4 Best Energy-Boosting Supplements To Supercharge Your Body And Mind

(Last Updated on November 5, 2022)

Often, we find ourselves needing an energy boost from time to time.

It could be a result of a busy lifestyle, recovery from illness, lack of sleep, or simply a need to be able to do more.

This is especially true for athletes, bodybuilders, or those who do high-intensity workouts.

One of the most common energy boosters that people reach out for is coffee.

Unfortunately, it might not be enough for someone looking for a considerable boost and other benefits like improved focus, motivation, and calmness.

This energy boosters review discusses dietary supplements in the market today that are ideal for increasing energy levels while giving other benefits.

It discusses what they are, how they work, their ingredients, and the kind of benefits you can expect from them.

Best Energy Boosters

1. Performance Lab Energy

Performance Lab Energy is a dietary supplement that delivers 100% smart, clean, and healthy energy to the body.

Unlike other supplements, this energy booster does not contain caffeine and other stimulants which give fast energy but end up in hard crashes.

It works by boosting the production of energy in the cell’s mitochondria while also keeping them healthy and robust.

Additionally, Performance Lab Energy boosts fat metabolism and increases the efficiency of cells.

It can be used daily as a safe, legal, and natural way to improve mental and physical performance.

This supplement utilizes ultra-modern energy ingredients and antioxidants backed by Bioperine to ensure the effective delivery of energy.

The supplement’s doses have been tested and formulated in line with clinical research.

For the best results, you should take 1-2 capsules in the morning and another 1-2 in the afternoon based on your needs.

If you work a workout session scheduled, you can use two tablets 45-60 minutes before your workout.

This energy booster is manufactured by Opti Nutra, a supplement company based in the United Kingdom.

It is available for purchase on the official website performancelab.com where it comes with a 30-day performance promise.

How it works?

Performance Lab Energy provides the nutrients that protect, multiply, and optimize cell mitochondria to guarantee effective performance.

Mitochondria are the small organelles within cells that are responsible for taking in nutrients from food and turning it into molecular energy.

When cells are damaged by free radicals, they don’t perform as efficiently, and one experiences fatigue, fog, and other issues.

This supplement uses ingredients such as Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ), a potent antioxidant to rejuvenate cells.

PQQ is believed to have 5000 times the power of vitamin C, which makes it an important ingredient when it comes to cell protection.

When PQQ is combined with another component known as CoQ10, they improve, multiply, and guard body cells boosting their efficiency.

Ingredients

Here the top ingredients in this energy booster that make it so effective:

• Acetyl-L-Carnitine: This amino acid is necessary for energy production in cells. Acetyl supports cell mitochondria by transporting long fatty acids across cell membranes for oxidization to ATP energy. It also moves waste materials and toxins out of the mitochondria.
• R-Lipoic Acid: This ingredient plays a role in activating enzymes needed for carbohydrate metabolism. R-Lipoic acid is also a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from oxidative damage.
• BioPerine: Bioperine is extracted from black pepper. It raises the body’s metabolic rate and heat, which helps other nutrients to reach the bloodstream effectively. It also helps one to burn more calories, which is beneficial for those looking to lose weight.

Pros

• It delivers clean, healthy, jitter-free energy.
• Does not contain stimulants that induce crashes.
• Boosts energy and mental focus.
• Optimizes energy production in cell mitochondria.
• Allergen, soy, and gluten-free.
• Comes with a 30-day performance promise.
• Has many positive reviews on the official website.
• Non-GMO, synthetic additives free.

Cons

• Only available online on the official website.
• Results are not standard.

2. Essential Amino Energy

Essential Amino Energy is a dietary supplement that boosts energy and increases metabolism and focus.

It particularly aids in muscle recovery after a workout and is therefore ideal for use as a pre-workout supplement.

It can also be used for those who are looking for an energy boost for everyday activities.

This energy booster is formulated from a combination of five amino acids carefully selected for their benefits.

It comes in two delicious fruit flavors with only five calories and no added sugar.

The manufacturer recommends that you take two scoops of the supplement with 10-12 fl oz of cold water.

Essential Amino Acid is produced by Optimum Nutrition, one of the few companies that own and operate its production facilities.

This supplement is available for purchase on the official website and several other e-commerce sites such as GNC, Walmart, Amazon, iHerb, and Vitamin World.

How it works?

Essential Amino Energy relies on specially selected ingredients to deliver its promises.

It contains two main blends, the energy blend, and the amino acid blend.

The energy blend comprises of organic caffeine, which jumpstarts energy, decreases fatigue, and improves cognitive function.

Studies show that caffeine blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that can cause fatigue by relaxing the brain.

Amino acids include Alpha GPC is also included in this formula for its ability to promote cognitive function.

Athletes also take this compound for its ability to stimulate the growth hormone.

Ingredients

Here the top ingredients in this energy booster that make it so effective:

• Cognizin: Cognizin ¹ is a form of citicoline that is known to boost mental energy, focus, and attention. It plays an essential role in the production of acetylcholine, the learning neurotransmitter. It improves memory, learning, and muscle contraction.
• Green tea extract: green tea is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is also known to improve brain health and reduce fat levels. Green tea also contains flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamins that benefit the body immensely.
• L-Tyrosine: This is an amino acid that improves alertness, focus, and attention. It stimulates neurotransmitters that enhance communication between nerve cells. L-Tyrosine also improves and regulates moods.

Pros

• Increases energy.
• It boosts muscle endurance and delays fatigue.
• Improves and regulates moods.
• Comes in many different fruit flavors.
• Available in many various outlets.
• Contains high doses of caffeine which is ideal in a pre-workout.

Cons

• The formula is a proprietary blend which does not disclose exact amounts used.
• Some of the amino acids used in the combination are not useful in the described benefits.
• Contains artificial sweeteners.

3. Karbolyn Fuel

Karbolyn Fuel is a dietary supplement designed to provide a sustainable fuel source during a workout.

It is a complex carbohydrate formula that is quickly absorbed in the body like a simple sugar but without the accompanying crashes.

Most importantly, it provides sustained endurance without leaving you bloated or lethargic.

This supplement is ideal for athletes, bodybuilders, and high-intensity trainers.

The power of Karbolyn is backed by a clinical study that sought to establish its impact on blood sugar levels during aerobic activity.

When compared with simple sugar, the study found that those who took sugar had a steep drop in blood sugar, which resulted in a crash.

On the other hand, those who took Karbolyn had a gradual decline without any crashes.

This energy booster is formulated with a proprietary blend of sugar molecules derived from potato, rice, and corn.

It comes in over twenty different fruit flavors.

For the best results, the manufacturer recommends that you mix one scoop with 16 ounces of water.

If you are using it as a pre-workout, you should take it 30 minutes before your workout.

You can also use it as a post-workout energy booster.

Karbolyn Fuel is manufactured by EFX Sports, a company based in the USA.

It is available for purchase from the official website as well as other e-commerce sites like iHerb.com.

How it works?

Karbolyn provides the body with the needed energy to sustain a workout and prepare the body for the next one.

When we consume carbohydrates, the body converts them to glucose as its source of energy.

During exercise, the body utilizes stored glycogen in the body, and when its levels go down, the performance also declines.

Fatigue kicks in, and one starts to lose energy, and at this point, the body may start breaking down muscle.

When taken before a workout, Karbolyn provides the body with much-needed nutrients to get through the workout.

It is absorbed in the blood quickly, but unlike other simple sugars does not cause a crash when depleted.

This energy booster ensures sustained glycogen levels before, during, and after a strenuous workout.

Ingredients

Here is the top ingredient in this energy booster that makes it so effective:

• Homopolysaccharide (derived from potato, corn, and rice): This is the only ingredient in this energy booster.  It is a kind of sugar monomer that the manufacturer has derived from corn, rice, and potato. It is processed using a proprietary multi-stage Enzymatic Milling Process that gives optimal molecular size. This allows the maker to achieve a superior carbohydrate that is digested without causing bloating or cramping.

Pros

• Provides stable energy without crashes.
• Does not cause digestive stress.
• Optimizes glycogen stores before, during and after a workout.
• Efficacy is backed by a clinical study.
• Comes in a variety of flavors.

Cons

• The fruit flavors contain artificial sugars.
• There is scanty information about the sole ingredient.

4. Cellucor C4 Extreme Energy

The makers of Cellucor C4 Extreme Energy claim that it is America’s number one selling pre-workout supplement.

It promises to deliver explosive energy, and increase focus and motivation to take on any challenge.

This energy booster is ideal for those who are starting on a fitness journey to seasoned competitors.

It is formulated from a combination of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that work together to boost performance.

C4 Extreme Energy comes in several fruit flavors such as orange burst, pink lemonade, watermelon, and strawberry margarita.

For the best results, the manufacturer advises that you mix one scoop with six fl. oz of water about 30 minutes before your workout.

You may experience a tingling sensation after taking it, and this is harmless and should go away after a short while.

This energy booster is manufactured by Cellucor under the C4 brand.

It is available for purchase from the official website and other e-commerce sites like iherb and brick& motor stores like Costco.

How it works?

C4 Extreme Energy uses carefully selected ingredients to boost energy levels, increase focus, and heighten motivation.

It contains beta-alanine, an amino acid that plays a part in the production of carnosine, a compound that supports muscle endurance during intense exercise.

This formula also utilizes caffeine anhydrous, which stimulates the central nervous system, clearing out any drowsiness and boosting energy levels.

Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress.

Ingredients

Here is the top ingredient in this energy booster that makes it so effective:

• Vitamin B6: This vitamin is involved in the production of serotonin and norepinephrine, hormones that help to regulate moods and reduce stress. It also plays a part in growth and development.
• Mucuna Pruriens seed extract: Also known as velvet bean ², this extract can lower anxiety, improve moods and heighten focus. This is because it contains natural L-dopa, a component that is a precursor to dopamine, the ‘feel good’ hormone. It also increases motivation and pleasure.
• Calcium: This mineral has many fundamental functions in the body. It is responsible for the strength and health of bones and aids in the clotting of blood. It also helps muscles to contract.

Pros

• Increases energy levels.
• Improves focus and motivation.
• Comes in a variety of fruit flavors.
• The efficacy of the main ingredients is backed by scientific research.

Cons

• Can cause jitters when combined with other stimulants like coffee.
• Some customers complained of stomach cramps after taking it.
• Contains artificial sweeteners.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What are energy boosters?

Energy boosters are dietary supplements designed to increase energy, mental alertness, and ward off fatigue. These supplements often include stimulants like caffeine as well as vitamins that rev up energy production in the body like B vitamins and other amino acids.

2. What are some of the benefits of energy boosters?

• Increased energy levels.
• Improved mental focus and alertness.
• Heightened motivation.
• More effective energy production in the cells.
• Increased muscle mass.
• Protection from oxidative stress.
• Reduced anxiety and stress.

3. Who should use energy boosters?

Energy boosters can be used by anybody looking to increase energy levels to do more, either at home, work, or in the gym.  For the most part, they are ideal for athletes and people who do high-intensity workouts.

4. Which ingredients should I expect to see in an energy booster?

Some of the usual suspects include:

• Caffeine
• Guarana
• Acetyl-L-Carnitine
• L-Tyrosine
• Green tea extract
• B vitamins
• Vitamins C and E
• Minerals like calcium

5. How can I decide which energy-boosting supplement to use?

One of the things you should consider in an energy booster is the ingredients and their quantities. For instance, if a supplement contains caffeine, it should be in a balanced dosage that doesn’t cause jitters or crashes or even interfere with sleep patterns. You should also look out for one that gives other benefits such as improved focus and alertness. Avoid those that have artificial ingredients and fillers that might hike the cost but don’t have any benefits. The reputation of the manufacturer is also important, and you can get this by doing a quick search online.

6. What are the side effects of energy boosters?

Energy-boosting supplements will not have serious side effects that you would expect in steroids. However, based on the ingredients, some people experience headaches, stomach cramps, nausea, and when there is too much caffeine, jitters, and crashes. It is important to read and understand the ingredients to ensure that you are not allergic to any of them. If you have any concerns, especially regarding a pre-existing medical condition, it is best to consult a doctor before you take energy-boosting supplements.

7. Should I combine a gym workout with energy boosters?

Yes, energy boosters and gym workouts go hand in hand. Most people will be taking them to boost and sustain high-intensity workouts. Taking a pre-workout supplement will help keep your energy levels up and enable you to have a productive session. Taking a supplement after the workout will also help in replenishing used up glycogen levels and increase protein synthesis, which is useful in building muscle.

Conclusion

This review has looked at four of the best energy boosters in the market today.

It has discussed what they are, how they work, their ingredients, and their benefits.

If you are looking to increase your energy, focus, and reduce the stress associated with work, family, or everyday pressures, these supplements can help.

They are also ideal for those who want to add power to their workouts for bigger and better gains.

We hope that you will find one that works for you.