This week I’m turning my attention to “energy” supplements. I get asked a lot about these quick fixes for energy when the body is just “dragging”, or when a patient complains about lack of energy to get through their day. Questions are similar to: “Hey Doc, what can I take to give me more energy?” After a series of questions to rule out depression, a poor diet, stress mis-management and the lack of an exercise routine – all of which can result in feeling a drop in available energy, I recommend supplementation.

Most of the drinks available to keep you going are loaded with caffeine, sugars, vitamins, or herbs that can be converted into a systemic stimulant. Even the drinks that are low or no-sugar, the caffeine content is so high it will give the “boost” to keep you going. So, mission accomplished – you get a caffeine surge that is perceived as a boost in energy and all is well. Or is it?

Caffeine is a psychoactive stimulant that acts on the central nervous system to temporarily boost your focus and delay sleepiness. The issue with caffeine is that tolerance develops quickly to it. Over time, more and more caffeine is needed to produce the same effect as brain chemistry adapts to caffeine’s persistent presence. As the brain chemistry is changed, when the caffeine use is stopped or interrupted, it can cause other psychological symptoms which can include: anxiety, inability to concentrate, irritability or even mild depression. In addition, caffeine also exerts systemic effects on heart rate, blood pressure and overall metabolic rate. Most times, these systemic effects are minimal and transient; however, in patients with blood pressure issues, they can play a definite role in their overall blood pressure control.

A cheaper and healthier alternative to these energy-booster drinks is the boring vitamin Bs. I recommend Vitamin B-complex. B-complex consists of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B7, B9 and B12 as these all help the body’s functions and chemical reactions in converting food into energy and other substances. Vitamin B-Complex is not an exciting vitamin, but with a price tag of $5.99 for 100 tablets, it sure gives a huge bang for the buck when it comes to providing energy, alertness and overall well-being. The energy- booster drinks can’t claim these benefits, and at a price tag of $5.99 for 4 doses, my recommendation tops the price and value charts.

So, the next time to need a boost, buy a bottle of B-complex (50mg or 100mg) and take one daily, it is the best remedy for fatigue.

Until next week, stay well.

Dion