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The Antagonistic Effects of Caffeine and Taurine in Energy Drinks
Energy drinks have become a billion-dollar industry, challenging the eye-popping popularity of Starbucks and the likes. Obviously, the main component of energy drinks is caffeine, with some being more potent than others. However, many manufacturers feel the need to add supplemental ingredients to their drinks to “boost” their energizing effects. Whether this is for marketing or real effect is left to be determined.
One of the most popular additives to energy drinks is the non-essential amino acid taurine. Taurine is thought to modulate cell volume, muscle contraction and aid in antioxidant defenses from stress in muscle. Unfortunately for the college student during finals week, the scientific literature does not support using taurine to enhance the vitalizing effects of your caffeinated beverage.
Not only does taurine have little effect on its own, but it may also have a detrimental effect on the function of your precious caffeine!
Energy drinks have become a billion-dollar industry, challenging the eye-popping popularity of Starbucks and the likes. Obviously, the main component of energy drinks is caffeine, with some being more potent than others. However, many manufacturers feel the need to add supplemental ingredients to their drinks to “boost” their energizing effects. Whether this is for marketing or real effect is left to be determined.
One of the most popular additives to energy drinks is the non-essential amino acid taurine. Taurine is thought to modulate cell volume, muscle contraction and aid in antioxidant defenses from stress in muscle. Unfortunately for the college student during finals week, the scientific literature does not support using taurine to enhance the vitalizing effects of your caffeinated beverage.
Not only does taurine have little effect on its own, but it may also have a detrimental effect on the function of your precious caffeine!
