Energy booster
And because this hormone is related to estrogen and testosterone, there is concern that it may increase the risk for breast and prostate cancers. It can also lower levels of beneficial HDL cholesterol. Some research shows that DHEA can damage the liver. The truth is that this naturally occurring hormone has no proven benefits and some potentially serious health risks. Sometimes marketed as a “fountain of youth,” dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is touted to boost energy as well as prevent cancer, heart disease, and infectious disease, among other things. But there is little evidence it can do the same in older adults, or that it can reduce a feeling of fatigue in anyone.ĭHEA. There is some evidence that taking creatine can build muscle mass and improve athletic performance requiring short bursts of muscle activity (like sprinting). The body makes own creatine it is largely found in muscle. One small European study suggested that people with chronic fatigue syndrome might benefit from supplementation with coenzyme Q10, but more research is needed.Ĭreatine. In other cases, the effects are not clear. Coenzyme Q10 supplements have been shown to improve exercise capacity in people with heart disease, and may do the same in people with rare diseases that affect the mitochondria. This enzyme is found in mitochondria, the energy factories of our cells. This trace mineral is widely marketed to build muscle, burn fat, and increase energy and athletic performance, but research has not supported these claims.Ĭoenzyme Q10. Here’s a look at some of the substances that are commonly touted as energy boosters.Ĭhromium picolinate.
The fact is, the only thing that’ll reliably boost your energy is caffeine or other stimulant-and their effects wear off within hours. Yet there is little or no scientific evidence to support the claims for most of these substances. Soft drinks and so-called energy drinks include these products. Stroll the aisles of any pharmacy or “health food” store and you’ll see a multitude of herbs and other supplements that claim to boost energy.