The Scoop
Our
November product spotlight highlights one of our newest and most popular energy
drinks, Activ8, by Titan Nutrition. If the mention of the term “energy drink,”
conjures up thoughts of a carbonated sugar-high followed by an in-the-dumps
caffeine crash, we don’t blame you. The
industry is loaded with these products masquerading as “health” supplements.
Look,
we get it – sometimes, you need a boost. Whether it is making it through a 10
hour workday or performing at the highest level in your sport, there’s a big
reason why the energy drink industry hit 12.5 billion in 2012 sales (PF,
2013). But you shouldn't have to settle
for drinks loaded with garbage calories and dangerous ingredients.
As
part of a new wave of energy drinks, Activ8’s nutrient profile is designed to
work with your body’s processes to maximize natural energy production. Rather
than flooding your body with synthetic stimulants that you will eventually
build a tolerance to, Activ8 relies on key vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and
antioxidants to help your body produce a smooth, sustained energy that
lasts. Activ8 is zero calories, naturally
sweetened with stevia (Lemon Drop is delicious), and uses a banned-substance-free formula. Those looking to get the
most out of their next workout (or workday), can stop by Mid 10 for a free
sample or grab a 45 serving bottle for just $29.95!
The Science
Sometimes the best way to learn is to go straight to
the source. We let the guys at Titan break down the four key components to Activ8:
Sustained Energy Complex (Riboflavin, Niacin,
Thiamine, B6, B12)
The
body looks to carbohydrates, fats and proteins as its sources of energy. For
optimal metabolism of these macronutrients, B vitamins are needed to break down
and convert the stored calories to energy. Activ8 is packed with B vitamins
(thiamine, niacin (B-3), riboflavin, B12 and B-6). This formula is
specifically designed to enhance the conversion of calories to real and usable
energy for long periods of time.
Focus and Drive Complex (L-Tyrosine,
Choline, Glycine, GABA)
Activ8
is loaded with amino acids to heighten your ability to focus, by working with
the neuro-active transmitters from the brain to the central nervous system.
These amino acids are essential for proper nerve function, memory, muscle
functions, and mental clarity. They also help to promote an overall
sense of well-being and can help reduce muscle breakdown during stressful
situations or rigorous activity.
Immediate Energy Blend (Caffeine, Taurine,
Ginseng)
Proper
amounts of caffeine and taurine provide fast acting energy without over-stimulating the adrenal glands (which can lead to an energy crash). The matrix of
energy-producing ingredients means you don’t need huge amounts
of caffeine to boost your energy levels. The relatively small dose of caffeine in
Activ8 quickly heightens the nervous system and muscle readiness for optimum
performance (Journal S&C Research, 2009).
Increased Blood Flow and
Oxidative Support (Beet
Root Extract, Grape Seed Extract, Citrus Bioflavonoids)
Activ8
contains the natural vasodilator beet root extract, which helps to increase
blood flow to the extremities for better oxygenation and nutrient delivery to
the working muscle tissues. Beet root is rich in minerals, is a natural
antioxidant and increases blood nitrate concentrations and oxygen uptake to
boost power output and endurance.
For
powerful antioxidant support the Activ8 formula also contains grape seed extract.
Free radicals occur from the waste produced by converting food to energy. Free
radicals damage cells and inhibit the maximum performance of the bodily
functions. Activ8 contains several antioxidants, which destroy free radicals in
the body.
How does Activ8 stack up against the
competition?
We’ve
done the legwork so you can see for yourself!
Activ8
|
Spark (AdvoCare)
|
Monster
|
5 hour energy
|
|
Serving Size
|
1 scoop (5 g)
|
1 scoop (15 g)
|
1 can (16 oz)
|
1 shot
(1.93 oz)
|
Price per serving ($)
|
.67
|
1.23
|
1.43
|
1.82
|
Calories
|
0
|
45
|
200
|
4
|
Carbohydrates
|
0 g
|
11 g
|
54 g
|
N/A
|
Sweetener
|
Stevia
|
Sucralose
|
Sucrose
|
Sucralose
|
Vitamin A
|
1,000 IU
|
1,000 IU
|
-
|
-
|
Vitamin C
|
185 mg
|
180 mg
|
-
|
-
|
Riboflavin
|
3.4 mg
|
3.4 mg
|
3.4 mg
|
-
|
Niacin
|
60 mg
|
60 mg
|
40 mg
|
30 mg
|
Vitamin B-6
|
15 mg
|
15 mg
|
4 mg
|
40 mg
|
Vitamin B-12
|
50 mcg
|
45 mcg
|
6 mcg
|
500 mcg
|
Caffeine
|
120 mg
|
120 mg
|
160-180 mg
|
95-150 mg
|
Beet Root Extract
|
50 mg
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
Grape Seed Extract
|
40 mg
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
REFERENCES
1. Effect of caffeine on sport-specific endurance performance: a systematic review (2009). Journal of Strength & Conditioning research. Jan 23 (1): 315-324.
2. Industry analysis: Energy Drinks and Shots (2013). Packaged Facts.
