Which Ingredients Are Present in an Energy Beverage?
Oliwia Kaczmarek
2026-03-23
2 min. read
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Energy beverages are an easily accessible and quick source of stimulation that we may sometimes lack. But have we ever pondered over the impact that their constituents (not only caffeine) have on our bodies? If yes, then we invite you to peruse the following text... let us examine what we are dealing with!
Glucuronic acid lactone
Glucuronic acid lactone is an organic compound that belongs to the lactone group. This molecule is a common ingredient in energy drinks. These products usually contain 10-60 mg of this substance. Too few studies make it impossible to confirm the safety of supplementation with this substance in humans. Nevertheless, it is considered a health-protective substance. Glucuronic acid lactone is formed as a result of glucose metabolism in the liver and serves as a precursor in the synthesis of other substances such as ribose and taurine. This results in the production of glycogen and improved energy processes in our body. Glucuronic acid lactone has a positive effect on concentration, blood vessels, reduces fatigue, and has a detoxifying effect. It is also worth mentioning that glucuronic acid lactone improves the process of collagen synthesis and has an antiproliferative character.
Taurine - a biogenic amino acid bond
Taurine is a biogenic bond resulting from the degradation of cysteine. The human body produces this compound to a small extent on its own in the gut, brain, and liver, but it is naturally present in peas, meat, oysters, fish, and lentils. It is responsible for binding bile acids before releasing them from the liver, which leads to increased solubility and facilitates digestion in the digestive system. This preparation also aids in the transport of creatine to muscles and accelerates post-exertion recovery, influencing muscle tissue development and improving psychomotor performance. Supplementation with taurine may be recommended for enhancing bodily efficiency during exertion.
Supplementation and additional information
The most commonly used amount of glucuronolactone per day is 800 mg per kilogram of body weight. This dose is most commonly found in energy drinks. Beverages containing this substance are not recommended for diabetics, children and adolescents under 16 years of age, and pregnant women. Adverse effects occur most often after taking a higher dose than recommended. Overdosing can lead to damage to the nervous system, heart, and even death. Supplementation with taurine assumes that a dose between 5 and 2000 mg brings the desired effects. However, a daily dose of 3 g does not lead to adverse effects. These include gastrointestinal disorders and stomach ulcers.
