Monster - Zero Ultra

So I know that monster energy drinks are super unhealthy and not good for you, but recently I came across the Monster Zero Ultra. It has zero calories and zero sugar and it really helps to give me energy on days when I feel so sluggish. Do you think that since it doesn't have any sugar or calories that it makes it okay to drink? Will this hinder my weight loss? I know that everything in moderation, so every once in a while it won't really hurt that much... but they make this one actually sound healthy! What do you think?

I doubt its "healthy" bunch of chemicals as jen said, however I must admit I do like the zero ultra and have had several :X but I don't think its any worse then say diet soda.

Moderation is key and to be honest, I enjoy one from time to time. Just be careful because it is high in sodium.. I suggest drinking extra water when/if you choose to have one.

So I know that monster energy drinks are super unhealthy and not good for you, but recently I came across the Monster Zero Ultra. It has zero calories and zero sugar and it really helps to give me energy on days when I feel so sluggish. Do you think that since it doesn't have any sugar or calories that it makes it okay to drink? Will this hinder my weight loss? I know that everything in moderation, so every once in a while it won't really hurt that much... but they make this one actually sound healthy! What do you think?

Can't remember if it uses aspertame or sucralose. I think it is the latter. I have read that it isn't necessarily 0 calories and our bodies may be able to metabolize about 15% of it. I got up to about two 16oz cans of sugar free energy drinks a day (mainly Nos or Rockstar, I hate Monster) for about 2 years straight. Near the end I was starting to get more and more sugar cravings then I usually did. About 3 months ago I quit all carbonated beverages. I just can't drink them once in a while without getting hooked into a bad habit. I drink coffee once is a while but I don't crave it or anything. I had some caffeine headaches at first but nothing a few ibuprofin didn't fix. I never really noticed a loss of energy though either once I quit. I just make sure to have some water at my desk to sip on to replace the fluids I normally would get from the energy drinks.

Also I think my dentist will appreciate that I stopped as well. I was getting pretty soft enamel from drinking them so much.

Absolute Zero taste a lot better and also has a lot of vitamins in it. It really does give you that kick that you are looking for. Nothing is going to replace water but there is nothing in this that is going to hinder your weight loss. I am down 90 lbs in a little over a year and a half and I drink a couple of these or a couple of diet sodas a day. As long as you are not replacing your water with these drinks you are going to be fine.

This drink is completely fine to drink. read this, its every single ingredient in Ultra Zero Monster

L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid (a building block for proteins) that is naturally produced in the body.

L-carnitine supplements are used to increase L-carnitine levels in people whose natural level of L-carnitine is too low because they have a genetic disorder, are taking certain drugs (valproic acid for seizures), or because they are undergoing a medical procedure (hemodialysis for kidney disease) that uses up the body’s L-carnitine. It is also used as a replacement supplement in strict vegetarians, dieters, and low-weightor premature infants.

L-carnitine is used for conditions of the heart and blood vessels including heart-related chest pain, congestive heart failure (CHF), heart complications of a disease called diphtheria, heart attack, leg pain caused by circulation problems (intermittent claudication), and high cholesterol.

Some people use L-carnitine for muscle disorders associated with certain AIDS medications, difficulty fathering a child (male infertility), a brain development disorder called Rett syndrome, anorexia, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, overactivethyroid, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), leg ulcers, Lyme disease, and to improve athletic performance and endurance.

L-tartrate is a dietary supplement containing the levo-enantiomers of carnitine and tartrate with potential chemoprotective and antioxidant activities. L-carnitine L-tartrate increases fatty acid oxidation and reduces purine catabolism and free radical formation, which may prevent exercise fatigue, muscle weakness, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and hyperlipoproteinemia. L-carnitine, the biologically active form of carnitine, is a carrier molecule that transports activated long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs)from the cytosol to mitochondria where fatty acids are oxidized, resulting in ATP production,. L-tartrate, a salt of tartaric acid, is a potent antioxidant.


How does it work?
L-carnitine helps the body produce energy. It is important for heart and brain function, muscle movement, and many other body processes.

Erythritol
In the body, most erythritol is absorbed into the bloodstream in the small intestine, and then for the most part excreted unchanged in theurine. About 10% enters the colon.[4] Because 90% of erythritol is absorbed before it enters the large intestine, it does not normally causelaxative effects, as are often experienced after consumption of other sugar alcohols (such as xylitol and maltitol),[
Erythritol has been certified as tooth-friendly.[11] The sugar alcohol cannot be metabolized by oral bacteria, so does not contribute to tooth decay.

Taurine
Taurine is an amino acid, a chemical that is a required building block of protein. Taurine is found in large amounts in the brain, retina, heart, and blood cells called platelets. The best food sources are meat and fish.

You may see taurine referred to as “a conditional amino acid,” to distinguish it from “an essential amino acid.” A “conditional amino acid” can be manufactured by the body, but an “essential amino acid” cannot be made by the body and must be provided by the diet. People who, for one reason or another, cannot make taurine, must get all the taurine they need from their diet or supplements. For example, supplementation is necessary in infants who are not breastfed because their ability to make taurine is not yet developed and cow's milk does not provide enough taurine. So taurine is often added to infant formulas. People who are being tube-fed often need taurine as well, so it is added to the nutritional products that they use. Excess taurine is excreted by the kidneys.

Some people take taurine supplements as medicine to treat congestive heart failure(CHF), high blood pressure, liver disease (hepatitis), high cholesterol(hypercholesterolemia), and cystic fibrosis. Other uses include seizure disorders (epilepsy), autism, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), eye problems (disorders of the retina), diabetes, and alcoholism. It is also used to improve mental performance and as an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect cells of the body from damage that results from certain chemical reactions involving oxygen (oxidation).
How does it work?
Researchers aren’t exactly sure why taurine seems to help congestive heart failure (CHF). There is some evidence that it improves the function of the left ventricle, one of the chambers of the heart. Taurine might also improve heart failure because it seems to lower blood pressure and calm the sympathetic nervous system, which is often too active in people with high blood pressure and CHF. The sympathetic nervous system is the part of the nervous system that responds to stress. Taurine has also been noted to have antidepressant effects.

Panax Ginseng
Panax ginseng extract or simply ginseng is a very popular herb in Asia as well as Europe. This herb grows extensively in the northern parts of China, Korea, Japan as well as Nepal and this is has been used as a traditional herb for curing many ailments such as headaches, stress, blood pressure etc. This article will give you an insight view of the benefits of panax ginseng extract and some other additional information that might help you.
BENEFITS:
This is an excellent supplement for nutritional needs containing all vital components like vitamin A, D, E, K and B complex. It also consists of abundant quantities of minerals like iron and phosphorous which is needed for foetal development. Ginseng extract can be given to young children to develop immunity as well as aid in proper growth.
Panax ginseng extract helps in proper functioning of the nervous system. This extract is a kind of a stimulant which when consumed instantly revives all the neurons thereby relieving stress and tiredness.
As discussed above, Panax Ginseng extract is an excellent remedy for fatigue. This can be consumed as raw extract or by mixing it with milk or water. The effect of ginseng is instantaneous and very productive.
This is an excellent remedy for headache as it activates the neurons. Since this is a natural herb, people can simply go for Panax Ginseng extract in case of persistent headaches rather than going for drugs that may have side effects.
Regular intake of ginseng extract helps in improving the blood supply to the brain and heart muscles. It also helps the bone marrow (where RBC's are produced) to produce healthier cells.
Researches have concluded that ginseng extract is very good in treating and curing type II diabetesmellitus by eliminating excess of fat present in the adipose tissue and other internal organs. This also improves the secretion of insulin, a necessary hormone to control diabetes.
Another very important benefit one can achieve by the consumption of ginseng is that they can increase their sexual libido. Regular intake will definitely help people with sex related problems and studies have concluded that ginseng stimulates the secretion of the sex hormones and also longevity during an intercourse. This is also a very good herb to eliminate erectile dysfunction.
This is a very good remedy for controlling the onset of cancerous cells. Scientists have accepted that ginseng extracts contain certain compounds (Falcarinol) that completely inhibits cancer forming cells, especially breast cancer and gastric cancer.
Panax ginseng extract is a very good anti-biotic and can be used to cure small injuries. This is a very good anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent.
Panax ginseng is very good in eliminating parasites and worms in the intestines of children thereby assisting their proper growth.
Overall panax ginseng extract is hugely beneficial supplement and comes highly recommended from medical practitioners all over the world.
Sucralose
Safety studies
Results from over 100 animal and clinical studies in the FDA approval process unanimously indicated a lack of risk associated with sucralose intake.[28][29][30][31] However, some adverse effects were seen at doses that significantly exceeded the estimated daily intake (EDI), which is 1.1 mg/kg/day.[32] When the EDI is compared to the intake at which adverse effects are seen—known as the highest no adverse effects limit (HNEL)—at 1500 mg/kg/day,[32] there is a large margin of safety. The bulk of sucralose ingested is not absorbed by the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and is directly excreted in the feces, while 11–27% of it is absorbed.[5] The amount absorbed from the GI tract is largely removed from the blood stream by the kidneys and eliminated in the urine, with 20–30% of the absorbed sucralose being metabolized.[5]
Other potential effects
A Duke University study[36] funded by the Sugar Association found evidence that doses of Splenda of between 100 and 1000 mg/kg, containing sucralose at 1.1 to 11 mg/kg (compare to the FDA Acceptable Daily Intake of 5 mg/kg), reduced the amount of fecal microflora in rats by up to 50%, increased the pH level in the intestines, contributed to increases in body weight, and increased levels of P-glycoprotein (P-gp).[37] These effects have not been reported in humans.[5] An expert panel, including scientists from Rutgers University, New York Medical College, Harvard School of Public Health, Columbia University, and Duke University reported in Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology that the Duke study was "not scientifically rigorous and is deficient in several critical areas that preclude reliable interpretation of the study results".[38] Another study linked large doses of sucralose, equivalent to 11,450 packets (136 g) per day in a person, to DNA damage in mice.[39] In a small scale study of 17 obese test subjects, sucralose was found to affect glycemic and insulin responses, leading to an increase in peak plasma glucose concentration and insulin secretion rate.[40]
Sorbic Acid
Sorbic acid and its salts have been subjected to an extensive battery of tests, including acute, short-term and chronic toxicity/carcinogenicity tests, two-generation reproduction and teratogenicity studies. These studies show that sorbic acid and sorbates have a very low level of mammalian toxicity, even in chronic studies at up to 10% of the diet, and are devoid of carcinogenic activity. They are non-mutagenic and non-clastogenic in vitro and in vivo. The low toxicity is explicable by the fact that sorbic acid is metabolized rapidly by similar pathways to other fatty acids. In humans, a few cases of idiosyncratic intolerances have been reported (non-immunological contact urticaria and pseudo-allergy). The frequency appears low but there are too few reported data for an accurate assessment of the true incidence. In extreme conditions (high concentrations and temperature) sorbic acid may react with nitrite to form mutagenic products but these mutagens are not detectable under normal conditions of use, even in curing brines.
Benzoic Acid
Benzoic acid is relatively nontoxic. It is excreted as hippuric acid.[24]
Benzoic acid occurs naturally as do its esters in many plant and animal species. Appreciable amounts have been found in most berries (around 0.05%). Ripe fruits of severalVaccinium species (e.g., cranberry, V. vitis macrocarpon; bilberry, V. myrtillus) contain as much as 0.03–0.13% free benzoic acid. Benzoic acid is also formed in apples after infection with the fungus Nectria galligena. Among animals, benzoic acid has been identified primarily in omnivorous or phytophageous species, e.g., in viscera and muscles of the Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta) as well as in gland secretions of male muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) or Asian bull elephants (Elephas maximus).[25]
Gum benzoin contains up to 20% of benzoic acid and 40% benzoic acid esters.[26]
Cryptanaerobacter phenolicus is a bacterium species that produces benzoate from phenol via 4-hydroxybenzoate[27]
Benzoic acid is present as part of hippuric acid (N-benzoylglycine) in urine of mammals, especially herbivores (Gr. hippos = horse; ouron = urine). Humans produce about 0.44 g/Lhippuric acid per day in their urine, and if the person is exposed to toluene or benzoic acid, it can rise above that level.[28]
For humans, the World Health Organization's International Programme on Chemical Safety (IPCS) suggests a provisional tolerable intake would be 5 mg/kg body weight per day.[25]Cats have a significantly lower tolerance against benzoic acid and its salts than rats and mice. Lethal dose for cats can be as low as 300 mg/kg body weight.[29] The oral LD50 for rats is 3040 mg/kg, for mice it is 1940–2263 mg/kg.[25]
Niacin and Niacinamide

What is it?
Niacin and niacinamide are forms of Vitamin B3. Vitamin B3 is found in many foods including yeast, meat, fish, milk, eggs, green vegetables, beans, and cereal grains. Niacin and niacinamide are also found in many vitamin B complex supplements with other B vitamins.

Niacin is used for high cholesterol. It is also used along with other treatments for circulation problems, migraine headache, dizziness, and to reduce the diarrhea associated with cholera. Niacin is also used for preventing positive urine drug screens in people who take illegal drugs.

Niacinamide is used for treating diabetes and two skin conditions called bullous pemphigoid and granuloma annulare.

Niacin or niacinamide is used for preventing vitamin B3 deficiency and related conditions such as pellagra. Each of these forms of vitamin B3 is used for schizophrenia, hallucinations due to drugs, Alzheimer’s disease and age-related loss of thinking skills, chronic brain syndrome, depression, motion sickness, alcohol dependence, and fluid collection (edema).

Some people use niacin or niacinamide for acne, leprosy, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), memory loss, arthritis, preventing premenstrual headache, improving digestion, protecting against toxins and pollutants, reducing the effects of aging, lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, promoting relaxation, improving orgasm, and preventing cataracts.

Niacinamide is applied to the skin for treating a skin condition called inflammatory acne vulgaris.
How effective is it?
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.

The effectiveness ratings for NIACIN AND NIACINAMIDE (VITAMIN B3) are as follows:


Likely effective for...
• High cholesterol. Only niacin seems to lower cholesterol, not niacinamide. Some niacin products are FDA-approved prescription products for treating high cholesterol. These prescription niacin products typically come in high strengths of 500 mg or higher. Dietary supplement forms of niacin usually come in strengths of 250 mg or less. Since very high doses of niacin are required for high cholesterol, dietary supplement niacin usually isn’t appropriate.
• Treatment and prevention of niacin deficiency, and certain conditions related to niacin deficiency such as pellagra. Both niacin and niacinamide are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for these uses. Niacinamide is sometimes preferred because it doesn’t cause “flushing,” (redness, itching and tingling), a side effect of niacin treatment.
Possibly effective for...
• Osteoarthritis. Taking niacinamide seems to improve joint flexibility and reduce pain and swelling. Some people who take niacinamide might be able to cut down on standard painkilling medications.
• Alzheimer’s disease. People who consume higher amounts of niacin from food and multivitamin sources seem to have a lower risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease than people who consume less niacin. But there is no evidence that taking a stand-alone niacin supplement helps to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
• Reducing the risk of a second heart attack in men with heart or circulatory disorders.
• Diarrhea from an infection called cholera.
• Diabetes, types 1 and 2.
• Prevention and treatment of cataracts, an eye condition.

Acesulfame potassium
As with other artificial sweeteners, there is concern over the safety of acesulfame potassium. However, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved their general use. Critics say acesulfame potassium has not been studied adequately and may becarcinogenic,[9] although these claims have been dismissed by the FDA[10] and by equivalent authorities in the European Union.[11]
As for potential negative effects, Acesulfame K has been shown to stimulate dose-dependent insulin secretion in rats, though nohypoglycemia was observed, in one animal study from 1987.[12]
One rodent study showed no increased incidence of tumors in response to administration of acesulfame K.[13] In this study, conducted by the National Toxicology Program, 60 rats were given acesulfame K for 40 weeks, making up as much as 3 percent of their total diet (which would be equivalent to a human consuming 1,343 12-oz cans of artificially sweetened soft drinks every day). There was no sign that these (or lower) levels of acesulfame K increased the rats' risk of cancer or other neoplasms. However, a similar study conducted with p53haploinsufficient mice showed signs of carcinogenicity in males but not females.[13] Further food safety research has been recommended.[9][14]
Research suggests that acesulfame K may affect prenatal development. One study appeared to show that acesulfame K is ingested by mice through their mother's amniotic fluid or breast milk, and that this influences the adult mouse's sweet preference.[15]
Additional research on the effects of acesulfame K on mice revealed that chronic use over a period of 40 weeks resulted in a moderate but limited effect on neurometabolic function. These results suggest that chronic usage of acesulfame K may alter of neurological function.[16]
Environment Canada and University of Waterloo tested the water from the Grand River at 23 sites between its headwaters and where it dumps into Lake Erie.[citation needed] The results suggest the artificial sweetener acesulfame is the best at evading wastewater treatment, and it appears in far higher concentrations than the likes of saccharin or sucralose at the various test sites.[citation needed

Pantothenic Acid
Dietary[edit]
Small quantities of pantothenic acid are found in most foods.[12] The major food source of pantothenic acid is meat. The concentration found in animal muscle is about half that in human muscle.[13] Whole grains are another good source of the vitamin, but milling removes much of the pantothenic acid, as it is found in the outer layers of whole grains.[14] Vegetables, such as broccoli and avocados, also have an abundance.[15] In animal feeds, the most important sources are rice, wheat bran, cereal, alfalfa, peanut meal, molasses, yeasts, mushrooms and condensed fish solutions. The most significant sources of pantothenic acid in nature are coldwater fish ovaries and royal jelly.[16]:346
Supplementation[edit]
The derivative of pantothenic acid, pantothenol, is a more stable form of the vitamin and is often used as a source of the vitamin in multivitamin supplements.[16]:347 Another common supplemental form of the vitamin is calcium pantothenate. Calcium pantothenate is often used in dietary supplements because, as a salt, it is more stable than pantothenic acid in the digestive mentation may improve oxygen utilization efficiency and reduce lactic acid accumulation in athletes.[16]
oxicity[edit]
Toxicity of pantothenic acid is unlikely. In fact, no Tolerable Upper Level Intake (UL) has been established for the vitamin.[17] Large doses of the vitamin, when ingested, have no reported side effects and massive doses (e.g., 10 g/day) may only yield mild intestinal distress, and diarrhea at worst.[8] It has been suggested, however, that high doses of pantothenic acid might worsen panic attacks in those with panic disorder by prolonging the duration until adrenal exhaustion.[citation needed]
There are also no adverse reactions known following parenteral or topical application of the vitamin.[19]
Research[edit]
Given pantothenic acid's prevalence among living things and the limited body of studies in deficiency, many uses of pantothenic acid have been the subject of research.
Diabetic ulceration[edit]
Foot ulceration is a problem commonly associated with diabetes, which often leads to amputation.[20] A preliminary study completed by Abdelatif, Yakoot and Etmaan indicated that perhaps a royal jelly and panthenol ointment can help cure the ulceration.[20] People with foot ulceration or deep tissue infection in the study had a 96% and 92% success rate of recovery.[20] While these results appear promising, they need to be validated, as this was a pilot study; it was not a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study.[20]
Hypolipidemic effects[edit]
Pantothenic acid derivatives, panthenol, phosphopantethine and pantethine, have also been seen to improve the lipid profile in the blood and liver.[21] In this mouse model, they injected 150 mg of the derivative/kg body weight.[21] All three derivatives were able to effectively lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL), as well as triglyceride (TG) levels; panthenol was able to lower total cholesterol, and pantethine was able to lower LDL-cholesterol in the serum.[21] The decrease in LDL is significant, as it is related to a decrease the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke.[8] In the liver, panthenol was the most effective, as it lowered TG, total cholesterol, free cholesterol and cholesterol-ester levels.[21]
Glucuronolactone
Glucuronolactone is rapidly absorbed and metabolized into non-toxic metabolites such as xylulose. In addition, humans may be able to use glucuronolactone as a precursor for ascorbic acid synthesis.[3] According to The Merck Index, it is also used as a detoxicant.[4]
Glucuronolactone is a popular ingredient in energy drinks with claims that it detoxifies the body. Although levels of glucuronolactone in energy drinks can far exceed those found in the rest of the diet, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has concluded that exposure to glucuronolactone from regular consumption of energy drinks is not a safety concern. The no-observed-adverse-effect level of glucuronolactone is 1000 mg/kg/day.[5]

Inositol
sychiatric conditions[edit]
Some preliminary results of studies on high-dose inositol supplements show promising results for people suffering from problems such as bulimia, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), agoraphobia, and unipolar and bipolar depression.[21][22][23]
Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 1997 May;7(2):147-55.
In a single double-blind study on 13 patients, myo-inositol (18 grams daily) has been found to reduce the symptoms of OCD significantly, with effectiveness equal to SSRIs and virtually without side-effects.[24] In a double-blind, controlled trial, myo-inositol (18 grams daily) was superior to fluvoxamine for decreasing the number of panic attacks and other side-effects.[21]
A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of depressed patients showed that a high dose of inositol (12 grams daily) resulted in significant improvement of symptoms, with no changes noted in liver, kidney, or hematological function.[22] A meta-analysis that included only four randomized trials of inositol for depression could not determine whether or not inositol is of benefit for depression. However, in addition to studies against placebo, the meta-analysis included only four trials and took the unusual steps of contacting pharmaceutical companies for any unpublishable studies to include, and of including studies comparing the effect of inositol against known effective treatments, without placebo. The studies of the latter type were larger and had more weight. [25]
Guarana Extract
Guarana is a plant named for the Guarani tribe in the Amazon, who used the seeds to brew a drink. Today, guarana seeds are still used as medicine.

Guarana is used for weight loss, to enhance athletic performance, as a stimulant, and to reduce mental and physical fatigue. It is a frequent addition to energy and weightloss products.

Some people also use guarana to treat low blood pressure and chronic fatiguesyndrome (CFS), and to prevent malaria and dysentery. It is also used to enhance sexual desire, to increase urine flow, and as an astringent.

Other uses include treatment of ongoing diarrhea, fever, heart problems, headache,joint pain, backache, and heat stress.

In food manufacturing, guarana has been used as a flavoring ingredient in beverages and candy.
How does it work?
Guarana contains caffeine. Caffeine works by stimulating the central nervous system(CNS), heart, and muscles. Guarana also contains theophylline and theobromine, which are chemicals similar to caffeine.
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Medicinal uses[edit]
Pyridoxine is given to patients taking isoniazid (INH) to combat the toxic side effects of the drug. It is given to people on isoniazide to prevent peripheral neuropathy and CNS effects that are associated with the use of INH.
Pyridoxine deficiency can lead to sideroblastic anemia.
It is also essential for patients with extremely rare pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy, thought to be caused by mutations in the ALDH7A1gene.
In one form of homocystinuria, activity of the deficient enzyme can be enhanced by the administration of large doses of pyridoxine (100-1000 mg/day).
Vitamin B6 can be compounded into a variety of different dosage forms. It can be used orally as a tablet, capsule, or solution. It can also be used as a nasal spray or for injection when in its solution form.
Vitamin B6 is usually safe at regular intakes. However, vitamin B6 can cause neurological disorders, such as loss of sensation in legs and imbalance, when taken in high doses over a long period of time. Vitamin B6 toxicity can damage sensory nerves, leading to numbness in the hands and feet as well as difficulty walking. Symptoms of a pyridoxine overdose may include poor coordination, staggering, numbness, decreased sensation to touch, temperature, and vibration, and tiredness for up to six months.[3] One study reported that over a 6-month period or longer, 21% of women taking doses greater than 50 mg daily experienced neurological toxicity.[4] The effect of doses below 50 mg was not reported. Pyridoxine's fetal safety is "A" in Briggs' Reference Guide to Fetal and Neonatal Risk.[5] Its also used to treat aVitamin B6 deficiency.
Chemistry[edit]
It is based on a pyridine ring, with hydroxyl, methyl, and hydroxymethyl substituents. It is converted to the biologically active form pyridoxal 5-phosphate.
Function in the body[edit]
Vitamin B6 assists in the balancing of sodium and potassium as well as promoting red blood cell production.[citation needed] It is linked to cardiovascular health by decreasing the formation of homocysteine. Pyridoxine may help balance hormonal changes in women and aid the immune system.[6] Lack of pyridoxine may cause anemia, nerve damage, seizures, skin problems, and sores in the mouth.[7]
It is required for the production of the monoamine neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine, as it is the precursor to pyridoxal phosphate: cofactor for the enzyme aromatic amino acid decarboxylase. This enzyme is responsible for converting the precursors 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) into serotonin and melatonin, and levodopa(L-DOPA) into dopamine, noradrenaline and adrenaline. As such it has been implicated in the treatment of depression and anxiety.[citation needed]
Cyanocobalamin
Cyanocobalamin injection is used to treat and prevent a lack of vitamin B12 that may be caused by any of the following: pernicious anemia (lack of a natural substance needed to absorb vitamin B12 from the intestine); certain diseases, infections, or medications that decrease the amount of vitamin B12 absorbed from food; or a vegan diet (strict vegetarian diet that does not allow any animal products, including dairy products and eggs). Lack of vitamin B12 may cause anemia (condition in which the red blood cells do not bring enough oxygen to the organs) and permanent damage to the nerves. Cyanocobalamin injection also may be given as a test to see how well the body can absorb vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin injection is in a class of medications called vitamins. Because it is injected straight into the bloodstream, it can be used to supply vitamin B12to people who cannot absorb this vitamin through the intestine.
How should this medicine be used?
Cyanocobalamin comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected into a muscle or just under the skin. It is usually injected by a healthcare provider in an office or clinic. You will probably receive cyanocobalamin injection once a day for the first 6-7 days of your treatment. As your red blood cells return to normal, you will probably receive the medication every other day for 2 weeks, and then every 3-4 days for 2-3 weeks. After your anemia has been treated, you will probably receive the medication once a month to prevent your symptoms from coming back.
Cyanocobalamin injection will supply you with enough vitamin B12 only as long as you receive injections regularly. You may receive cyanocobalamin injections every month for the rest of your life. Keep all appointments to receive cyanocobalamin injections even if you feel well. If you stop receiving cyanocobalamin injections, your anemia may return and your nerves may be damaged.
Other uses for this medicine
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Cyanocobalamin injection is also sometimes used to treat inherited conditions that decrease the absorption of vitamin B12 from the intestine. Cyanocobalamin injection is also sometimes used to treat methylmalonic aciduria (an inherited disease in which the body cannot break down protein) and is sometimes given to unborn babies to prevent methylmalonic aciduria after birth. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.
Caffeine
Caffeine Myths and Facts
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Caffeine myth or caffeine fact? It's not always easy to know. Chances are you have some real misperceptions about caffeine. For starters, do you know the most common sources of caffeine? Well, maybe two of the sources aren't too hard to name -- coffee and tea leaves. But did you know kola nuts and cocoa beans are also included among the most common caffeine sources? And do you know how much caffeine content can vary from food to food? Turns out it's quite a lot actually, depending on the type and serving size of a food or beverage and how it's prepared.
Caffeine content can range from as much as 160 milligrams in some energy drinks to as little as 4 milligrams in a 1-ounce serving of chocolate-flavored syrup. Even decaffeinated coffee isn't completely free of caffeine. Caffeine is also present in some over-the-counter pain relievers, cold medications, and diet pills. These products can contain as little as 16 milligrams or as much as 200 milligrams of caffeine. In fact, caffeine itself is a mild painkiller and increases the effectiveness of other pain relievers.
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Want to know more? Read on. WebMD has examined some of the most common myths about caffeine and gathered the facts to shed some light on those myths.
Caffeine Myth No. 1: Caffeine Is Addictive
This one has some truth to it, depending on what you mean by "addictive." Caffeine is a stimulant to the central nervous system, and regular use of caffeine does cause mild physical dependence. But caffeine doesn't threaten your physical, social, or economic health the way addictive drugs do. (Although after seeing your monthly spending at the coffee shop, you might disagree!)
If you stop taking caffeine abruptly, you may have symptoms for a day or more, especially if you consume two or more cups of coffee a day. Symptoms of withdrawal from caffeine include:
• headache
• fatigue
• anxiety
• irritability
• depressed mood
• difficulty concentrating
No doubt, caffeine withdrawal can make for a few bad days. However, caffeine does not cause the severity of withdrawal or harmful drug-seeking behaviors as street drugs or alcohol. For this reason, most experts don't consider caffeine dependence a serious addiction.
Caffeine Myth No. 2: Caffeine Is Likely to Cause Insomnia
Your body quickly absorbs caffeine. But it also gets rid of it quickly. Processed mainly through the liver, caffeine has a relatively short half-life. This means it takes about five to seven hours, on average, to eliminate half of it from your body. After eight to 10 hours, 75% of the caffeine is gone. For most people, a cup of coffee or two in the morning won't interfere with sleep at night.
Consuming caffeine later in the day, however, can interfere with sleep. If you're like most people, your sleep won't be affected if you don't consume caffeine at least six hours before going to bed. Your sensitivity may vary, though, depending on your metabolism and the amount of caffeine you regularly consume. People who are more sensitive may not only experience insomnia but also have caffeine side effects of nervousness and gastrointestinal upset.
Caffeine Myth No. 3: Caffeine Increases the Risk of Osteoporosis, Heart Disease, and Cancer
Moderate amounts of daily caffeine -- about 300 milligrams, or three cups of coffee -- apparently cause no harm in most healthy adults. Some people are more vulnerable to its effects, however. That includes such people as those who have high blood pressure or are older. Here are the facts:
• Osteoporosis and caffeine. At high levels (more than 744 milligrams/day), caffeine may increase calcium and magnesium loss in urine. But recent studies suggest it does not increase your risk for bone loss, especially if you get enough calcium. You can offset the calcium lost from drinking one cup of coffee by adding just two tablespoons of milk. However, research does show some links between caffeine and hip fracture risk in older adults. Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine on calcium metabolism. If you're an older woman, discuss with your health care provider whether you should limit your daily caffeine intake to 300 milligrams or less.
• Cardiovascular disease and caffeine. A slight, temporary rise in heart rate and blood pressure is common in those who are sensitive to caffeine. But several large studies do not link caffeine to higher cholesterol, irregular heartbeats, or an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. If you already have high blood pressure or heart problems, though, have a discussion with your doctor about your caffeine intake. You may be more sensitive to its effects. Also, more research is needed to tell whether caffeine increases the risk for stroke in people with high blood pressure.
• Cancer and caffeine. Reviews of 13 studies involving 20,000 people revealed no relationship between cancer and caffeine. In fact, caffeine may even have a protective effect against certain cancers.
Caffeine Myth No. 4: Caffeine Is Harmful for Women Trying to Get Pregnant
Many studies show no links between low amounts of caffeine (a cup of coffee per day) and any of the following:
• trouble conceiving
• miscarriage
• birth defects
• premature birth
• low birth rate
At the same time, for pregnant women or those attempting pregnancy, the March of Dimes suggests fewer than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day. That's largely because in limited studies, women consuming higher amounts of caffeine had an increased risk for miscarriage.
Caffeine Myth No. 5: Caffeine Has a Dehydrating Effect
Caffeine can make you need to urinate. However, the fluid you consume in caffeinated beverages tends to offset the effects of fluid loss when you urinate. The bottom line is that although caffeine does act as a mild diuretic, studies show drinking caffeinated drinks in moderation doesn't actually cause dehydration.

Caffeine Myth No. 6: Caffeine Harms Children, Who, Today, Consume Even More Than Adults
As of 2004, children ages 6 to 9 consumed about 22 milligrams of caffeine per day. This is well within the recommended limit. However, energy drinks that contain a lot of caffeine are becoming increasingly popular, so this number may go up.
Some kids are sensitive to caffeine, developing temporary anxiety or irritability, with a "crash" afterwards. Also, most caffeine that kids drink is in sodas, energy drinks, or sweetened teas, all of which have high sugar content. These empty calories put kids at higher risk for obesity.
Even if the caffeine itself isn't harmful, caffeinated drinks are generally not good for kids.
Caffeine Myth No. 7: Caffeine Can Help You Sober Up
Actually, research suggests that people only think caffeine helps them sober up. For example, people who drink caffeine along with alcohol think they're OK behind the wheel. But the truth is reaction time and judgment are still impaired. College kids who drink both alcohol and caffeine are actually more likely to have car accidents.
Caffeine Myth No. 8: Caffeine Has No Health Benefits
Caffeine has few proven health benefits. But the list of caffeine's potential benefits is interesting. Any regular coffee drinker may tell you that caffeine improves alertness, concentration, energy, clear-headedness, and feelings of sociability. You might even be the type who needs that first cup o' Joe each morning before you say a single word. Scientific studies support these subjective findings. One French study even showed a slower decline in cognitive ability among women who consumed caffeine.
Other possible benefits include helping certain types of headache pain. Some people's asthma also appears to benefit from caffeine. These research findings are intriguing, but still need to be proven.
Limited evidence suggests caffeine may also reduce the risk of the following:
• Parkinson's disease
• liver disease
• colorectal cancer
• type 2 diabetes
• dementia
Despite its potential benefits, don't forget that high levels of caffeine may have adverse effects. More studies are needed to confirm both its benefits and potential risks.
Salt
Table salt is made up of just under 40% sodium by weight, so a 6 g serving (1 teaspoon) contains about 2,300 mg of sodium.[48] Sodium serves a useful purpose in the human body: it helps nerves and muscles to function correctly, and it is one of the factors involved in the regulation of water content (fluid balance).[49] Most of the sodium in the Western diet comes from salt.[50] The habitual salt intake in many Western countries is about 10 g per day, and it is higher than that in many countries in Eastern Europe and Asia.[51] The high level of sodium in many processed foods has a major impact on the total amount consumed.[52] In the United States, 77% of the sodium eaten comes from processed and restaurant foods, 11% from cooking and table use and the rest from what is found naturally in foodstuffs.[53]
Too much sodium appears to be bad for health, and health organizations generally recommend that people reduce their dietary intake of salt.[54][55] High salt intake is associated with a greater risk of stroke and total cardiovascular disease in susceptible people.[51] Direct evidence, however, is unclear if a low salt diet affects overall or cardiovascular related deaths.[56] In adults and children with no acute illness, a decrease in the intake of sodium from the typical high levels reduces blood pressure.[54][57] A low salt diet results in a greater improvement in blood pressure in those with hypertension than in those without.[58]
The World Health Organization recommends that all adults should consume less than 2,000 mg of sodium (which is equivalent to 5 g of salt) per day[55] with some advocating for less than 1,200 mg of sodium (3 g of salt) per day.[54] There is insufficient evidence to show that there is additional benefit in lowering sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day.[59] In those with heart failure a very low sodium diet may be worse than a diet with slightly more salt.[56]

Love them! If they werent so expensive, Id drink more.