*** Pros *** Won’t make you fat. Seems cheap, easy, and a potent, magical elixir to give you that “extra boost” whenever you need it. Great in moderation… Seemingly no “crash.” Gives you near-instantaneous boost of energy comparable to doing cocaine - a powerful stimulant - for an extended period of time. However, this is definitely a con as well (very strenuous exertion on your heart, just like the effects of doing any other stimulant have on the body)!

*** Cons *** All the preservatives in 5-Hour Energy are extremely potent carcinogens, meaning they cause cancer if consumed in large amounts. This product also elevates your blood pressure to an almost dangerous degree, meaning it should not be consumed by people with any history of heart problems. I also think that you WILL develop heart problems if you take too much of this product. The caffeine levels are comparable to drinking 12 ounces of espresso coffee (it even says so on the back of the bottle), again, very, very unhealthy. The dangerous levels of B12 and B6 (over 8300% daily intake and 2000% daily intake, respectively), are DANGEROUS and TOXIC (symptoms of excess consumption of B6 include pain and numbness of the extremities, and in severe cases difficulty walking; symptoms of excess consumption of B12 include diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems) unless you drink a LOT of water (since vitamin B is water soluble) to flush out your system.

*** Conclusion *** I would not recommend this product to any of my clients. I’d do it only when I necessarily have to, and then, only in small amounts. It is essentially the same as drinking an espresso coffee drink from Starbucks without the after-effects. Half the bottle should be sufficient to give a huge boost of energy to anyone… doing the whole bottle will F you up (try it for yourself, it’s a crazy little drink). Don’t do too much, I guarantee it will F your body up, and fast. Balance is the key to life, so do everything in moderation and you should be fine. Make your own call.

Sources: Me (Michael McCarty), 21 year-old GA Tech student, ACE certified personal trainer. Add me on Facebook if this article was helpful to you =)! I love meeting new people!