Kim Kardashian has relaunched energy drinkUpdateas a co-founder, which she says is packed with paraxanthine instead of caffeine. The 45-year-old socialite and businesswoman claims the drink has zero calories, no sugar or artificial flavours. The addition of paraxanthine has sparked curiosity among fans and health experts alike. Marketed as a cleaner, smoother alternative to caffeine, paraxanthine is suddenly trending across social media and Google searches. But what exactly is it, and is it safe?

Paraxanthine is a natural metabolite of caffeine, which is broken down in the liver along with theobromine and theophylline. Caffeine, a nervous system stimulant used globally for energy, is found in coffee and tea and added to energy drinks. Around 70 per cent of caffeine is metabolised into paraxanthine, which is also found in small quantities in green and roasted coffee beans.

Unlike caffeine, which directly stimulates the central nervous system, paraxanthine works in a more targeted way. Researchers say it promotes alertness, focus, and energy without some of the common side effects associated with caffeine, like jitters, rapid heart rate, or post-energy crashes. This is why it is now being marketed as a next-generation caffeine alternative in energy drinks and nootropic beverages.

Paraxanthine is a natural metabolite of caffeine

Even though both compounds influence adenosine receptors in your brain, which helps you regulate sleep and alertness, paraxanthine may also do other things, like:

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According to studies, paraxanthine is generally safe when it is used in controlled doses. Because it is already produced naturally in the body after caffeine consumption, scientists consider it biologically familiar.

However, experts also caution that isolated paraxanthine in supplement or beverage form has not been studied as extensively as caffeine. Regulatory bodies are still evaluating their widespread use in consumer products. For those who are sensitive to stimulants, pregnant, breastfeeding, or have heart conditions, it is best to first consult a doctor before trying new stimulant-based drinks. Doctors also say that since no stimulant is entirely risk-free, it is best to drink it in moderation, as long-term research is still developing.

Zero sugar in energy drinks usually means the addition of sucralose, which has no calories but is around 600 times sweeter than sugar. Even though long-term, it is considered safe for diabetics, emerging research suggests its effects on insulin may not be as benign as once believed.

Experts believe that it does cause issues with your gut and metabolism, especially in teenagers whose metabolic systems are still developing.

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