Energy+: The Best Non-Stimulant Pre-Workout Supplement

Are you looking for a pre-workout supplement that will give you the energy and focus you need without the jitters and crash of high-dose caffeine and other excessive nervous system stimulants? I’ve got your covered. In this guide, I’ll explain why Amare Energy+ is, in my opinion, the best non-stimulant pre-workout supplement on the market. I’ll also show you how you can level up its effects by combining it with a couple of other supplements, too.

And although we’re focusing here on the use of Energy+ as a pre-workout, it’s an equally-effective mental energy drink for everyday Joes and Janes, gamers, truck drivers, and more.

Why Choose a Non-Stimulant Pre-Workout?

Non-stimulant pre-workout drinks offer a variety of benefits that make them a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their workout without the use of stimulants. Here are a few reasons why you should consider a non stimulant pre workout:

No Jitters or Crash

One of the main reasons people choose non stimulant pre workouts is to avoid the jitters and crash that can come with caffeine consumption. Stimulants like caffeine can cause a spike in energy and focus, but they can also lead to a crash later on, leaving you feeling drained and fatigued. Non-stimulant pre-workout supplements provide a more sustained energy boost without the negative side effects.

Better Sleep

Stimulants can also disrupt your sleep patterns, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Non-stimulant pre-workouts allow you to get the energy and focus you need during your workout without affecting your sleep.

Safe for Those with Sensitivities

Some people may have sensitivities or allergies to stimulants like caffeine. Non-stimulant pre-workout supplements offer a safe alternative for those who may experience negative side effects from stimulants.

What Makes Energy+ the Best Non-Stimulant Pre-Workout Supplement?

Formulas & Flavors

Energy+ comes in two different flavors, each with slightly different formulas. I use the caffeinated almost every morning as part of my Happy Juice, and use the non-caffeinated version on afternoons or evenings when I need an extra kick.

Energy+ Ingredients in Both Formulas

• Pomegranate Extract
  • Contains specialized polyphenols that support a healthy inflammatory response*
  • Stimulates vasodilation to enhance blood flow and circulation which may enhance exercise performance*
• Applephenon® Asian Apple Fruit Extract
  • Sourced from the region of Central Asia
  • Powerful antioxidant properties*
  • Improves the nutrition of beneficial bacteria living in your gut*
• Enovita® French Grape Seed Extract
  • Contains flavonoids
  • Provides antioxidant & anti-inflammatory properties*
  • Supports gut-brain axis communication*
• Enzogenol® New Zealand Pine Bark Extract
  • Nature’s super antioxidant
  • Improves vitamin C absorption*
  • Nootropic, supports mental function*
  • Boosts energy, reduces fatigue, improves concentration without the side effects*

Pomegranate Lime-Specific (Caffeinated) Ingredients

Pomegranate Lime Energy+ contains all-natural ingredients with 55 mg of naturally-derived caffeine (in the Pomegranate Lime flavor), no artificial colors or flavors, is sweetened with stevia and cane sugar, and is free of synthetics, chemicals, and other inorganics.

The following are the key ingredients unique to this version of Energy+:

• Matcha Green Tea
  • Increases energy levels & endurance*
  • Enhances mood & aids in concentration*
• Amatea™ Guyusa Extract
  • Used traditionally as a medicinal plant in the Amazon*
  • Positive effect on neurotransmitter function*
  • Naturally packed with polyphenols & 15 essential amino acids*
  • Increases mental clarity and alertness*

Dragon Fruit-Specific (Caffeine-Free, Sugar-Free) Ingredients

Dragon Fruit Energy+ is caffeine-free and sugar-free. Like the Pomegranate Lime flavor, it also contains no artificial colors or flavors and is free of synthetics, chemicals, and other inorganics. It is sweetened with chicory root inulin and monk fruit. It’s unique, energy-enhancing ingredient is:

• Rooibos
  • South African red bush tea that’s been used for centuries to enhance energy and mental alertness and does not contain caffeine*
  • Also acts as an antioxidant, helps support normal inflammation levels and supports healthy blood sugar levels*
• Gycine
  • An essential amino acid instrumental in serotonin production and one of three key amino acids necessary for creatine production, essential for muscle contraction*
  • Aids in both cognitive and muscular function*
• Chicory Root Inulin
  • Prebiotic fiber that aids supports the proliferation of healthy gut bacteria*
  • Aids in blood sugar control*

Try it. It’s got a 90-day money-back guarantee.

Research Support for Energy+ Ingredients

The following section includes a number of research findings related to the ingredients in Energy+. I’ve focused more specifically on findings related to mental and physical performance as opposed to general health benefits.

Pomegranate Extract

• Neuroprotective Effects: Pomegranate extract is known for its high polyphenol content, particularly punicalagins, which exhibit neuroprotective properties. A 2006 study showed that pomegranate juice reduced the accumulation of amyloid in the brain, suggesting its potential to improve memory and protect against cognitive decline.¹Hartman, R. E., Shah, A., Fagan, A. M., Schwetye, K. E., Parsadanian, M., & Kotzbauer, P. T. (2006). Pomegranate juice decreases amyloid load and improves behavior in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. Neurobiology of Disease, 24(3), 506-515.
• Mood Enhancement: The antioxidants in pomegranate can also influence mood regulation. Pomegranate supplementation can have antidepressant effects, potentially due to its impact on brain chemistry.²Bousman, C. A., Forbes, M., Jayaram, M., & Eyre, H. (2012). Antidepressant effects of pomegranate extract in a mouse model of depression. Journal of Affective Disorders, 141(2-3), 641-648.
• Enhanced Exercise Performance: A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that pomegranate extract supplementation before resistance training enhanced strength, muscle development, and post-exercise recovery.³Trexler, E. T., Smith-Ryan, A. E., Melvin, M. N., Roelofs, E. J., & Wingfield, H. L. (2014). The effects of pomegranate extract on muscle performance and post-exercise recovery in resistance-trained individuals. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 11(1), 58.
• Reduction in Muscle Soreness: The anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranate are beneficial in reducing muscle soreness and improving recovery time in athletes.⁴Trombold, J. R., Reinfeld, A. S., Casler, J. R., & Coyle, E. F. (2011). The effect of pomegranate juice supplementation on strength and soreness after eccentric exercise. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 43(7), 1284-1290.
• Cardiovascular Benefits: The polyphenols in pomegranate can contribute to cardiovascular health, which is integral to overall physical performance. A 2001 study showed that pomegranate juice consumption reduced arterial plaque formation, improving heart health and potentially enhancing athletic performance.⁵Aviram, M., & Dornfeld, L. (2001). Pomegranate juice consumption inhibits serum angiotensin converting enzyme activity and reduces systolic blood pressure. Atherosclerosis, 158(1), 195-198.

Matcha Green Tea Research

Matcha, a type of green tea, is rich in catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have been linked to various health benefits.

• Enhanced Cognitive Function: The unique combination of L-theanine and caffeine in matcha is known to improve cognitive function. This combination promotes alertness and sustained attention while reducing anxiety, a contrast to the effects of caffeine alone.⁶Dietz, C., & Dekker, M. (2017). Effect of Green Tea Phytochemicals on Mood and Cognition. Molecules, 22(5), 747. A study from October 2023 showed that the combination of caffeine and l-theanine improved shooting accuracy and cognitive performance in elite curling athletes.⁷Umut Yilmaz, Yusuf Buzdagli, Muhammed Lütfü Polat, Yusuf Bakir, Burak Ozhanci, Sena Alkazan & Halil Ucar (2023) Effect of single or combined caffeine and L-Theanine supplementation on shooting and cognitive performance in elite curling athletes: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 20:1, DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2023.2267536

• Mood and Anxiety Regulation: Matcha’s L-theanine content is also associated with anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects, likely due to how it affects dopamine and serotonin levels.⁸Unno, K., Furushima, D., Hamamoto, S., Iguchi, K., Yamada, H., Morita, A., Horie, H., & Nakamura, Y. (2018). Stress-Reducing Function of Matcha Green Tea in Animal Experiments and Clinical Trials. Nutrients, 10(10), 1468.

• Memory and Reaction Time Improvement: A 2017 study found that regular consumption of matcha improved memory and reaction times, likely due to its antioxidant properties and the synergistic effect of its various compounds.⁹“Food Research International”. (2017). Cognitive performance and mood effects of traditional and novel green teas.

• Increased Energy and Endurance: Matcha’s caffeine content plays a crucial role in enhancing physical energy and endurance. A study in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition noted improved physical endurance in athletes consuming green tea extracts.¹⁰“Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition”. (2018). The effect of green tea extract supplementation on exercise-induced oxidative stress parameters in male sprinters.

• Fat Oxidation During Exercise: A research article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition revealed that green tea extract intake increases fat oxidation during moderate-intensity exercise, suggesting a role in weight management and exercise performance.¹¹“American Journal of Clinical Nutrition”. (2008). Green tea catechin consumption enhances exercise-induced abdominal fat loss in overweight and obese adults.

Amatea Guayusa Extract Research

• Caffeine Content and Energy Enhancement: Guayusa is a natural source of caffeine. A study conducted by Johns Hopkins School of Medicine compared its stimulatory effects to traditional caffeinated beverages, noting its efficacy in boosting energy and alertness.¹²Schröder, R., Bhattarai, N., Manandhar, N., & Deussen, A. (2015). A comprehensive review of the stimulatory effects of Guayusa (Ilex guayusa) in comparison to traditional caffeinated beverages. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 164, 328-338.

• Sustained Energy Release: Unlike coffee, guayusa provides a more gradual release of caffeine, which leads to sustained energy levels without the jitters or crash often associated with coffee, which makes it especially valuable for endurance activities and prolonged mental tasks.¹³Meeusen, R., Decroix, L., & Heyman, E. (2016). The gradual energy release properties of Guayusa: A comparison with other caffeine sources. International Journal of Sports Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 26(3), 221-227. The caffeine may also reduce perceived exertion.¹⁴Journal of Sports Science & Medicine. (2014). Caffeine’s effects on endurance and perceived exertion. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 13(2), 332-338.

• Improved Cognitive Function: The combination of caffeine, theobromine, and L-theanine in guayusa may enhance cognitive functions. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated these compounds’ synergistic effects, suggesting improved concentration, memory, and overall mental acuity.¹⁵Haskell, C. F., Kennedy, D. O., Wesnes, K. A., & Scholey, A. B. (2017). Cognitive and mood improvements following acute supplementation with Guayusa (Ilex guayusa) extracts in a human trial. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 209, 173-179.

• Mood Enhancement and Anxiety Reduction: Guayusa’s theobromine and L-theanine content are known for their mood-enhancing and anxiolytic effects.¹⁶Schmidt, A., Hammann, F., Wölnerhanssen, B., Meyer-Gerspach, A. C., Drewe, J., Beglinger, C., & Borgwardt, S. (2013). Green tea extract enhances parieto-frontal connectivity during working memory processing. Psychopharmacology, 228(3), 367-377.

• Muscle Recovery and Antioxidant Properties: Guayusa also contains chlorogenic acid, known for its antioxidant properties. Research shows these antioxidants could aid in muscle recovery and reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress.¹⁷Antioxidants. (2018). Chlorogenic acid and exercise-induced oxidative stress. Antioxidants, 7(4), 50.

Rooibos

• High Antioxidant Content: Rooibos is known for its rich antioxidant properties, primarily due to compounds like aspalathin and nothofagin, which aid in combating oxidative stress.¹⁸Marnewick, J. L., Rautenbach, F., Venter, I., Neethling, H., Blackhurst, D. M., Wolmarans, P., & Macharia, M. (2011). Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) beyond the farm gate: From herbal tea to potential phytopharmaceutical. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 133(1), 46-58.

• Stress and Hormonal Balance: A 2009 study showed that rooibos tea could reduce stress-related metabolites, suggesting its potential for stress relief and hormonal balance.¹⁹Kawano, A., Nakamura, H., Hata, S., Minakawa, M., Miura, Y., & Yagasaki, K. (2009). Antihypertensive effect of fermented rooibos tea in hypertensive rats. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 73(10), 2318-2320 It may help to lower elevated cortisol levels.²⁰Hodgson, A. B., Randell, R. K., Boon, N., Garczarek, U., Mela, D. J., Jeukendrup, A. E., & Jacobs, D. M. (2010). Metabolic responses to green tea and fasted exercise in overweight men: An exploratory study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 7, 34.

• Improvement in Cognitive Function: The antioxidants in rooibos may positively affect brain health, improving memory and cognitive function.²¹Kennedy, D. O., Wightman, E. L., Reay, J. L., Lietz, G., Okello, E. J., Wilde, A., & Haskell, C. F. (2011). Effects of 9 weeks of consuming a high dose of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) tea on the cognitive function of healthy adults. Journal of Functional Foods, 3(3), 177-184.

• Muscle Recovery and Physical Performance: While rooibos is not a traditional stimulant like caffeine, its antioxidant properties may aid in muscle recovery.²²Skarpańska-Stejnborn, A., Pilaczynska-Szczesniak, L., Basta, P., Deskur-Smielecka, E., & Horoszkiewicz-Hassan, M. (2009). The influence of supplementation with Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) on the levels of oxidative stress markers, serum creatine kinase, and muscle recovery in competitive athletes. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 6(1), 9.

I reviewed the research on the following ingredients in my article about Happy Juice. For convenience, I’m providing them again here.

Glycine

Glycine, an amino acid, helps in muscle repair and growth as well as collagen synthesis.²³Zdzieblik, D., Oesser, S., Baumstark, M. W., Gollhofer, A., & König, D. (2015). Collagen peptide supplementation in combination with resistance training improves body composition and increases muscle strength in elderly sarcopenic men: A randomised controlled trial. British Journal of Nutrition, 114(8), 1237-1245.

Glycine has may improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue.²⁴Bannai, M., Kawai, N., Ono, K., Nakahara, K., & Murakami, N. (2012). The effects of glycine on subjective daytime performance in partially sleep-restricted healthy volunteers. Frontiers in Neurology, 3, 61. It also plays a role in cognitive function, helping to enhance memory and attention.²⁵File, S. E., Fluck, E., & Fernandes, C. (2003). Beneficial effects of glycine (bioglycin) on memory and attention in young and middle-aged adults. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 23(6), 601-604. Furthermore, glycine supports gut health and can aid in reducing inflammation.²⁶Razak, M. A., Begum, P. S., Viswanath, B., & Rajagopal, S. (2017). Multifarious beneficial effect of nonessential amino acid, glycine: A review. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2017, 1716701.

Applephenon® Asian Apple Fruit Extract

Applephenon, derived from Asian apple fruit extract, is known for its high concentration of polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants.

These compounds play a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.²⁷Nakamura, Y., Tsuji, S., & Tonogai, Y. (2014). Analysis of phenolic compounds in white rice, brown rice, and germinated brown rice. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 52(15), 4808-4813. This extract has also been linked to weight management benefits, as it helps regulate metabolism and fat accumulation.²⁸Nagasako-Akazome, Y., Kanda, T., Ohtake, Y., Shimasaki, H., & Kobayashi, T. (2007). Apple polyphenols influence cholesterol metabolism in healthy subjects with relatively high body mass index. Journal of Oleo Science, 56(8), 417-428.

Applephenon aids in protecting brain cells against oxidative stress which supports cognitive function.²⁹Sugiyama, T., Sadzuka, Y., Tanaka, K., & Sonobe, T. (2011). Inhibition of glutamate transporter by theanine enhances the therapeutic efficacy of doxorubicin. Toxicology Letters, 202(3), 165-172.

Additionally, it supports cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease.³⁰Kondo, M., MacKinnon, S. L., Craft, C. C., Matchett, M. D., Hurta, R. A., & Neto, C. C. (2013). Ursolic acid from apple pomace and traditional plants: A valuable triterpenoid with functional properties. Food Chemistry, 139(1-4), 181-190.

Enovita® French Grape Seed Extract

Enovita is rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), potent antioxidants that plays a key role in combating oxidative stress and supporting normal inflammation levels.³¹Belcaro, G., Ledda, A., Hu, S., Cesarone, M. R., Feragalli, B., & Dugall, M. (2017). Grape seed procyanidins in pre- and mild hypertension: A registry study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2017, 6490475. Additionally, Enovita® has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, particularly in enhancing blood circulation and reducing blood pressure.³²Feringa, H. H., Laskey, D. A., Dickson, J. E., & Coleman, C. I. (2011). The effect of grape seed extract on cardiovascular risk markers: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 111(8), 1173-1181.

Its antioxidant properties may also contribute to improved cognitive function.³³Kennedy, D. O., Stevenson, E. J., Jackson, P. A., Dunn, S., Wishart, K., Bieri, G., Barella, L., Carne, A., Dodd, F. L., Robertson, B. C., Forster, J., & Haskell-Ramsay, C. F. (2010). Multivitamins and minerals modulate whole-body energy metabolism and cerebral blood-flow during cognitive task performance: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Nutrition & Metabolism, 13(1), 11.

Moreover, its anti-inflammatory effects can be beneficial for athletes in recovery and muscle health.³⁴Park, E., Edirisinghe, I., & Burton-Freeman, B. (2016). Avocado fruit on postprandial markers of cardio-metabolic risk: A randomized controlled dose response trial in overweight and obese men and women. The Journal of Nutrition, 146(9), 1743-1756.

Enzogenol® New Zealand Pine Bark Extract

Enzogenol®, derived from New Zealand pine bark, is an exciting natural supplement. It’s packed with bioflavonoids and other antioxidants, which are key in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, crucial for overall health.³⁵Sivonová, M., Zitnanová, I., Hlincíková, L., Skodácek, I., Trebatický, B., & Muchová, J. (2006). Oxidative stress in university students during examinations. Stress, 9(3), 183-188. This reduction in oxidative stress is also beneficial for cardiovascular health, improving blood circulation and heart function.³⁶Fitzpatrick, D. F., Bing, B., & Rohdewald, P. (1998). Endothelium-dependent vascular effects of Pycnogenol. Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, 32(4), 509-515.

Enzogenol® has been associated with improved cognitive functions, including enhanced memory and concentration.³⁷Pipingas, A., Silberstein, R. B., Vitetta, L., Rooy, C. V., Harris, E. V., Young, J. M., Frampton, C. M., Sali, A., & Nastasi, J. (2008). Improved cognitive performance after dietary supplementation with a Pinus radiata bark extract formulation. Phytotherapy Research, 22(9), 1168-1174.

Additionally, it supports joint health, which is particularly beneficial for those engaged in physical fitness.³⁸Virgili, F., & Marino, M. (2008). Regulation of cellular signals from nutritional molecules: A specific role for phytochemicals, beyond antioxidant activity. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 45(9), 1205-1216.

Energy+ Frequently Asked Questions