Cameo

A Can of Bull? by Heidemann and Urquhart

Your Task

Research each ingredient found in these energy drinks. This information can be found in biochemistry and nutrition textbooks. Web sources may provide valuable information, but be critical in their use. Many will make unsubstantiated claims. One that can get you started for basic information is http://www.chemindustry.com. Basic information can also be garnered from http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usdahome—click on the “Food and Nutrition” link.

Determine the chemical structure, the type of chemical each is, and the physiological role played by each compound. You should have sufficient information to answer Charley’s list of questions as well as the additional questions listed below. Fill out the table and answer the questions. Please cite any websites that you used in your analysis.

Post Research Analysis

Using the information that your group gathered, place each of the ingredients for your drink under the proper heading in the table below.

Sources of EnergyAmino AcidsStimulants and VitaminsOther—please categorize
    

Questions

  1. When we say that something gives us “energy,” what does that mean? What is a biological definition of energy?
  2. What is the physiological role of each of the molecules in your table?
    1. Which ingredients provide energy? How do they do that?
    2. Which ingredients contribute to body repair, i.e., which help build or rebuild muscle tissue?
  3. In what ways might the one(s) that does (do) not have a metabolic energy source (caffeine) provide the perception of increased energy after consumption?
  4. How are the ingredients in these drinks helpful to someone expending a lot of energy, e.g., a runner?
  5. Does your analysis substantiate the claim that this is an “energy drink”? If so, what molecules are the sources of energy?
  6. Could your drink serve different purposes for different consumers? Explain.
  7. What is the normal physiological response to increased intake of sugars? to increased intake of caffeine?
  8. Is there such a thing as a “sugar high”? Explain your answer.
  9. Evaluate, in terms of basic physiology and biochemistry, the statement: A lack of sleep causes a lack of energy.
  10. Are the product claims legitimate? Why?
  11. Should you simply buy a can of Coke® rather than one of these energy drinks? Why/why not?

Assessment

Individually, or as a group, write an evaluation of the marketing claims for your drink. You may write the evaluation in the form of an article for readers of Runner’s World. Be sure to include answers to the questions above.

Go to “Biochemical Information”

Go back to “The Case”

Originally published at http://www.sciencecases.org/energy_drinks/energy_drinks6.asp

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