the body. Often when someone has loose and flabby skin, it is nothing more than a protein deficiency. Protein is responsible for the proper formation of collagen and elastin in the body and skin. When enough protein is present in the diet the skin will be firm and elastic. It is possible to take years off the appearance of a person by increasing the protein intake in the diet to an adequate level.

Yogurt has been used for many years as a beauty treatment in the form of masks and facial packs. There are many salons that give yogurt facials to clients. The reason this works so well is because the lactic acid contained in the yogurt has the same action as a mild peeling does. It gets rid of the dead surface layer of skin and reveals smooth beautiful skin underneath. Cleopatra was known for bathing in milk. This apparently made her skin very soft. This makes sense since the milk contains the same lactic acid that the yogurt does. Honey has also often been added to the yogurt mask because it has soothing and healing properties.

Yogurt health benefits have been noted for centuries. The people of the world that eat a lot of this food tend to live very long and healthy lives. Many are robust well into their nineties and beyond. The immune system is greatly enhanced by the consumption of this food, so it is no wonder that yogurt eaters live such healthy lives. Yogurt gives energy to the body because it enhances the overall health and well-being. When a person feels well she has more energy to accomplish the daily tasks.

There is a reason why this fermented food has been so popular for so many centuries. Perhaps the people that lived centuries ago did not know the scientific reason behind why something worked, but they were certainly able to observe the benefits. Eating a healthy diet of wholegrain foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables is healthy start. Adding fermented milk products will only enhance the benefits of an already healthy diet. There are many yogurt products to choose from. It is really up to the individual to decide which the best product will be. One thing that is abundantly clear is that there are many benefits of yogurt.

Maximize Energy With The Benefits Of Anti-Oxidants And Caffeine In Green Tea

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There are many anti-oxidants and a small dose of caffeine in green tea. It has been used in Chinese medicine for years to heal and prevent a wide range of ailments. The level of stimulant in this tea is lower than that in coffee. Therefore it can be used throughout the day but should be avoided before bed time. Consuming this beverage will give you doses that are nearly half that of coffee, depending on the brand and how strong you make the tea.

The benefits of this drink can be divided into different categories. It is used for weight loss, improved health, and for its ability to increase energy levels. Though the caffeine is in smaller amounts, it may be just enough to give you a lift in the middle of the day or to give you the boost you need to finish your work.

Does Green Tea Have Caffeine?

The answer is yes, it does. However, it is in much smaller amounts than other beverages, particularly coffee and soft drinks.

caffeine in green tea

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The health benefits of this drink are numerous. It contains a powerful anti-oxidant called EGCG. This is an anti-oxidant in the same category as the anti-oxidant found in red wine. The french drink plenty of red wine with meals and consume diets high in fat. Yet they have less heart disease than in other countries. This is due to the effects of the anti-oxidant and its ability to reduce the effects of a fatty diet and smoking.

THe CGCG is a polyphenol similar to the one in red wine. Consuming it with meals has a similar effect on the heart and in reducing the likelihood of experiencing heart disease. Along with reducing the effects of a fatty diet, EGCG can also lower LDL cholesterol, or the bad cholesterol known for contributing to plaque build up in arteries. At the same time it can increase the level of HDL cholesterol which is the type considered healthy in combating heart disease. Overall, the drink is good for the heart for most people.

The anti-oxidant EGCG is known for combating cancer by killing the cancer cells without hurting healthy tissue. The drink has been researched extensively in Asia and in the United States, resulting in the conclusion that is can help fight against a number of cancers, including cancer of the esophagus.

Another benefit of drinking this herb is that is can reduce or eliminate infection causing bacteria. The properties in the tea leaves fight bacteria effectively. Drinking a cup each day may help prevent infections like strep or tonsillitis if consumed every day, particularly during the Winter months when people tend to come down with more illnesses.

Fighting off bacteria is something everyone wants to be able to do. Taking antibiotics after an infection occurs has more side effects than drinking something that will prevent the infection. For people prone to frequent infections drinking the tea or taking capsules daily can help balance the immune system and help it fight off even the most severe types of bacteria. It can also be taken along with antibiotics without interfering with their action. This is good news for those who want to combat infections and get back to their normal routines as quickly as possible.

Miracle Elixir?

Other illnesses the substance is said to help improve are arthritis due to autoimmune disorder and those that interfere with the normal function of the immune system. The substance works on these types of illnesses by restoring balance and normal function to the immune system.

It is not known exactly how the drink works on other minor health issues but the Chinese have taken this herb for headaches and depression for centuries. Most people take a few ibuprofen or reach for a bottle of Excedrin for headaches. If a person takes them on a regular basis stomach upset and pain can occur. This drink provides a more natural relief for headaches that does not involve pills or prescription medications. Whether the headaches are from stress or some other cause trying some green tea the next time you experience a headache is worth the effort.

Depression can be severe or mild. Many people suffer from the blues occasionally when the weather changes or due to some stress related cause like work or family issues. When depression is not severe drinking a cup or two of this herb may help put you in a better mood and you may find you are better able to handle stress at work or at home.

lightining boltGreen tea caffeine has its benefits for those who want a boost of energy but do not like the shakiness that can occur when drinking coffee. It is also a substance that has been studied for weight loss. Some studies have shown that when combined with exercise and a healthy diet people can lose more weight by drinking the tea.

Need More Reason To Take A Sip?

There are many other benefits of drinking green tea that are often not mentioned. It is inexpensive, even when purchased in a high quality brand of leaves or tea bags. This means that even people on limited budgets can experience the health benefits of the herb. Many grocery stores carry tea bags and bottle products. Health food and natural foods stores may also carry the product as tea leaves. It is less expensive than many other supplements on the market and can be made into a tasty drink to be enjoyed in the morning, during a break, or during the early afternoon when people tend to feel sluggish.

It can be a great way to pick yourself up after a hard workout. Because it is readily available in many different products through different sources it is convenient for many people to drink. Those who want to enjoy a cup of green tea at any time can keep bags at home and carry a few in a hand bag or briefcase. The best way to prepare the tea is to steam it. Avoid boiling so the anti-oxidants within the leaves are not destroyed.

Because it has powerful anti-oxidants, green tea can help you achieve younger and healthier looking skin. Many skin creams and other preparations have anti-oxidants designed to prevent free radicals from causing creases and lines due to aging. Drinking something that works from the inside out can keep skin looking healthy without an extensive daily regimen of creams and lotions. It is much easier to combat aging skin this way as it takes less time and does not require purchasing costly solutions.

Green tea is one of those drinks that can benefit nearly anyone who tries it. For those concerned about health issues like heart disease or high cholesterol it is a better drink to consume than sodas or coffee. For those concerned with immune function drinking the substance may help prevent the typical seasonal illnesses. Those fighting infections from surgical procedures may experience faster healing by drinking the tea while taking antibiotic regiments.

It is a natural supplement that can aid in weight loss and can easily be added along with a healthy meal plan and a weekly exercise regiment. It is inexpensive, easy to find, and simple to prepare for most people who want an excellent natural supplement to improve overall health.

For information on side effects and medical uses of green tea, visit Web M.D. – Green Tea.

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