Energy Drinks in Moderation

Energy drink products like Red Bull and 5 Hour Energy are unknown territory, thanks to the hands-off approach by the FDA. The Food and Drug Administration only take an interest in energy products if there is a hazard involved.

For example, the FDA intervened when HydroxyCut, the fat burning pill, was deemed to pose a risk of severe liver damage. HydroxyCut was pulled from the market.

However, when it comes to energy supplements, good data can be difficult to come by.

There are a few things we do know for sure. Like most things in life, energy products should be consumed in moderation. The amount of caffeine in 5 Hour Energy for example isn't much more than that of a cup of coffee. And the B-vitamin complex is not strong enough to do serious harm to anyone if the drinks are used as directed. On the other hand, if you decide to drink 12 at a time, you're going to get sick. You'll get the jitters from the caffeine, and the maker's website lists a risk of "niacin flush reaction" from the Vitamin B3. The effects of niacin flush are temporary. The jittery, over-caffeinated feeling however can increase the risk of heartbeat irregularities.

The main thing is to use just as much as you need, and not use the energy products in conjunction with one another. Don't take a shot of 5 Hour Energy and wash it down with two Red Bulls and a cup of coffee!

All-Day Energy Spray and its Xytine formula are made from all natural ingredients that are designed to give you a boost of energy and clarity. It is not a substitute for quality sleep. All-Day Energy Spray extreme athletes like wrestlers, skateboarders and BMX bikers, as well as students who need extra clarity at exam time. Athletes know taking care of their bodies with proper rest and nutrition is crucial to peak performance. This should apply to everyone who seeks a boost from an energy enhancing product.

When questioned about the risk of overdosing on 5 Hour Energy, its maker said, "There is no law against stupidity and there is always that person out there that is going to push the envelope and consume too many..."

Don't be that person. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated (especially important for coffee drinkers and users of diet pills, as they are dehydrating by nature), and as with all things, use energy products in moderation.

By Epi Gaia