At a glance
Summary
This energy drink contains beneficial ingredients like taurine and beta alanine, which can support athletic performance. However, it is penalized for containing sucralose, an artificial sweetener with potential health concerns, and sodium benzoate, a preservative that can form harmful compounds. The presence of natural flavors also raises transparency issues, contributing to its ultra-processed nature.
Key ingredients 12
TaurineGood
Taurine is an amino acid that supports neurological development and regulates water and mineral levels in the blood. It is often included in energy drinks for its potential to improve athletic performance. Taurine is generally considered safe and beneficial in moderate amounts.
Benefits
May improve athletic performance and support neurological health.
Beta AlanineGood
Beta alanine is a non-essential amino acid that is known to enhance athletic performance by increasing muscle carnosine levels. It can help reduce muscle fatigue during high-intensity exercise. It is generally safe when consumed in recommended amounts.
Risks
May cause a harmless tingling sensation known as paresthesia.
Benefits
Enhances athletic performance and reduces muscle fatigue.
WaterNeutral
Water is a neutral ingredient that serves as the base for the beverage. It is essential for hydration but does not provide additional nutritional benefits. The quality of water can vary based on source and treatment, but no significant health concerns are associated with it in this context.
See more about Water →Citric AcidNeutral
Citric acid is used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in beverages. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and is generally recognized as safe. However, excessive consumption can lead to dental erosion.
Risks
May cause dental erosion if consumed in large quantities over time.
CaffeineNeutral
Caffeine is a stimulant that can enhance alertness and improve concentration. It is commonly used in energy drinks for its energizing effects. However, excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects such as jitteriness and increased heart rate.
Risks
Excessive consumption can cause jitteriness and increased heart rate.
Benefits
Enhances alertness and improves concentration.
Maca RootNeutral
Maca root is a plant-based ingredient often used for its potential to boost energy and stamina. It is considered an adaptogen, which may help the body adapt to stress. However, scientific evidence supporting these benefits is limited.
Benefits
May boost energy and stamina, though evidence is limited.
Sodium CitrateNeutral
Sodium citrate is used as an acidity regulator and emulsifier in beverages. It is generally recognized as safe and helps maintain the stability of the product. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Helps maintain product stability and regulate acidity.
Malic AcidNeutral
Malic acid is a naturally occurring acid used to enhance flavor and acidity in foods and beverages. It is generally recognized as safe and is found in many fruits. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and acidity without significant nutritional benefits.
Panax GinsengNeutral
Panax ginseng is an herbal ingredient believed to improve energy, focus, and overall well-being. While it is popular in traditional medicine, scientific evidence on its efficacy is mixed. It is generally considered safe in moderate amounts.
Benefits
May improve energy and focus, though evidence is mixed.
Natural FlavorBad
Natural flavors are often used to enhance taste but lack transparency regarding their specific components. They can contain a variety of chemicals and additives, which may not be disclosed. This lack of transparency raises concerns about potential allergens and additives.
Risks
Potential allergens and undisclosed additives may pose health risks.
SucraloseBad
Sucralose is an artificial sweetener used to provide sweetness without calories. It is chemically altered to be calorie-free, but concerns exist about its impact on gut health and potential to alter glucose and insulin levels. Long-term health effects are still being studied.
Risks
May impact gut health and alter glucose and insulin levels.
Benefits
Provides sweetness without adding calories.
Sodium BenzoateBad
Sodium benzoate is a preservative used to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life. It can form benzene, a known carcinogen, when combined with vitamin C under certain conditions. Its use is controversial due to potential health risks.
Risks
Can form benzene, a carcinogen, when combined with vitamin C.
Benefits
Extends shelf life by preventing spoilage.
Processing
Ultra-Processed Foods
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