Energy Pills

The key ingredient in most energy pills works by stimulating the central nervous system. Caffeine and Ephedra are perhaps the most popular ingredients used in energy boosting supplements. Of course, ever since the FDA banned the sale of products that contain Ephedra, the supplement industry has been on the hunt for a new active ingredient.

A Possible Ephedra Substitute

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) is a coenzyme that is found naturally in the body. NADH molecules are essential for metabolism. Plus they help your body to break up and oxidize foods such as carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) energy.

NADH is then responsible for supplying this energy to the body's cells. Fortunately, most healthy people already have enough NADH in their system. However, for those people who suffer from conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, energy pills that contain NADH can be extremely beneficial.

In addition to being a very effective energy supplement, energy pills have also been shown to have a positive effect on a person's mood. Production of NADH and serotonin, the neurotransmitter in our brain that is responsible for our sense of well-being, both require the same amino acid L-tryptophan. When NADH supplements are taken, L-tryptophan can be devoted to generating more serotonin.

To date, there have been no serious side effects associated with NADH energy pills. Some people have reported that after taking supplements that contain NADH, they've experiencing feelings of nervousness. Another side effect, that may be seen more as a benefit, is the lost of appetite. Another popular Ephedra substitute is synephrine, a derivative of the citrus fruit called "bitter orange."