What is an Energy Drink?

Introduction An energy drink is a type of functional beverage containing stimulant compounds, usually caffeine, which is marketed as providing mental and physical stimulation (marketed as “energy”, but distinct from food energy). They may or may not be carbonated and may also contain sugar, other sweeteners, or herbal extracts, among numerous other possible ingredients. They… Read More

What is a Smart Drink?

Introduction Smart drinks, also known as nootropic drinks, are beverages made from a mix of fruit juices, vitamins, herbal supplements, and a variety of amino acid supplements. Refer to Functional Beverage, Enhanced Water, Sports Drink, and Energy Drink. What is meant by Nootropic? Nootropics – colloquially brain supplements, smart drugs and cognitive enhancers – are… Read More

What is Enhanced Water?

Introduction Enhanced water is a category of beverages that are marketed as water with added ingredients, such as natural or artificial flavours, sugar, sweeteners, vitamins and minerals. Most enhanced waters are lower in calories than non-diet soft drinks. Refer to Functional Beverage, Smart Drink, Sports Drinks, and Energy Drink. PepsiCo, The Coca-Cola Company and other… Read More

What is a Functional Beverage?

Introduction A functional beverage is a conventional liquid food marketed to highlight specific product ingredients or supposed health effects. Beverages marketed as “functional” include dairy drinks, sports and performance drinks, energy drinks, ready-to-drink teas, kombucha, “smart” drinks, fortified fruit drinks, plant milks, and enhanced water. Although these beverages may serve to hydrate a consumer, they… Read More

What is a Nutraceutical?

Introduction Nutraceutical is a marketing term used to imply a pharmaceutical effect from a compound or food product that has not been scientifically confirmed or approved to have clinical benefits. In the United States, nutraceuticals are considered and regulated as a subset of foods (such as dietary supplements) by the US Food and Drug Administration… Read More

An Overview of Bodybuilding Supplements

Introduction Bodybuilding supplements are dietary supplements commonly used by those involved in bodybuilding, weightlifting, mixed martial arts, and athletics for the purpose of facilitating an increase in lean body mass. Bodybuilding supplements may contain ingredients that are advertised to increase a person’s muscle, body weight, athletic performance, and decrease a person’s percent body fat for… Read More