5-hour-Energy is a small two-ounce liquid supplement that claims to provide hours of energy without a crash effect later. It boasts containing only four calories and no sugar. This supplement includes several amino acids and high amounts of B vitamins combined with a dose of caffeine. Let’s look closer at the ingredients list to see how the elements of their “Energy Blend” create an energized sensation in the body. We will also be looking at the preservatives, additives and flavorings in this beverage to determine their safety.
Energy Blend:
Taurine: is a building block of all the other amino acids. It is a key component in helping the liver to produce bile, and is needed for the absorption of fatsoluble vitamins. It is vital for the proper utilization of minerals such as sodium, calcium, and magnesium. It has a protective effect on the brain, particularly if dehydrated. It has historically been used to treat anxiety, epilepsy, and seizures.
Glucuronolactone: is a naturally occurring chemicle that is produced by the metabolism of glucose in the human liver. It has properties that increase the feeling of alertness. It is often used as a detoxicant.
Malic Acid: is an organic compound also known as dicarboxylic acid. It was first isolated in unripe apples and and is found in many other unripe fruits. It is the active ingredient in many sour or tart candies and processed foods. Excessive consumption of malic acid can cause irritation of the mouth; but it is otherwise considered to be safe.
N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine: is a more easily absorbable form of the amino acid L-tyrosine. L-tyrosine is a precursor for several substances made in the body, including, neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. It elevates mood, keeps stress levels low and contributes to a feeling of alertness.
L-Phenylalanine: is an essential amino acid. It is able to cross the brain-blood barrier, and thus has a direct effect on brain chemistry. It relates closely to the central nervous system, can elevate mood, aid in memory and learning, and suppress the appetite.
Caffeine: gives a heightened sense of alertness. Too much caffeine in the body has been shown to interfere with calcium absorption.
Citicoline: is a psycho-stimulant/nootropic, which induces temporary improvements in either mental or physical function, or both, and contributes to memory and cognitive enhancement. Studies have suggested that citicoline supplements increase dopamine receptor densities, which help to improve focus and mental energy.
Vitamins B12, B6, Niacin (B3) and Folic Acid (B9): The supplement contains 8333 percent daily value of B12 alone. Some skeptics have raised concerns about the safety of supplementing B vitamins at such high levels. So far no dangerous adverse reactions have been reported. There is a risk of experiencing what is called a “Niacin flush” when high levels of Niacin in the body cause the skin to become hot and red, temporarily. This is considered to be a detoxification mechanism of the body.
Other Ingredients:
Sucralose: An artificial sweetener sold under the name Splenda, is one of the up-and-coming “next generation” of high-intensity sugar substitutes. It is non-caloric and about 600 times sweeter than sucrose (white table sugar). It is produced by chlorinating sugar (sucrose). This involves chemically changing the structure of the sugar molecules by substituting three chlorine atoms for three hydroxyl groups. There are safety concerns for diabetics, and can cause shrunken thymus glands (up to 40-percent shrinkage), enlarged liver and kidneys, spleen issues, reduced growth rate, decreased red blood cell count, aborted pregnancy, decreased fetal body weights, and diarrhea.
Potassium Sorbate and Sodium Benzoate: both preservatives meant to inhibit bacteria and molds, increasing the product’s shelf life. Both preservatives are considered to be safe by the FDA.
EDTA: stands for Ethylenediamine Tetraacetic Acid and comes in a salt form. It is used as a sequestrant in carbonated beverages and as a metal deactivator in vegetable oils. EDTA is used in cooked and canned meats as a preservative. It can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes causing asthma, and rashes. As a food additive it is being studied by the FDA for toxicity. It can cause kidney and errors in muscular activity.
The makers of 5-hour-Energy discourage the use of its product for pregnant or nursing women, children, and individuals diagnosed with PKU.
Follow Us