Functional Drinks

Today, people are more careful in selecting their food and beverages, prioritizing the benefits for the body and the absence of harmful components. For those who follow a healthy lifestyle, functional drinks have emerged, containing organic and natural substances, necessary micronutrients, and vitamins.

The New Era of Functional Drinks

In Russia, functional drinks have been known since the 1990s and were mainly represented by three brands: Akva-minerale, BonAqua, and Vitamin Water. Now, a new range of functional drinks has appeared, containing amino acids essential for the body. There are more than 150 varieties of these drinks, with 22 of them participating in the construction of protein molecules. Out of these, 9 components are essential and can only be obtained from food, water, or dietary supplements.

Amino acids have specific concentrations and ratios, and any imbalance negatively affects protein synthesis. They dissolve quickly in water and are easily absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract without requiring significant energy expenditure. As a result, functional drinks are unique and exhibit excellent biological activity. Interestingly, short peptides, consisting of 2-4 amino acids, share a similar capability. When they enter the gastrointestinal tract, they are immediately delivered into the bloodstream. Examples of such peptides include the IPH peptide complexes from the German company Ideal Pharma Peptide. Structurally, they resemble proteins and play a role in the body’s recovery and toxin elimination.

Energy drinks were previously in high demand but now face criticism. In contrast, consumers are opting for mineral and non-carbonated water, considering it a natural product and shunning cheap soft drinks.

The most effective amino acids in these new functional drinks are taurine and arginine. They have long been used in medicine, acting at the cellular level and applied in various diseases and adverse conditions. Adding these amino acids to functional water increases its benefits for the body.

Arginine

Arginine (chemical formula: C6H14N402) is one of the main metabolites involved in the ornithine cycle. It exists both in a free form and as part of proteins, especially in histones and protamines. During biosynthesis from citrulline, this amino acid transports nitrogen in enzymes responsible for arterial vessel relaxation.

A deficiency of arginine can lead to an increase in diastolic blood pressure. This component removes protein waste products from the body. In humans, the ornithine cycle occurs in the liver and consists of three stages. Initially, ornithine is converted into citrulline, which is then converted into arginine. Arginine is further broken down into the starting material and urea.

L-arginine:

• Is essential for muscles (increases muscle mass).
• Reduces fat deposits during physical exertion.
• Increases endurance.
• Activates cellular metabolism.
• Stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland.
• Regulates glucose levels.
• Reduces acidosis.
• Prevents changes in the metabolism of mediator amino acids.
• Has a positive impact on the central nervous system.
• Mitigates stress.

Arginine is rapidly distributed to all tissues and organs, is almost completely consumed during metabolism, and the remnants of the component are excreted by the kidneys. This amino acid is crucial and effective for immunity and in the field of cardiology, preventing blood clots, heart attacks, strokes, and aiding in weight loss.

Taurine

Taurine (chemical formula: C2H7NO3S) is an aminoethanesulfonic acid that readily dissolves in water and remains in its original form in almost all organic solvents. It enters the body through food and can be synthesized in small amounts in the liver. Taurine is produced as a result of the three stages of cysteine metabolism.

Taurine:

• Is crucial for lipid metabolism.
• Is necessary for cell membranes.
• Is required for energy processes and metabolism.
• Maintains electrolytes in the cytoplasm.
• Is necessary for emulsifying fats.
• Serves as a neurotransmitter for the brain.
• Exhibits cardiotonic and anticonvulsant effects.
• Is beneficial for eye conditions.

Taurine is quickly delivered to tissues and organs, is almost entirely consumed during metabolism, and the remnants are excreted by the kidneys. It acts as a diuretic but is not toxic to cells. Taurine helps treat hypertension, edema, strengthens heart muscles, prevents thrombosis, and improves energy processes.

In type 2 diabetes, it can increase insulin sensitivity. This amino acid is found in many dietary supplements, pharmaceutical drugs, sports supplements, and vitamin-mineral complexes, as well as cosmetic products.