What about an ENERGY PILL?

Will these popular energy supplements really give you more get up and go? Here’s the latest intel.

Bee pollen

WHAT IT IS A mix of flower nectar, honey, enzymes and bee secretions all fermented in the hive. Find it in granules and capsules.

HOW IT WORKS By boosting levels of healthy fatty acids, carbs, vitamins and minerals.

SCIENCE SAYS The jury is still out on its ability to rev up energy.

HEALTH TIP Some people with asthma are sensitive to bee pollen.

Cacao

WHAT IT IS Raw, unroasted cacao, from the small brown South American cocoa bean.

HOW IT WORKS Cacao contains caffeine and theobromine – both stimulants.

SCIENCE SAYS Cacao can combat fatigue. High in antioxidants, it’s also anti-inflammatory and benefits brain, heart and lung function.

HEALTH TIP Add cacao nibs to a nut mix, or cacao powder to your latte.

Cinnamon

WHAT IT IS An aromatic spice that comes in quills, capsules and powder.

HOW IT WORKS By stabilising blood sugars, so you have a steady supply of energy.

SCIENCE SAYS Studies on energy benefits are inconclusive, but cinnamon can lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes.

HEALTH TIP Add cinnamon to lattes, tagines, curries, muffins and also rice dishes.

Coenzyme Q10

WHAT IT IS A potent antioxidant found in all your cells. It can be taken in soft gels, tablets or as a powder.

HOW IT WORKS Your body’s own supply improves function of mitochondria, little batteries that make energy in your cells.

SCIENCE SAYS Though taking Q10 can help stabilise insulin levels, studies show mixed results for boosting energy.

HEALTH TIP Statin drugs can reduce Q10 levels.

Creatine

WHAT IT IS A naturally occurring amino acid found in muscle, usually taken in protein supplement powders or capsules.

HOW IT WORKS A bit like a taxi that transports fat into your cells to be used for energy.

SCIENCE SAYS It can help power you up for short, intense bursts of exercise, such as cycling up a hill. It also boosts memory and supports muscle repair.

HEALTH TIP Creatine may reduce depression symptoms in women, research shows.

Glutamine

WHAT IT IS The most abundant amino acid in your body. Supplements include capsules and powder.

HOW IT WORKS By increasing storage of glycogen, which muscles use for fuel.

SCIENCE SAYS Glutamine can help heal stomach ulcers, decrease muscle soreness after exercise and boost recovery after surgery.

HEALTH TIP Glutamine is also found in beef, chicken, fish, eggs and dairy foods.

Ribose

WHAT IT IS A natural sugar found in every cell of your body.

HOW IT WORKS It helps your body make Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which stores and transfers energy in your cells.

SCIENCE SAYS Small studies show it can reduce chronic fatigue and boost exercise performance.

HEALTH TIP Ribose may help reduce muscle cramps and stiffness after a workout.