Since our energy drink is so unique, there are many question that IBOs should be prepared to answer in order to present the most useful and beneficial information. We've heard the questions, tallied the charts, and put together a list of the most valuable and practical questions and answers to help you, the IBO, get the word out. Use them, print them, note them or just memorize, but be sure to tell everyone about the best energy drink on the market, XS Energy Drink!

Q: How does XS taste so good without sugar, carbs and so few calories?
A: XS drinks use a proprietary blend of Sucralose (Splenda), Acesulfame Potassium (Ace K) and fruit essences to give the drinks their great flavor without sugar or empty calories. In fact, the 8 calories in the drink come from the 2 grams of amino acids, which are protein calories.

Q: How does XS give you energy?
A: XS boosts energy by:

1. ATP energy production is improved with the help of Vitamin B3 (niacin), which is found in the XS energy drink, and serves as a precursor. Niacin is involved in the production of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), a requirement for redox reactions in Krebs cycle during the energy-producing period of oxidative phosphorylation. Niacin is also essential in the production of NADPH, which is necessary for the synthesis of both fatty acids and steroids.
   
   Mitochondria
   Mitochondria are responsible for stripping electrons from the energy in the food we consume. ATP, the main energy "unit", is produced through the mitochondria by mixing oxygen and glucose. It is uncertain how mitochondria strip this energy from our food, but it is clear that high blood sugar damages these energy powerhouses inside of our cells. Sugar is harmful to our cell mitochondria because of oxidative damage. This is a central feature of aging and toxicity causing free radical oxidative damage to the mitochondrial DNA.


2. Nutritional precursors to brain function: Vitamin B12 has been used in clinical practice for over 50 years to improve energy and prevent fatigue. Many doctors feel that patients need higher levels of B12 supplementation than is found in the average diet. In fact, some medical studies have shown that vitamin B12 deficiency can be difficult to determine from standard B12 lab tests. For this reason, XS has provided higher levels of B12 than suggested by the RDA. Studies show that about 25% of the population consume less than the RDA. The RDA is set at 2.4 micrograms (mcg), which most nutritional physicians consider to be to low. Research shows that B12 can give extra energy. Higher doses of B12, 100-2000 mcg/day, have been found to increase energy.
   
   Doctors have found high levels of B12 to be safe, so XS energy drink offers several hundred micrograms of cyanocobalamin and vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is helpful in improving mood and energy and has also been found to be involved in many neurotransmitters.
   
   Vitamin B12
   B12 is considered the "energy" vitamin and people generally feel more energetic taking it. It is involved with normal cellular metabolism and participates with folic acid, choline and methionine in the transfer of methyl groups for the synthesis of nucleic acids.
   
   Vitamin B12 deficiency can be difficult to determine from standard B12 lab tests
   At least six neurological and psychiatric papers in top medical journals have shown that the normal range of B12 should be regarded as at least 500-1,300 pg/ml (rather than 200-1,100 pg/ml). (Dommisse, J "Subtle vitamin-B12 deficiency and psychiatry: An often unnoticed but devastating relationship?". MEDICAL HYPOTHESES 34 (1991), 2 (Feb): 131-140).
   
   These studies show that the brain does not get nearly enough B12 as proven by evidence that the cerebrospinal fluid level can be deficient when the blood level drops below 500. Neuropsychiatric symptoms of depression often occur at serum levels between 200 and 500 pg/ml even though normal blood ranges are said to be between 200-1,100. Another misconception is that neuropsychiatric effects of B12 deficiency (fatigue and depression) are always accompanied by a macrocytic anemia. For further information, a leading expert on the importance of B12 and brain function is Dr. John Dommisse.
   
   XS has higher levels of B12
   XS has 294 mcg/can, to be exact. 6 micrograms is the current RDA, so 294/6 X 100 = 4900%.
   
   Research shows that B12 can supply extra energy
   A study proved that 28 men and women who complained of tiredness but had normal serum B-12 levels and no other physical problems were treated with vitamin B12. Injections of B12 went as follows: 5000 mcg twice a day for 2 weeks followed by a 2 week rest period. The results concluded that they had improved energy levels whereas placebo had no effect. (Ellis FR, Nasser S. A pilot study of B-12 in the treatment of tiredness. Brit J Nutr. 30:277-83, 1973).
   
   Doctors have found high levels of B12 to be safe
   There are no known issues of toxicity in terms of B12 consumption. When you examine multiple clinical studies on B12, the minimum dose is 100 mcg. Most doctors use varying amounts between 100 and 3000 mcg for treatment and testing. There is no better proof of the safety in B12 treatment than the experience of Dr. HL Newbold in New York City. He had his patients inject themselves three times daily with triple-strength doses of B12 (9000 mcg/day) on an indefinite basis. This instance was a true pharmacologically-approved B12 treatment. These patients developed serum B12 levels of 200,000 pg/ml and more, and reportedly never had any significant side effects(Newbold HL. Vitamin-B12: Placebo or neglected therapeutic tool? Med Hypoth 1989; 28: 155-164).
   
   Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) has been found to be involved in many neurotransmitters.
   Vitamin B6, pyridoxine, is involved in the metabolism of amino acids. B6 is also involved in the formation of several key neurotransmitters, and the production of serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. Vitamin B6 deficiency can cause depression, altered mobility and alertness, hyperirritability, abnormal head movements and convulsions. The main cause of B6 deficiency are the chemical antagonists like hydrazine dyes, hydralazine (a medication for hypertension), succinic acid 2,2-dimethylhydrazide (speeds the ripening of fruits), tartrazine (yellow dye #5), birth control pills, alcohol, caramel coloring and maleic hydrazide (a plant growth inhibitor and herbicide). In fact, potato chips have particularly high levels of maleic hydrazide with as high as 25 mg per 6-oz. bag of chips.


3. Optimizing adrenal function with a proprietary blend of herbs and vitamins, which have been shown to be a class of therapeutic compounds. Certain herbs and supplements can help the body adapt to chronic stress which can cause low energy and fatigue. The adrenal glands produce stress hormones in response to sensations of anxiety, fear and pain. The book Energize Your Life by Peter Bennett ND and Stephen Barrie ND has extensive information on problems caused by stress hormones. The book has practical examples of how to protect your body from daily health problems caused by stress that affect millions of people. Adrenal exhaustion generally happens after prolonged periods of stress. Over time, the body over-secretes cortisol due to daily stress from family, work, and sports causing fatigue. Cortisol prolongs the "flight or fight" response by promoting a sustained rush of energy. Symptoms of adrenal deficiency include situations similar to ones treated with antidepressant medication prescribed by medical doctors. Eventually, chronic stress can take on the clinical picture and features of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
   
   Proprietary Blend of Herbs
   Our proprietary herb blend is vitamins, amino acids and herbs that aid the body in managing proper levels of stress and cortisol. When your body stresses it produces higher than normal levels of cortisol. This is an early stage of adaptation. The later stages of adaptation create a scenario where cortisol levels plummet, and energy levels with follow. Cortisol in the blood stream sends a message to your body that you need sugar. This causes sweet cravings, weight gain and an increased risk, over a long period of time, of diabetes.
   
   Athletes will find that the speed of their recovery times increases after workouts using our proprietary herb blend. The combination of herbs in XS Energy Drinks is very similar to the blend used by Russian Olympic athletes to overcome stress from their workouts and radically reduce recovery times.

Q: What is the proprietary herb blend in XS and how can they help me?
A: XS contains a proprietary herb blend of Gandoderma, Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus Senticosus), Astragalus, Echinacea Purpurea, Korean or Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng), American Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium) and Schisandra as well as amino acids L-Taurine and L-Glutamine.

When you begin exercising to lose weight, the increased demand on your body can cause fatigue. This is not what you need at this point in your regimen! To help with this, choosing herbs that naturally and safely boost performance is an effective solution.

Added to this powerful combination is caffeine, B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B12 and B6 (pyridoxine) all helping to stimulate energy production in the brain and body.

Some of the XS drinks have bioflavonoids. These are naturally occurring compounds found in fruits and vegetables which have remarkable antioxidant properties.

The proprietary blend of herbs in XS was selected from a formula tested by Russian scientists on athletes. XS was originally developed into a drink by Josh Bradbury and the ingredients were carefully formulated in order to give athletes competitive results..

One of the key ingredients in XS is the unique proprietary Triple Ginseng Blend.
American Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium), Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus Senticosus), and Korean or Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) are probably the most potent herbal blend known. All three are related by the ginsenosides they contain, but each has unique properties that improve concentration, mental sharpness, physical stamina, work capacity and immune function. XS is the only energy drink that contains all three..

Korean or Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng)
Panax ginseng is famous in Asia for increasing energy and has been used by herbalists for over a thousand years. Medical studies have shown ginseng to reduce high blood sugar. Doctors use it as a cardiac tonic, a liver tonic, stimulant, cholesterol reducer, atherosclerosis prevention, and sex drive improvement. The Chinese have held that it works because it increases the Qi, or vital energy, in the body. Patients with heart disease, stress, diabetes, poor digestion, weakness after long illness and fatigue from aging report excellent results.

American Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium)
This valuable herb was first used by the Eclectic medical doctors in the 19th century throughout the mid-West. For over one hundred years, ginseng hunters and dealers have gone into the mountains of North Carolina looking for wild roots to pick and sell. These ginseng roots sharpen the nerve centers and circulation in the brain, helps with failure of digestion from nervous exhaustion, helps defeat tiredness, overexertion, neurasthenia, nervous breakdown, and mild depression. Research has shown that they reduce cholesterol, prevent atherosclerosis, and lower blood sugar levels. The main purpose for it is to aid weakness after long illness, injury, or surgery.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus Senticosus)
Eleutherococcus Senticosus was formerly known as Acanthopanax Senticosus and is a general tonic, vasodilator and mild anti-rheumatic.

Ginsenosides
The active ingredient in ginseng is something called a triterpenoid saponin, which is a steroid found in plants. There are at least 13 different ones in Asian Ginseng, one of the three found in XS. These saponins are labeled with scientific jargon that describes them as R0 and Rg1, Rg2 etc. The three XS ginsengs share a number of these saponins, but some are found in higher amounts in each type of ginseng. For instance, American Ginseng (Panax Quinquefolium) has very low levels of Rg1, but very high levels of Rb1 and Re. The Rg1 ginsenoside is the marker that the German E monographs outline as the key ginsenoside when checking for clinical dosages for Asian Ginseng or Panax Ginseng. The typical suggested dose is 5 mg of ginsenosides with a ratio of 2:1 for the Rb1 to Rg1. To obtain this concentration, one might have to take 100 mg of a high quality Panax Ginseng.

Echinacea Purpurea
Echinacea has a long cultural history with the North American Indians as a powerful healing agent. Research, primarily done in Germany, shows that the flowering herb stimulates the immune system, which can become weakened during times of stress & fatigue. Traditional uses by medical practitioners include treatment for viral and bacterial infections, especially chronic infections of the respiratory tract, prevention of colds and influenza, immunodepression, and mild septicaemia.

Scientific studies show that Echinacea extracts stimulate phagocytosis of neutrophil white blood cells. Polysaccharide fractions enhanced secretion of cytokines such as interleukin-1, interferon-b, and tumor necrosis factor-a as well as some proliferation of T-cells.

Research on uses with colds and flu show that Echinacea purpurea provided lower frequency of cold or flu infection compared to placebo. (Schoenberger, D. The influence of immune-stimulating effects of pressed juice from Echinacea purpurea on the course and severity of colds. Forum Immunol. 8:2-12; 1992).

Constituents of Echinacea include alkamides, phenylpropanoids, Caffeic acid esters, flavonoids, high molecular weight polysaccharides (rhamnoarabinogalactan and heteroxylan), inulin, and volatile oils.

Schisandra
This plant is a shrub with berries that increase energy levels and improves concentration, coordination, endurance, and liver function. There is a great deal of information available on the internet demonstrating that Schisandra is beneficial for liver disease. This herb accelerates the liver's ability to cleanse itself of toxins. At the same time, it helps repair liver cells that have been damaged by environmental toxins. Therefore, there are no safety issues in this regard. It would be helpful to know what types of liver problems are present because in cases of Hepatitis C, Schisandra can actually help by improving immune function.

Studies in China have found that Schisandra and its active components are effective against viral and chemical-induced hepatitis. Schisandra was shown to lower SGPT levels in patients with chronic viral hepatitis and decreases the hepatotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride in animals. DDB, a synthetic analogue of Schizandrin C, is used widely in China as a hepato-protective drug. Fortunately, it is highly effective at normalizing liver functions and there are very few side-effects. Pharmacological studies on the bioactive lignans in Schisandra proved that they increased liver protein and glycogen synthesis, inhibited carbon tetrachloride, induced lipid peroxidation, and had an inducing effect on the cytochrome P-450 enzyme system.

Astragalus Membranosa
Astragalus is a root used by Chinese herbalists as a tonic for the immune system. The root strengthens the immune system, which can become weakened during times of stress and fatigue.

Gandoderma (Reishi) Mushroom
Gandoderma has powerful immune-stimulating constituents used to prevent fatigue and reduce stress. It is also a potent immune system enhancer with significant anti-tumor effects.

Glutamine
Glutamine is an amino acid that has been used by many athletes to enhance recovery. Glutamine increases growth hormone levels allowing for muscle development. It also draws water into the muscle and enhances glycogen deposition, which creates a favorable environment for further muscle growth. This repair aid coupled with the anti-oxidant effectiveness of glutamine makes it a near magic potion for an athlete's recovery!

How should it be taken to obtain the best results? With the addition of this supplementation to an athlete's recovery regimen, muscle repair should speed up and optimum performance should be re-attained much more rapidly!

Taurine
Taurine is another "non-essential" amino acid which has been shown to provide significant benefit to those individuals who want to optimize performance and energy production. Taurine is one of the sulfur-containing amino acids along with cystine, cysteine and methionine. Under certain conditions, such as hypertension, heart disease, and seizure disorders, the body's requirement for taurine increases considerably. Taurine modulates the production and activity of cAMP and is intimately involved with the contractility of the heart. It facilitates the passage of sodium, potassium and possibly calcium and magnesium through the cell membrane.

B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Pantothenic Acid/Vitamin B5 is involved in stress hormone production. It is also involved in the Krebs cycle for the production of ATP, which is the universal source of energy in the body. Studies have shown that B5 increases adaptation in strength and endurance under stress in humans and in animals. B5 or pantothenic acid is the "stress vitamin" because of the many ways that it protects the body by supporting the adrenal glands.

B3 (Niacin)
B3 treats arthritis, diabetes, and plays a critical role in energy metabolism within cells. It serves as a powerful energy generator for the body. B3 is also involved in detoxification reactions in the liver to help keep the blood free of toxins.

B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6 deficiency is quite common, especially in the last 25 years. More B6 is being refined out of our food and there are no laws requiring that there be subsequent enrichment. Pyridoxine deficiency has especially been seen in women using birth control pills because of the effect these drugs have on liver function. Chemicals found in the environment hinder the utilization of the B6 that we get from our diet. Symptoms of deficiency include depression, nausea, mucous membrane lesions, seborrheic dermatitis and peripheral neuritis.

Bioflavonoids
Bioflavonoids are natural antioxidants preventing free radical damage in the brain, gums, musculoskeletal and cardiovascular system. They also improve collagen structure, such as gums in the mouth, preventing its degradation. (Blomhoff, R..Antioxidants and oxidative stress Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 2004 Jun 17;124(12):1643-5.) Plants with the highest values include dog rose, sour cherry, blackberry, crowberry, blueberry, walnuts, sunflower seed, pomegranate and ginger.

Bioflavonoids, which come from fruits such as cherries and pomegranates, are essential for optimum health. For example, the bioflavonoids in cherries have been found in medical research to help gout and arthritic conditions. The active ingredient is not known, but keracyanin, the coloring agent, is suspected to be the beneficial component. The anthocyanins and cyanidin from cherries provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to be superior to vitamin E. ("Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Anthocyanins and Their Aglycon, Cyanidin, From Tart Cherries," Wang H, et al, J Nat Prod, 1999;62(2):294-296.)

A Michigan State University study found that 20 cherries contain between 12 and 25 mg of anthocyanins, a dose that is 10 times more potent than aspirin in relieving pain. There was also strong antioxidant effects similar to those found in vitamins E and C. ("Cherry Relief," Nutrition Week, March 12, 1999;29(10):7. New Scientist, February 6, 1999;161(2172):7) In a study of 12 cases of gout, the uric acid of the blood was reduced to normal values and no attacks of gouty arthritis occurred in all 12 patients who ate fresh or canned cherries on a daily basis. Four of the cases reported greater freedom of joints of the fingers and toes ("Cherry Diet Control for Gout and Arthritis," Blau, Ludwig W., Texas Rep. Biol. Med., 1950;8:309-312.)

Pomegranate has similar bioflavonoid properties to cherries and is blessed with a high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity assay (ORAC) value. This means that it is highly efficient as a natural antioxidant.

Studies in experimental animals have demonstrated the beneficial effects of plant-based bioflavonoids against age-related neurodegeneration, cancer and atherosclerosis. Studies in humans have shown that pomegranate helps improve periodontal disease, a classic example of oxidant stress on gums. (Sastravaha G, et al. Adjunctive periodontal treatment with Centella asiatica and Punica granatum extracts. A preliminary study. J Int Acad Periodontol. 2003 Oct;5(4):106-15.)

The miracle fruit, in terms of health-conscious consumers, proves to be pomegranate because it has shown to provide efficient antioxidant protection against cardiovascular disease. (Aviram M, et al. Pomegranate juice consumption for 3 years by patients with carotid artery stenosis reduces common carotid intima-media thickness, blood pressure and LDL oxidation. Clin Nutr. 2004 Jun;23(3):423-33.) In one study, dietary supplementation with polyphenolic antioxidants from pomegranate juice to animals was shown to be associated with inhibition of LDL oxidation and macrophage foam cell formation, and slowing of atherosclerosis development.

Pomegranate also seems to play a part in lowering high levels of blood pressure. (Aviram M, Dornfeld L..Pomegranate Juice Consumption Inhibits Serum Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Activity and Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure. Atherosclerosis, 2001;158:195-198. ) A daily dose of pomegranate juice for 2 weeks showed a 36% reduction in serum angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity and a 5% reduction in systolic blood pressure.

Q:Why does XS have zero carbs?
A: We believe that the majority of healthcare problems in developed countries of the world are directly attributed to sugar consumption. That sugar happens to be the most refined form of carbohydrates.

Sugar has the ability to rapidly enter the blood stream because it is an unnaturally refined food product. Sugar is known to cause cancer, cardiovascular disease, and immune problems. It increases fats in the blood, raises blood sugar and insulin, causes tissue hardening in the brain and kidneys, and suppresses white blood cell function.

Most 8-oz. energy drinks on the market today have over 100 calories that come from 27-30 grams of sugar. Most 12-oz. non-diet soft drinks have 170 calories from 40 grams of sugar. Most 5.5-oz. "natural" juice drinks have 80 calories from 20 grams of sugar.

Why are high sugar foods bad for you?
Sugar can be considered a slow poison to the body, given in steady amounts over a period of months and years. It causes cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, dental disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, kidney damage and obesity. Sugar does the most damage by raising blood glucose and blood insulin. When this goes unnoticed, the body becomes susceptible to a change in chemistry. Doctors have called this change, Syndrome X.

How does sugar in regular sugar drinks make me fat?
Calories from sugar and carbohydrates increase fat in the blood stream and in body tissues. Simple carbohydrates like sugar and refined wheat flour are also called high-glycemic (high sugar) foods. High-glycemic foods cause your body to produce insulin from the pancreas which sends a message to your body to store calories as fat. Low glycemic foods do not increase insulin to the same degree and aid in your body's natural metabolism of fat, using your body's fat resources as fuel. Many experts fear that the epidemic incidence of diabetes in North America today may be significantly contributed to by high-glycemic diets. The 8 calories in XS are from amino acids and are protein calories that aid your body's natural metabolic process. A new book, Energize Your Life, by Dr. Peter Bennett and Dr. Stephen Barrie provides a complete program on how to lose weight by increasing your energy.

How much sugar is in XS drink?
There is less than 1/2 calorie of sugar in XS Energy Drink. This qualifies for the government-approved statement "No Sugar". The 8 calories in XS are from amino acids and are protein calories that aid your body's natural metabolic process.

What is High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)?
HFCS is a sugar found in many other energy drinks. It tends to make people fat, and damage the balance of health in the body. Medical research has discovered six serious health-damaging effects caused by eating a high fructose diet.

Syndrome X
Syndrome X means:

1. Altered blood lipids (lower HDL and elevated triglycerides)
2. Resistance to insulin causing the body to increase production of insulin
3. Obesity
4. Elevated blood pressure.

Research suggests that 25% of the population has elevated insulin from insulin resistance. High blood insulin contributes to stroke, heart attack, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cancer, obesity, hormone imbalances, and accelerated aging. Hyperinsulinemia precedes the beginning of adult-onset diabetes by as much as ten years, and one-third of patients with diabetes develop the disease without even knowing it.

Historically, fasting blood sugar (blood sugar levels after not eating for at least 8 hours) has been relied upon to identify poor blood sugar regulation or dysglycemia. However, because many cases of dysglycemia exhibit a normal fasting glucose with elevated post-eating levels of glucose or insulin, glucose dysregulation of this type is missed in the "single blood glucose measurement" from a standard office visit.

High blood insulin was first discovered forty years ago by Dr. Joseph Kraft MD. Since then, our healthcare system has done little to lower the nation's risk for disease caused by simple carbohydrates. In 1973, Dr. Kraft performed glucose-insulin tolerance tests on 3,650 patients who were referred for the evaluation of suspected pre-diabetes glucose intolerance. He found 5 different insulin-response patterns, 4 of which were diagnostic or predictive of adult-onset diabetes and abnormal glucose response. Of those patients, 1,937 had abnormal glucose. The remaining individuals with perfectly normal glucose tolerance curves were reported as follows: 862 had abnormal insulin response patterns diagnostic of a pre-diabetes and an additional 240 were "borderline" predictive.

Thus 1,102 of the "normal" individuals were actually abnormal when the additional insulin tolerance data was used. This shows that a fasting blood sugar is not reliable to predict your risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Dr. Kraft went further to show that with appropriate diet control, improvement from abnormal to normal insulin tolerance response could be achieved.

• Syndrome X common physical characteristics: Central obesity, with a waist/hip ratio greater than 1 for men and .88 for women, with a BMI of less than 30.
• Syndrome X lab testing results: Blood lipids are normal except elevated triglycerides and low HDLs. Elevated fasting blood sugar, fasting insulin < 15 mcIU/ml, 2 hours post-prandial (75-gram glucose challenge) < 50 mcIU/ml.

Although the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends screening persons over age 45, early screening dramatically reduces the potential for complications.

Dysglycemia is often missed in the single fasting glucose measurement because it is not measuring post-prandial (after eating) levels of glucose or insulin.

Medical research has discovered six serious health-damaging effects caused by eating a high fructose diet

1. Fructose in corn syrup is sweeter than either sucrose or glucose (1.7 times sweeter than sucrose or table sugar), so eating it increases a craving for sweets.
2. Fructose sidesteps certain key regulatory processes in the body. For example, it does not have the same effect on insulin which diminishes an important feedback pathway involved with feelings of fullness.
3. Fructose appears to behave more like fat with respect to the insulin's role in body weight regulation; it doesn't increase leptin production or suppress production of ghrelin. That suggests that consuming a lot of fructose, like consuming too much fat, could contribute to weight gain. A lot of this is theoretical, but the studies to prove it are underway and biochemistry argues strongly in favor of labeling HFCS a "fat" sugar.
4. Fructose stimulates formation of fat in the blood more than other sweeteners. Fructose is converted in the liver into trigylcerides more efficiently than glucose. Like low-density lipoprotein (LDL), elevated levels of trigylcerides are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. A University of Minnesota study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2000 found that fructose "produced significantly higher [blood] levels" than did glucose.
5. Fructose causes an elevation of sorbitol in certain tissues. (Fields, M. The Metabolic Effects of Fructose. The Nutrition Report, June 1991;9(6):41,48.) Elevated sorbitol tissue levels are seen in diabetic humans and have been implicated in retinopathy, neuropathy and glomerular nephropathy. In rat models, long term feeding of fructose-enriched diets has lead to lesions similar to those in diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy. When high starch diets are used, they do not induce the same kidney or retinol pathology.
6. Fructose aggravates copper deficiency. Symptoms and signs of copper deficiency include anemia, hypercholesterolemia, impaired glucose tolerance, pancreatic atrophy, cardiomyopathy and mortality. Feeding animals a fructose-rich, copper-poor diet during pregnancy results in increased mortality rates in the fetus and the neonate. A copper adequate diet with starch during pregnancy did not interfere with pregnancy outcome. In addition, fructose consumption during lactation often results in the reduction of copper concentration in breastmilk.

Q: How is XS sweetened?
A: Sucralose and Acesulfame potassium, or Ace-K, are combined to sweeten XS. Sucralose and Ace-K have been found to be entirely safe for human consumption. One advantage of these sweeteners is the harmless effects on the teeth because neither of these sweeteners cause tooth decay. The amount of Ace-K and sucralose we use is proprietary information.

Sucralose
Sucralose, also known as Splenda, is made in America and sold by a division of Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceuticals. That is same company that makes Tylenol. Sucralose is produced by chlorinating regular table sugar (sucrose). This involves chemically changing the structure of the sugar molecules by substituting three chlorine atoms for three hydroxyl groups. Before you become concerned, you can be rest assured that there is no chlorine in XS Energy Drinks.

Acesulfame
Acesulfame Potassium, also known as Sunnet brand sweetener, is made by Celanese Corp. and sold by Nutrinova in the US. Ace-K has performed well in toxicity studies in that, fortunately, no toxicity was found. Ace-K is a non-caloric, non-cariogenic (does not promote tooth decay), non-nutritive sweetener that delivers powerful, great-tasting sweetness (approximately 200 times as sweet as sucrose). It is preferred because its sweet taste is perceived quickly, does not linger, and does not persist longer than the taste of the product. It provides excellent sugar-like taste. For more information visit Interview with Dr. Laszlo Somogyi Ph.D.

The Mayo Clinic and the American Diabetes Association approve the use of Ace-K for diabetics. They approve of this artificial sweetener because it is calorie-free and no studies have found negative effects on blood sugar stability. To check out the Mayo Clinic approval of Ace-K, go to their website and in the search box type "Acesulfame".

Sucralose has been found to be entirely safe for human consumption
As an example of the safety research, several studies were recently completed in order to determine if any toxicity at high doses could be found using sucralose in human subjects. (Baird IM, Shephard NW, Merritt RJ, Hildick-Smith G. Repeated dose study of sucralose tolerance in human subjects. Food Chem Toxicol. 2000;38 Suppl 2:S123-9.)

In one study, where an ascending dose treatment was given to eight different subjects, sucralose was administered at doses of 1, 2.5, 5 and 10mg/kg body weight at 48-hour intervals and followed by daily dosing at 2mg/kg for 3 days and 5mg/kg for 4 days.

In the second study, 108 subjects consumed either sucralose (n=77) or fructose (50g/day) (n=31) twice daily. Sucralose dosage levels were 125mg/day for weeks 1-3, 250mg/day during weeks 4-7, and 500mg/day during weeks 8-12.

No adverse experiences or clinically detectable effects were attributable to sucralose in either study. Similarly, blood work, serum biochemistry, urinalysis and EKG tracings were unaffected by sucralose administration. In the 13-week study, serial slit lamp ophthalmologic examination performed in a random subset of the study groups revealed no changes. Fasting and 2-hour post-dosing blood sucralose concentrations obtained daily during week 12 of the study revealed no rising trend for blood sucralose.

Sucralose was well tolerated by human volunteers in single doses up to 10mg/kg/day and repeated doses increasing to 5mg/kg/day for 13 weeks. Based on these studies, and the extensive animal safety database, there is no indication that adverse effects on human health would occur from frequent or long-term exposure to sucralose at the maximum anticipated levels of intake.

Neither of these sweeteners cause tooth decay
The concerns about either of these sweeteners damaging teeth are unfounded. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that normally live in the mouth. The bacteria cling to teeth and form a sticky, colorless film called dental plaque. The bacteria in plaque live on sugars and cause decay by creating acids that dissolve minerals on tooth enamel surfaces. Tooth decay can also develop on the exposed roots of the teeth if you have gum disease or receding gums. Other conditions that might cause tooth decay are cyclic vomiting, usually found in bulemic patients and patients with "dry mouth" called Sjogren's syndrome. In fact, B6, one of the vitamins in XS, is used commonly used to prevent tooth decay in pregnant and post-natal women. Avoiding an unsweetened vitamin drink is not one of the statistics listed as a risk factor for dental caries.

The amount of Ace-K and sucralose used is proprietary information
However, in Canada and New Zealand maximum dosages were predetermined and outlined which we could not exceed. In Canada, the amount of Ace-K and sucralose is listed on the side of each can because of a specific health requirement in Canada. In the USA, the drinks do not exceed 200 ppm for Sucralose and 400ppm for Acesulfame Potassium.

Q: Is XS safe for diabetics?
A: XS drinks are exactly what diabetics have been looking for. With zero sugar, diabetics can safely enjoy great taste with great benefits and the extra boost of energy they need.

Q: Is XS a sports recovery drink?
A: A sports recovery drink emphasizes electrolyte (mineral) replacement in a 6% glucose solution. XS is different because it utilizes standardized herbal extracts with amino acids and vitamins to enhance adaptation to training and exertion as an alternative sports "recovery" strategy. Use of XS does not replace, diminish or marginalize the use of electrolyte and glucose re-hydration strategies. In fact, you should use both!

Alternative sports "recovery" strategy
XS is a different energy recovery drink because of the incorporation of the carefully chosen proprietary herb blend. Our proprietary blend of herbs, amino acids, and vitamins help the body manage proper levels of cortisol. Athletes will find that the speed of their recovery times increases after workouts using the proprietary blend of herbs, such as the blend found in XS Energy Drinks. The combination of herbs used in XS Energy Drinks is very similar to that used by Russian Olympic athletes to overcome stress from their workouts and radically reduce recovery times. American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium), Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), & Korean/Asian Ginseng (Panax Ginseng) is probably the most potent blend known.

Q: XS Energy Drink and "Banned Substances:"
A: There is nothing at the NCAA site or the National Center for Drug Free Sport site (NCDFS) that expresses a negative position on anything in XS. When you go to the NCDFS site there is a preface in the supplement section which says:

"Many of the substances mentioned in this section are banned for athletic use by the NCAA. Although some individuals may not regard some substances as banned, student athletes should check with the team physician, team trainer or qualified professional, and be particularly aware of such substances and metabolites of such banned substances."

On the NCAA list (which can be found on the NCAA site), the only discussion on vitamins, amino acids, minerals or herbs is:

"Many nutritional/dietary supplements contain NCAA banned substances. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not strictly regulate the supplement industry; therefore purity and safety of nutritional/dietary supplements cannot be guaranteed. Impure supplements may lead to a positive NCAA drug test. The use of supplements is at the student-athlete's own risk."

When you actually visit the NCAA site, there isn't a list of any supplements from the NCDFS site or the ingredients of a can of XS that are banned! Although there is ginseng in XS, there are acceptable and appropriate levels of ginseng.

Acceptable levels of ginseng
The amount of pure ginsenosides is quite low in each can. Athletes need to know this because there are some concerns that ginseng is a performance-enhancing substance. In terms of the current XS dose/can, the ginseng is a therapeutically insignificant dose. The typical suggested dose is 5 mg of ginsenosides with a ratio of 2:1 for the Rb1 to Rg1. To get this concentration, one might have to take 100 mg of a high quality Panax ginseng. To put this question in a comparative light, XS has about 1/100th the clinical dosage of ginsenoside Rg1 as described in the German E monographs for Korean ginseng.

Other herbs found in XS include Echinacea Purpurea, Schisandra, Astragalus, Gandoderma Reishi mushroom. None of these herbs are in clinically significant doses to warrant concern regarding performance enhancement.

Easing your concerns about drug adulteration in XS
Drug testing is a strict liability for collegiate athletes and they are continually under examination for infractions. The only concern from a coach's point of view would be the problem of XS being contaminated with banned substances. The truth is that the ingredients used in XS are free of any banned substances. The issue here is the purity of the substances in XS drinks. The problem for so many coaches is that they have no training or education in this area and they attempt to dodge the issue by saying supplements are suspect by regulating bodies (NCAA) and therefore should not be used.

What if my coach says not to use XS?
At XS, we believe that athletes and coaches should be careful with the nutritional choices that they make. But we disagree with the opinion of a coach or team nutritionist that all nutritional choices outside of food should be avoided. The XS brand has a good reputation for quality and the ingredients used are not tainted with steroids. There is nothing in the product that can be considered a negative for the performance of a competitive athlete. Deciding to adopt the approach that it is easier to avoid these issues by steering clear of products with stimulants than it is to deal with a positive test will fail to render solutions that allow performance athletes to achieve their high potential.

What about XS and the NCAA regulations on caffeine?
The only concern on the NCAA site regarding XS is that levels must be low enough so that an athlete will not test positive in their urine for caffeine-the concentration in urine should not exceed 15 micrograms/ml. If an athlete consumes a drink with 100 mg of caffeine and their urine is tested 75 minutes later (the standard), their urine will show 1.5 micrograms/ml, if you do the math that is 1/10 the limit. In other words, a person would have to consume 12 cans of XS (at 83 mg/can) to go over the "Banned Substances" allowed limit. Many coaches are excited to find out that small amounts of caffeine can be taken by athletes to improve training, as long as they don't over do it. For comparison sake, a typical cup of coffee contains anywhere from 40 mg to 150 mg of caffeine per cup. Some have higher amounts approaching 210 mg.

Q: Is there caffeine in XS Energy Drinks and Why?
Yes, there are 83 milligrams of caffeine in a can of XS Energy Drink. This is about the same amount of caffeine contained in a normal cup of coffee and most soft drinks. If you are caffeine-sensitive, please try our caffeine-free flavors.

Why is caffeine in the drinks?
Caffeine is actually proven to help neuromuscular functioning. This means that it helps your brain and muscles work more effectively and more efficiently.

Are there any nutrient interactions with caffeine?
The main nutrient interaction with caffeine has to do with calcium and the risk of osteoporosis. In one study of 205 healthy postmenopausal women, caffeine consumption (three cups of coffee per day) was associated with bone loss in women with a calcium intake of less than 800 mg per day. (Harris SS, Dawson-Hughes B. Caffeine and bone loss in healthy postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;60:573-8.) In a group of 980 postmenopausal women, a lifetime of caffeine intake equal to two cups of coffee per day and less than one glass of milk per day was associated with decreased bone density. (Barrett-Connor E, Chang JC, Edelstein SL. Coffee-associated osteoporosis offset by daily milk consumption. The Rancho Bernardo Study. JAMA 1994;271:280-3.) However, in 138 healthy postmenopausal women, long-term dietary caffeine (coffee) intake was not associated with bone density. (Lloyd T, Rollings N, Eggli DF, et al. Dietary caffeine intake and bone status of postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr 1997;65:1826-30.) Postmenopausal women should limit caffeine consumption to under 300 mg/day and consume a total of approximately 1,500 mg of calcium per day. Another study showed that some genetically predisposed women might have an increased risk for osteoporosis that could be offset by increasing vitamin D consumption between 2000 and 4000 iu/day. (Rapuri PB, Gallagher JC, Kinyamu HK, Ryschon KL,. Caffeine Intake Increases the Rate of Bone Loss in Elderly Women and Interacts With Vitamin D Receptor Genotypes. Am J Clin Nutr, 2001;74:694-700.)

Doesn't caffeine make you jittery?
Everyone's body reacts differently to different foods. In most cases, it is not caffeine that makes people "jittery". It is usually the "sugar high" that produces the jittery response. When the sugar wears off, the body experiences a "crash" when energy levels plummet. So, after a sugar high, some people think the solution is another "sugar high" which starts another up-down cycle that can be very unhealthy both short term and long term.

Are there any other benefits to caffeine?
Caffeine is credited with increasing the substance called serotonin in the neural connections (synapses) in the brain. This increase in serotonin is proven to help with increasing concentration and focus, as well as elevating one's mood. Ritalin is a commonly used drug with ADD and ADHD patients and the major component of Ritalin is caffeine. Some people feel that the caffeine is responsible for calming down these patients and increasing the amount of time they dedicate to focus on the topic at hand.

Q: Are XS Energy Drinks safe for children and nursing or pregnant mothers?
Caffeine-free XS Energy Drinks are as safe as any soft drink. We recommend using caffeine & herb-free XS drinks with children because most children already have plenty of energy.

In fact, due to the lack of sugar, XS is recommended by some health professionals as a much better choice for most children than sodas or even juices. Caffeine and herb-free XS is safe for a nursing mother, but should not be consumed large quantities. If she notices that her child has colic after she has been drinking it, she may want to consider discontinuing consumption.

Pregnant women should not consume any herbs, which is why we developed the caffeine & herb-free flavors.

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