(health)Review: Natural Vitality Energy28

Like I said I would, I'm reviewing Natural Vitality's Energy28 supplement that came in this month's Conscious Box. Unfortunately, I tried it while I was at the gym, so I didn't get a chance to take a picture of it. All of the nutritional information is here at their website, so if this interests you, go check it out!

First of all, this is a non-caffeine-based energy supplement. I know some of you out there are immediately scoffing at the idea of getting energy from anything but caffeine and sugar, but trust me, this stuff works! It contains maca, which is being touted nowadays as a vegan superfood and energy-giver, due to its abundance of B vitamins and its positive effects on hormone balance. It even purportedly increases libido and sexual function in men... ladies.

*eyebrow raise*

All joking aside, maca also contains essential minerals such as calcium and potassium, along with amino acids.

Energy28 also contains D-Ribose, which is used by the body in metabolic pathways and is the R in RNA. According to NV, D-Ribose is used up in metabolism faster than it can be produced, so supplementing D-Ribose should theoretically boost stamina and endurance.

The other two ingredients, golden chlorella and rhodiola, are plant based and provide energy through essential minerals and vitamins, as well as Omega-3-6-9 oils from the chlorella.

"But girl," you might say, "what about the taste? Does it even work?"

I'm already 20% cooler than the original Hasbro toy!

I'm getting to that, Rainbow Dash. The taste isn't exactly cupcakes and candy, but it's... fine. It's a little tart and acidic, so be careful not to hit the back of your throat when you're taking it. Since you only have to take a bit of it, you can get away with downing a spoonful without dealing with a huge can of foul-tasting energy drink. It's also nowhere near as bad as NV's liquid vitamin supplement, which is similar, with a added hit of vitamin bottle funk and a slight bitterness.

As for effectiveness, yes, it does work! I was feeling pretty blobby up until my workout time, and one shot of this really perked me up. It doesn't make you jittery and hyper like caffeine does, instead providing a stream of energy that lasts as long as you need it to.

So next time you're at the gym or at the races, if you can get over your caffeine addiction and the taste, try a shot of this and see how you do!

I'm on it!