Energy drinks are consumed by 30% to 50% of adolescents and young adults. The manufacturers claim they are safe.

Researchers at the University of Miami, in Florida reviewed the evidence and came to a different conclusion. (more…)

Guarana (Paullinia cupana) extracts are popular in energy drinks, teas, and capsules.

In this study, taking guarana improved mental performance and reduced the mental fatigue associated with tasks requiring a sustained mental effort.

How’d it do that? (more…)

The American Botanical Council (ABC) has published a 40-page review of an emerging new product and market category called “energy shots.” The report focuses on shots sold mainly in the United States and the United Kingdom. (more…)

Recently, 4 patients experienced seizures multiple times following heavy consumption of energy drinks. The authors proposed that energy drinks rich in caffeine, taurine, and guarana seed extract could have provoked these seizures.

Here’s what we know about guarana thanks to researchers from the University of Florida at Gainesville and the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) in Amazonas, Brazil. (more…)

In preparation for the upcoming weight management conferences in Europe, here is what we know about the value of herbals as an aid to weight loss.

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