Looking for an energy boost without excessive caffeine and sugar? FRS is an energy drink containing 325 milligrams (mg) of the antioxidant quercetin, which is found in the skins of blueberries, grapes and red apples. The initials FRS stand for free radical scavenger, according to the company's website, symbolizing the product's antioxidant capabilities. Consume FRS in the form of a single-serving can, soft chews, liquid concentrate or powdered drink mix.
Ingredients
In addition to quercetin, a 11.5-ounce can of FRS contains 85 mg of green tea extract and 156 mg of vitamin C. The citrus pomegranate flavor has 25 calories and its label lists water, white grape and orange juice concentrates, tartaric acid, sucralose, caffeine and natural blueberry pomegranate flavor as its ingredients. Other vitamins and nutrients in FRS drinks include thiamin, riboflavin, vitamins B-6 and B-12, and 7 grams of carbohydrates.
Quercetin
According to FRS, the amount of quercetin in an 11.5-ounce can is equivalent to consuming 40 apples and triggers the body's ability to produce more real energy. The American Cancer Society (ACS) describes quercetin as a plant-based chemical known as a flavonoid that seems to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Proponents of quercetin are optimistic about the substance's potential to fight cancer and prevent heart attacks and strokes by stabilizing small blood vessels. Quercetin is found in the rinds and barks of many plants, herbs and berries, according to ACS.
Frequency
Up to three daily servings of FRS are recommended to maintain energy levels as needed. Try using one in the morning, one in the afternoon and another 30 minutes before a workout. FRS predicts an increase in energy and alertness within 30 minutes of drinking or eating one of their products, based on feedback from consumers.
Caffeine
Caffeine is an active ingredient in FRS, with 48 mg present in one 11.5-ounce can. FRS's powdered drink mix and concentrates contain 35 mg of caffeine per serving, and two soft chews have 20 mg. Other energy drinks contain between 74 and 280 mg of caffeine per serving in serving sizes ranging from 8 to 16 ounces, according to the Mayo Clinic. FRS includes caffeine as a metabolic enhancer so that nutrients will be absorbed more easily.
History of FRS
A team of scientists, including Dr. Mitsunori Ono, Ph.D., originally developed FRS as a health drink to fight fatigue. During the next phase of development, Dr. Ono worked with Dr. Lan Bo Chen at Harvard University to test and refine the formula now known as FRS Healthy Energy, which has been available since 2004.
