Energy drink vs. energy drink
What is the difference between an energy drink and a power drink? Which one should you choose to optimize your hydration while exercising?
Energy drinks, also known as sports drinks, are subject to strict regulations that dictate numerous parameters (ingredients to be observed, specific labeling requirements, etc.) in order to adapt to nutritional needs during intense sporting activity. This is not the case for energy drinks, which have a "trade name" with no regulatory definition. Let's review the major differences.
the absence of stimulants
Stimulants such as caffeine, taurine, D-glucuronolactone (a form of sugar), plant extracts (ginseng, guarana, mate) are present in energy drinks but not in energy drinks.
In addition to their stimulant effects, some of these substances, such as caffeine, consumed in excessive quantities, can cause numerous adverse effects: anxiety, tachycardia, sleep disorders, etc.
According to ANSES (1), due to the diuretic effect of caffeine, energy drinks increase the loss of water and mineral salts and increase the risk of heat stroke.
an isotonic composition
An energy drink, when isotonic, contains roughly the same amount of carbohydrates, water, and salt as blood. This characteristic (called osmolarity) optimizes the intestinal assimilation of nutrients such as carbohydrates and sodium, as well as the compensation of losses due to exercise and sweating.
This is the case with our Booster + energy drink.
Conversely, non-isotonic energy drinks are harder to digest and can cause stomach aches.
A glycogen-boosting exercise drink . Isotonic, it contains amino acids (BCAAs),...
the presence of micro and macronutrients
Par macro et micronutriments, on entend vitamines, minéraux, anti-oxydants et BCAA.
Contrairement aux boissons énergisantes, les boissons énergétiques sont supplémentées pour la plupart en micro et macronutriments pour répondre au maximum aux pertes occasionnées par l’activité physique afin de conserver le plus longtemps possible un taux optimal.
The taste
Studies show that a drink with a pleasant flavor is more effective because it will be consumed more easily. A correct dosage of flavors and sugar allows for a good taste, not too sweet, without nausea. Energy drinks are sodas enriched with stimulants and high doses of flavors and sugars (mostly unrefined and in the form of sweeteners). They are very sweet and generally nauseating if consumed excessively.
Presented with great marketing and sponsorship by manufacturers as having stimulating properties both physically and intellectually, energy drinks do not in any way meet the body's needs and are, according to ANSES, not recommended before or during sports. To optimize your hydration, opt for an energy drink, like our Authentic Booster +!
"Energy drinks are all-in-one drinks, ideal for sports"
A glycogen-boosting exercise drink . Isotonic, it contains amino acids (BCAAs),...
(1) French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety “Assessment of the health risks of so-called energy drinks”, September 6, 2013.
Article written by Emmanuelle Buisson, dietician-nutritionist
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