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The Truth About Energy Drinks
After a long day chauffeuring kids to school and soccer practice, you might be tempted to reach for one of those energy or sports drinks that line supermarket shelves. But before you take a sip, consider whether those handy pick-me-ups really provide the kind of energy boost you need.
Energy drinks contain a variety of ingredients that are said to help increase metabolism. The perceived lift in energy, however, comes from caffeine. Each eight-ounce can contains an average of 80 milligrams of caffeine, the same amount you would find in a cup of coffee. But too much caffeine ingested too quickly can lead to rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, agitation, irritability, headaches, sleeplessness and even dehydration. Although sports drinks don’t contain caffeine, they also might not be the right way to revitalize after a Pilates class. Their primary benefit is that they replenish the electrolytes you burn during vigorous exercise, however, beware of their high sugar and calorie content that can cause weight gain.
What’s a better way to rejuvenate? Medical experts and nutritionists advise staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water at all times and eating a piece of fruit after you exercise. Another healthy choice? Chocolate milk. Researchers have discovered that this kid-friendly favorite provides an ideal blend of protein and sugars, not to mention calcium and vitamin D.
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