Natural Alternatives to Energy Drinks
Are you one of the many people I know who reach for a Red Bull energy drink when they feel a little tired? Many Americans are consuming these caffeine laden trendy beverages, but are they really that good for you?
Energy drinks like red bull, monster, cocaine, and hype energy contain large doses of caffeine, sugar, taurine and other legal stimulants. Some of the legal stimulants may include ephedrine, guarana and ginseng.
Caffeine is the main ingredient in most energy drinks. Excess quantities of caffeine may cause nervousness, irritability, and insomnia.
It’s true energy drinks are stimulating, but they have also been reported to increase heart rate, blood pressure, dehydrate the body, and prevent sleep. None of this sounds really good for you.
In addition, there seems to be a trend in many bars to mix energy drinks with alcohol. This is a dangerous mix. Energy drinks are a stimulant and alcohol is a depressant. As a result the stimulant properties of the energy drink mask the feeling of intoxication and can lead the person to drink well beyond a safe limit.
There are healthier alternatives to energy drinks to give you a natural boost of energy.
Eat a good breakfast — This starts up your metabolism and gets you going for the day.
Eat every few hours — This will prevent your blood for sugar from dropping too low and lose energy.
Drink lots of water — If you feel fatigued it is probably because you’re a little dehydrated. Be sure you drink your 8-10 glasses of water every day.
Avoid eating sweets – Sugar in your favorite food and candy causes blood sugar swings that will cause fatigue.
A little exercise — Exercise will get your blood flowing and even maybe get you into shape. It will also increase your metabolism and stamina.
Finally, get enough sleep — if you are tired during the day it may be because you’re not getting a good night’s sleep. Be sure to get at least seven hours of sleep every night to make sure that your body gets the rest and needs.
Tags: caffeine, energy drink, ephedrine, ginseng, guarana, irritability, nervousness, red bull energy drink
