Instant energy Published Oct. 10, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Robby Hedrick 75 ABW/PA HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- Getting up earlier and staying up later have become more prevalent than ever in today's society. Through the implementation of the standard eight-hour work day and demand for higher productivity, people are consistently consuming more caffeinated beverages to aid them through the day. Whether you reach for a Doubleshot Energy+Coffee drink from Starbucks or any of the hundred-plus energy drinks for sale at convenience stores, their impact is undeniable. They have become one of the quickest growing "supplements" of our time and can be seen advertised in almost every magazine, TV ad or sponsorship imaginable. In essence, these drinks provide a boost of energy along with mental alertness through the use of caffeine, vitamins, minerals, herbs, sugar and sugar substitutes. The "usual" amount of caffeine in these products tends to range from 150mg to 200mg, in addition to the other ingredients, to provide pep. Their coffee counterparts usually go with a more moderate dosage of caffeine generally staying near a 100mg per eight-ounce serving. Coffee also tends to lack the vitamins and minerals for the extra sustained boost of energy. Some people prefer the "old faithful" of straight caffeine pills, which come in many forms such as NoDoz, Jet Alert and Yellow Jackets just to name a few. The pill form generally sticks to straight caffeine with no additives or derivatives. Red Bull, ROCKSTAR, Starbucks and the pills on the counter at any gas station are competing for your business and with so many different choices and nearly unlimited supply of energy products, which one really provides the best bang for your buck? Energy Drinks The energy drink phenomenon continues to grow strong without any sign of letting up. The insatiable appetite for more business and stronger competition has produced a myriad of flavors for the consumer. Fierce rivalry makes them stronger each year which can be a good and bad thing. Energy drinks are not required to list the amount of caffeine used on the nutrition label and can be found in upwards of 16 and 20-ounce cans. Caloric contents also vary and can range from very low to 200 calories per eight-ounce serving. However, good or bad the drink of your choice may choose to be, the cost will add up with prices ranging from $2 to $3 per can. Coffee Drinks Coffee has been an old stand-by for many years and can be found in almost anyplace conceivable. Coffee also has the advantage of having an infinite numbers of flavors, additives, and preferred variations such as espresso, mocha lattes, etc. Some research shows it may also slightly alleviate signs and symptoms of depression. Although coffee also incurs some disadvantages as well. It has been well documented that coffee can stain teeth, cause constipation and can become very calorie dense with the additions of sugar, creamer, whip cream etc. Caffeine Pills Caffeine pills are relatively cheap, with a bottle of 120 pills at 200mg of caffeine per pill going for about $5. They are relatively discrete and can be taken anywhere at any time. There are almost no calories associated with them as well. They are easily accessible through over-the-counter drugstores or online. The main disadvantage to this method is that it doesn't provide the social aspect of conversing over a cup of "Joe" or sipping a Red Bull throughout the day. Another is, once the pill is ingested, the full amount of caffeine is taken in. There is no turning back. Summary All-in-all it really comes down to personal choice and self expression. They all do a great job of adding a boost of energy in our daily lives, which help people to stay awake, alert and perform better. However there are a few things to keep in mind no matter what preference decided upon. Any amount of caffeine over 500mg consumed in one day is thought to be excessive by most doctors. Some people should avoid stimulants altogether if they have certain medical conditions. Also keep in mind that caffeinated products are not sports drinks. While taking them prior to any physical exertion has been shown to enhance performance, an adequate amount of water needs to be consumed as well. Energy drinks are not necessarily bad for the average person but they shouldn't be considered "natural alternatives" such as teas and herbs. If viewed as highly-caffeinated beverages, one can gain a more accurate description and depiction of what they are and how they affect people. Those being said, take the time to enjoy your next coffee, energy drink, or caffeine pill before it's time to get to work.