Have you ever read the list of ingredients in a typical energy drink? You could sprain your tongue trying to pronounce some of those words. What are these ingredients? What do they do? Where do they come from? A quick review of some of the most popular ingredients in energy drinks shows that they aren’t as scary as they look. In fact, they are essential to life.
GLUCURONOLACTONE
Glucuronolactone (pronounced gloo-cur- ON-o-LAC-tone) is a natural metabolite found in the human body. It is produced by the metabolization of glucose in the liver, and has been clinically shown to reduce sleepiness and sleep-related traffic accidents. It is widely known to improve mental performance, reaction time, concentration and memory. It also acts as an antidepressant and stimulant.
Although our bodies manufacture Glucuronolactone naturally, and deficiencies are rare, supplementation can benefit those who want increased energy levels and feelings of well-being.
Rumors once abounded that Glucuronolactone was a drug manufactured by the U.S. government and administered to soldiers during the Viet Nam War to give them a sense of well-being during combat. The same rumor assumed that the drug was banned because of several deaths due to brain tumors. The rumor has since been proven false. Because it occurs naturally, Glucuronolactone is not a drug, nor has the FDA banned its use.
TAURINE
Because of its name, Taurine (Latin Taurus = bull) was once rumored to be manufactured from bull semen. This, however, is not true. Taurine is a naturally occurring chemical substance present is animal tissue (It was first isolated from ox bile in 1827 by German scientists). It’s also found in smaller concentrations in plants and fungi.
The human body normally manufactures ample amounts of Taurine, but prematurely-born infants may be deficient. As a result, Taurine is often added to infant formulas. Food sources for Taurine include meat, fish and dairy product. Vitamin B6 is required by the body to synthesize Taurine from other nutrients. Adult humans have high concentrations of Taurine in white blood cells, skeletal muscles, the heart and central nervous system. It plays a role in digestion, and is used to process potassium, calcium and sodium in the body, as well as to maintain the integrity of cell membranes. There is also evidence that Taurine reduces blood pressure.
Scientists have investigated Taurine for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy, macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, alcoholism and cystic fibrosis.
INOSITOL
Another naturally occurring chemical substance, Inositol plays an important role in the health of cell membranes, especially in those of the brain, bone marrow, eyes and intestines. It is classified as a member of the vitamin B complex.
In the human body, Inositol is required for cellular health and is found primarily in the lens of the eye and in the heart. Inositol is manufactured by our bodies and found in food sources such as wheat germ, brewer’s yeast, bananas, liver, brown rice, oat flakes, nuts, raisins and vegetables.
Some studies have suggested that Inositol supplementation can help people suffering from such problems as bulimia, panic disorders and bipolar depression. It’s also been shown to be an effective treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is equal in effectiveness to prescription drugs and is virtually free of side effects. Inositol is also said to promote healthy hair and hair growth. It helps in controlling estrogen levels and may help reduce blood cholesterol levels.
MALIC ACID
Another naturally occurring chemical our bodies require (and produce) is Malic Acid. It is a biochemical product of the Kreb’s Cycle, a chain of reactions involved in the production of cellular energy. During exhaustive physical activity, concentrations of Malate, a molecule that contains Malic Acid, falls significantly. Malic Acid supplementation, especially when combined with magnesium, can boost energy levels.
The body synthesizes Malic Acid during the process of converting carbohydrates to energy. It also helps remove high levels of phosphorous and aluminum from the body. The main food sources of Malic Acid are fruits, especially apples, which contain the highest concentrations.
There is some evidence that Malic Acid may be considered a treatment for fibromyalgia when combined with magnesium. It may also help individuals who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome.
Glucuronolactone, Taurine, Inositol and Malic Acid may not sound like something you want to offer to your members, but as energy drink ingredients they can’t be beat. Our bodies require these chemicals for proper cellular functioning and overall health. Offering body supplements in the form of energy drinks can help your members increase energy levels and experience better workouts.
Carl Sperber is the Marketing Director for Living Essentials / 5-Hour Energy. For more information contact Brandon Bohland at 1.888.960.9495, or by email at brandon@chaserplus.com.
