Get the Right Boost from Your Juice: Energy Drinks Decoded

CookingLight.com

Energy is something all creatures need and something Americans apparently believe they are in terribly short supply of, as exhibited by the amazing profusion of flavored waters containing antioxidants, electrolytes, vitamins, and shots of caffeine. These drinks-and the ingredients within-can be broken down into a few basic categories.

THE CALORIE QUESTION

To provide actual bona fide energy, a drink has to contain calories, and that usually means sugar. If you're concerned about calories-and if that's one reason you're on the treadmill at the gym in the first place-read the labels.

First, check serving size. Some beverages have 2 to 3 servings per bottle or can, so if your drink is not calorie-free, serving size is important. Calories in energy drinks most often come from sugar: 4 calories per gram. A 12-ounce Coke, for reference, has 140 calories.

Second, ask if these are the right kind of calories. The body perceives calories delivered in liquid form as less physiologically satisfying than those found in solid foods. It may be better to drink a noncaloric drink and eat a fiber-rich energy bar.

See More: The Best Foods for All-Day Energy

Stimulators: The Coffee Alternatives

Caffeine is the key ingredient, sometimes from ingredients such as guarana, cacao, or mate. Not an energy source per se, but a nervous-system stimulant that does provide a short-term boost. If the amount of caffeine is listed, here's a reference: An 8-ounce cup of coffee has about 150mg.

Replenishers: Added Electrolytes

"Electrolytes" is the umbrella term for minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride that assist in cellular function and regulate fluid balance-life-saving in cases of severe fluid loss. They are also lost through sweat during exercise, but unless you're an endurance athlete, tap water and a balanced diet will supply all you need, even after a 45-minute Spin class. These come in caloric and noncaloric versions.

See More: Zeroing In On the Best Energy Bars

Replenishers: Added Electrolytes

"Electrolytes" is the umbrella term for minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride that assist in cellular function and regulate fluid balance-life-saving in cases of severe fluid loss. They are also lost through sweat during exercise, but unless you're an endurance athlete, tap water and a balanced diet will supply all you need, even after a 45-minute Spin class. These come in caloric and noncaloric versions.

Read the Rest: Energy Drinks Decoded

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