How a "Healthy" Energy Drink Works

How Vitamins are essential to Energy … and the XS Advantage

If you read What are vitamins and how do they work?, you know that vitamins are organic (carbon containing) molecules that mainly function as catalysts for reactions within the body. A catalyst is a substance that allows a chemical reaction to occur using less energy and less time than it would take under normal conditions.

The B-vitamin family contains diverse members necessary for healthy functioning of almost all body processes, Hence they fall into the group of “essential” nutrients. The actions of the B vitamins cover everything from energy production in the body, to maintaining blood vessels to hormone metabolism. Most B vitamins work together and, in many cases, provide the greatest benefit when supplemented together in the correct ratios.

The B vitamins act as coenzymes, compounds that unite with a protein component called an apoenzyme to form an active enzyme. The enzyme then acts as a catalyst in the chemical reactions that transfer energy from the basic food elements to the body. The B vitamins are a group of eight vitamins, which include thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), cyanocobalamin (B12), pantothenic acid and biotin. Most of the B vitamins have been recognized as coenzymes, and they all appear to be essential in facilitating the metabolic processes that are essential for life. These vitamins are essential for the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose, which provides us energy, the breakdown of fats and proteins, which aids the normal functioning of the nervous system, muscle tone in the stomach and intestinal tract, and healthy skin, hair, and eyes.

KREBS Cycle

Mitochondria are micro organelles ("little organs") found in virtually all cells in the human body, except red blood cells. The 20-2500 mitochondria per cell produce the majority of the body's energy (ATP) by means of an intricate and complex process called cellular respiration. The production of ATP within the mitochondria involves two metabolic cycles known as the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, which is also called the "Krebs" or "citric acid" cycle, and the oxidative phosphorylation electron transport chain, commonly abbreviated as ETC.

Many of the enzymes in the cells of organisms need other helpers to function. These non-protein enzyme helpers are called cofactors and can include substances like iron, zinc, or copper. If a cofactor is an organic molecule, it then is called a coenzyme. Many of the vitamins needed by our bodies are used as coenzymes to help our enzymes to do their jobs. Vitamin B1(thiamine) is a coenzyme used in removing CO2 from various organic compounds. B2(riboflavin) is a component of FAD (or FADH2), one of the chemicals used to transport electrons from the Krebs cycle to the electron transport chain. Vitamin B3(niacin) is a component of NAD+ (or NADH) which is the major transporter of electrons from glycolysis and the Krebs cycle to the electron transport chain. Without enough of these B vitamins, our ability to get the energy out of our food would come to a grinding halt! B6(pyridoxine), B12(cobalamin), pantothenic acid, folic acid, and biotin are all other B vitamins which serve as coenzymes at various points in metabolizing our food. Interestingly, B12 has cobalt in it, a mineral which we need in only very minute quantities, but whose absence can cause symptoms of deficiency.

Krebs Cycle is an eight step cycle that amongst other things, removes hydrogen and carbon-dioxide. It also produces a small amount of ATP.

The Electron Transport Chain is final process in the breakdown of foods. This is where most of the ATP is formed.

ATP is foundational energy for the cell.

This diagram below is from a midlevel biology course. Vitamins are at the core of process. Vitamins, (the right ones, available for use in ample amounts), are just as important to your energy production as the food (fuel) component (right composition, proportions, and availability).

Adaptogenic Herbs

Adaptogenic Herbs are arguably the most important Herbal Supplements in the world.

Adaptogenic Herbs have the ability to:

* Enhance the body and mind’s capacity to adapt optimally and accurately to changes in the environment.
* Increase endurance
* Reduce fatigue
* Stimulate the immune system indirectly
* Build the body’s resistance to non-specific stresses such as chemicals in the environment, overwork, poor diet, and emotional factors
* Boost immunity by supporting and balancing the endocrine (glandular) system
* Support adrenal functions
* Help cells to use oxygen more efficiently
* Increase cellular respiration
* Stimulate a specific white blood cell called a macrophage, which eats up or destroys pathogens in the blood, and is our first line of defense. Stimulating this aspect of our immune system protects us from colds, flu, and other types of infections.

Here are the Adaptogenic Herbs in the XS Energy Drink:

Panax Quinquefolium

Medicinal uses ranging from cancer fighter to an aphrodisiac for improving ADHD symptoms.

Eleutheroccocus Senticosus (Siberian Ginseng)

Used for stress, nervousness and irritability. Counteracts exhaustion, insomnia and mild depression. Improves endurance and energy metabolism for performance. Improves cerebral cortical functions. Sensory motor reaction times are shortened and there is a decrease in mistakes while distinguishing positive from negative signals. Reduces general sickness. Normalizes the weights of the Thyroid and Adrenal glands (usually shrink under stress) and eliminates any evidence of stress upon the functions of these glands.

Panax Ginseng

Most noted for its anti-aging and anti-fatigue effects. Appears to have some anti-tumor effects. Enhances overall immunity including antibody response, natural killer cell activity, interferon production, and promotes phagocytosis. Has shown some ability to protect the body during radiation therapy.

Echinacea Purpurea

Considered to be antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, depurative, a digestive tonic, an immune stimulant, and vulnerary.
Schisandra

Shown to have a stimulatory effect on the central nervous system without being over stimulating. Is considered a general tonic, a detoxifier of chemical toxicity including chemotherapy. Is an antioxidant and a powerful liver protector.

Astragalus

Has been used in China for thousands of years. Increases the total number of white blood cells. Strengthens the activity of macrophages. Promotes cellular immunity. Currently, Astragalus is being researched in HIV and AIDS related symptoms.

Reishi

A medicinal mushroom used for over 4000 years in China and Japan. Used in the treatment of hepatitis, cancer, hypertension, arthritis, insomnia, asthma, bronchitis, and ulcers. Pharmacological effects include analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-tumor, antiviral, cardiotonic, expectorant, liver protective, and have been shown to increase production of interleukin 1 and 2, increase white cell count, and enhance natural killer cell activity.

Amino Acids

Taurine

Inadequate levels of Taurine are common in those with chemical sensitivities, allergies, and poor diets. It is the major amino acid required by the liver for removal of toxic chemicals and metabolites from the body. Helpful for fatty liver, high blood pressure and cholesterol, gall bladder problems, alcohol withdrawal, hepatitis and jaundice. Helps the liver excrete excessive cholesterol out of the body through bile, thus, is an aid to weight control and cardiovascular health.

Tyrosine

Boosts neurotransmitter levels. Boosting effect upon the production of thyroid hormone, which can help metabolism. Excellent antidepressant for those with sluggish metabolism and excess weight.

Glutamine

Required for phase two detoxification in the liver. Required in increased amount by those who consume excessive alcohol. Able to reduce alcohol craving. Helpful for intestinal disorders such as peptic ulcers and conditions of the lining of the bowel. Used as fuel by the brain and by the white blood cells. Is essential for the lymphocytes to fight viruses such as hepatitis B & C.

Sweetener

Ace-K (Acesulfame Potassium)

Non-caloric, non-cariogenic (does not promote tooth decay), non-nutritive sweetener that delivers powerful, great-tasting sweetness (approximately 200 times as sweet as sucrose). Preferred because its sweet taste is perceived quickly, does not linger, and does not persist longer than the taste of the product. It provides excellent sugar-like taste.

Caffeine

XS has the same amount of caffeine as you would get in a strong cup of coffee.To clarify the wording on the can, “Not recommended for persons sensitive to caffeine”, If someone is sensitive to caffeine we would recommend the caffeine free XS drink variety.