New Study Shows 5-Hour Energy May Not Live Up to Its Name

BOZEMAN, Mont. - Jan. 29, 2015 - PRLog -- A recently published study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition reported that the leading energy shot may not deliver on its claim of extended energy. Sports science researchers from Montana State University reported the results of a study comparing two energy shots, one containing a caffeine, taurine and niacin combination (5-hour Energy) and a second containing caffeine, protein and carbohydrate combination (Body Glove SURGE).

“What was surprising to us was the lack of effect seen with 5-Hour Energy, especially since previous studies have shown that caffeine consumed alone improves exercise performance and mental focus,” said Dr. John Seifert, Associate Professor of Health and Human Performance. “The results indicate that the combination of carbohydrate and protein with caffeine, as seen in Body Glove SURGE, provides greater endurance and faster reaction time.”

In this study, 14 recreational cyclists exercised for a total of 120 minutes while ingesting either 5-Hour Energy (caffeine, taurine, niacin shot), Body Glove SURGE (caffeine, protein, carbohydrate) or a placebo.  The treatments were administered in a double-blind random fashion.  The scientists found that the Body Glove SURGE was more effective at improving exercise performance and increasing reaction time, a measure of mental fatigue, than 5-Hour Energy. 5-Hour Energy, performed no better than a placebo.

“The study was designed to simulate real world conditions,” continued Dr. Seifert. “Our results suggest that adding taurine and niacin, common ingredients found in many commercially available energy products, may neutralize the positive effects of caffeine.”

The results of the study also confirmed other studies reporting the positive benefits of caffeine in reducing brain and muscle fatigue are enhanced when it is combined with small amounts of carbohydrate and protein. This study was conducted by Montana State University and supported by a grant from PacificHealth Laboratories, which was not involved in study design or data analysis.

For more information or to read the study in full: http://www.jissn.com/content/11/1/56

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