With so many energy drinks on the market, it’s time to ask the question: do they really add to your healthy lifestyle?
What’s in your energy drink?
With so many energy drinks on the market, it’s important to start by looking at the label. Some energy drinks contain almost zero calories, whilst others have a significant amount of carbohydrates. Certain formulas are heavy on the caffeine. Others will have extra ingredients which could benefit a fitness lifestyle (like amino acids and protein). If you are watching your weight, pay attention to the calorie count per can or bottle (not just per 100ml).
How do energy drinks support a healthy lifestyle?
The main benefit of energy drinks is that they can give you a boost when you exercise. If you start your workout feeling tired and lethargic, you might be tempted to cut it short or reduce your effort. An energy drink could give you the extra push to keep going, so you burn more calories and get better results.
Are there any risks?
Energy drinks contain ingredients which are researched, tested, and safe. But you need to know your personal tolerance levels for ingredients such as caffeine, green tea, beta alanine, and taurine. Read the label and be confident that you know what you are drinking. And remember that having an energy drink before an afternoon or evening workout could really affect your sleep!
Make energy drinks part of a healthy living plan
It’s easy to build up a tolerance to energy drinks, so only use them when you need that extra boost. Be sure to drink plenty of water, and fuel your body with a nutritious diet. Energy drinks should be an occasional supplement, not the main source of energy for your hard-working body.