Does Citicoline Provide Energy?

Energy drink companies all promise the same thing: increased focus and vitality, but what is really the main provider of energy in these drinks? Energy drink manufacturers have revealed citicoline, a stimulant added to popular drinks on the market today, including 5-Hour Energy Shots. The Washington Post reported that citocoline is now being added to more energy drinks and supplements.

One of the latest drinks to come to market, Nawgen (pronounced “noggin”), promises that one can a day can “sharpen your mind.” The site even urges users to track their mental performance using an online memory and focus test.

“It helps with alertness and concentration by providing nutrients the brain needs for alertness,” said Jim von der Hoyt, CEO of Nawgen, which is based in St. Louis, MO.

According to a study on Nawgen’s website, the stimulant citicoline has been proven to increase focus and mental energy, as well as manage symptoms of ADD. However, many experts warn consumers to watch out for such claims. In fact, several studies regarding citicoline, better known as Cognizin, present overwhelming evidence that suggest that the stimulant is no more than a placebo. “If you need energy, you might need more sleep, not a drink,” said Keith Avoob, associate clinical professor of pediatrics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

Ayoob suggests that more research is needed before citocoline should be considered the go-to solution for focus or energy. “One study is never enough to build a drink on or change your entire diet,” he said.

According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition, Americans spent about $9 billion on energy drinks just last year. Drinks containing citocoline make up only a fraction of all energy drink sales. The main provider of “energy” is most likely high levels of caffeine and sugar.

Beverage manufacturers and supplement makers in the U.S. are not required to prove certain health claims. But the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does require companies to ensure their products are safe before going to market. And once on shelves, the agency can review any product for safety.