Best for Energy
Compounds that boost physical and mental energy
178 compounds studied for this goal
Creatine Monohydrate
SupplementCreatine monohydrate demonstrates strong, consistent evidence for improving energy-dependent exercise performance, particularly high-intensity, short-duration activities. Multiple well-designed human RCTs show clinically meaningful improvements in power output, strength, and repeated-sprint performance.
GLP-1
PeptideGLP-1 receptor agonists demonstrably increase energy expenditure and improve mitochondrial function in both humans and animals, with consistent effects on metabolic rate and ATP production. Multiple human RCTs and observational studies confirm clinically meaningful improvements in energy metabolism, though effects on resting energy expenditure are modest and weight loss is primarily driven by appetite suppression rather than increased energy expenditure.
Iron
SupplementIron supplementation demonstrates strong evidence for improving energy-related outcomes in iron-deficient individuals, particularly for reducing fatigue and improving exercise capacity. Multiple human RCTs and meta-analyses show consistent, clinically meaningful improvements, though efficacy is most pronounced in those with documented iron deficiency.
Beta-Alanine
Amino AcidBeta-alanine demonstrates strong evidence for improving high-intensity exercise performance lasting 1-10 minutes through increased muscle carnosine buffering. Multiple well-designed human RCTs and meta-analyses consistently show clinically meaningful improvements in time-to-exhaustion, power output, and repeated-bout performance, though effects on maximal strength and aerobic capacity remain inconsistent.
Ashwagandha
SupplementAshwagandha shows probable efficacy for energy and mental fatigue in humans based on multiple RCTs, but evidence is limited by small-to-moderate sample sizes, short study durations, and inconsistent outcome measures across trials. Results suggest real benefits for cognitive function and fatigue reduction, but the evidence base is not yet conclusive.
SS-31
PeptideSS-31 (elamipretide) demonstrates probable efficacy for energy-related outcomes in humans, with mixed but encouraging results from clinical trials showing improvements in exercise capacity and fatigue in specific patient populations. However, evidence remains inconsistent across different disease types and has not yet achieved the standard of high-confidence proof.
ARA-290
PeptideARA-290 shows probable efficacy for fatigue and energy-related symptoms in sarcoidosis patients with small fiber neuropathy, demonstrated in 3 human RCTs with modest sample sizes and short durations. Evidence is moderate but not conclusive due to small cohorts and lack of independent replication in healthy populations or other disease contexts.
Ibutamoren
PeptideIbutamoren (MK-677) increases energy expenditure and fat-free mass in humans, but evidence is limited to 2 small RCTs with modest sample sizes and short durations. Efficacy for sustained energy improvement is probable but not conclusively proven.
Cortexin
PeptideCortexin shows probable efficacy for energy and fatigue in humans, supported by multiple observational studies and one RCT demonstrating improvements in fatigue scales and cognitive function in post-COVID and chronic fatigue contexts. However, evidence is limited to small-to-moderate sample sizes without independent replication, and the single RCT lacked adequate blinding details.
Magnesium
SupplementMagnesium supplementation shows mixed evidence for energy-related outcomes in humans. While some RCTs report improvements in fatigue perception and exercise recovery, others show detrimental or negligible effects on objective performance measures. Clinical significance remains unclear.
Vitamin D3
SupplementVitamin D3 supplementation shows probable efficacy for improving energy and reducing fatigue in deficient individuals, supported by multiple human RCTs and meta-analyses, but evidence is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous populations, and inconsistent dosing protocols across studies.
Zinc
SupplementZinc supplementation shows probable efficacy for reducing fatigue in elderly populations and cancer patients, with consistent results across 2-3 human RCTs. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous study designs, and lack of independent replication in diverse populations.
Curcumin
SupplementCurcumin shows probable but not conclusive efficacy for energy-related outcomes, with most positive evidence coming from exercise recovery and fatigue reduction in small human trials. Results are inconsistent across studies and lack independent replication at scale.
Quercetin
SupplementQuercetin shows moderate evidence for improving energy and exercise performance in humans, with consistent benefits for fatigue reduction and endurance capacity in some studies. However, findings are mixed across RCTs, with several high-quality studies showing null or negative results, limiting confidence in its efficacy.
Resveratrol
SupplementResveratrol shows probable efficacy for energy metabolism in humans, with multiple RCTs demonstrating improvements in mitochondrial function and metabolic markers. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, inconsistent effects on exercise performance, and mixed results on direct energy/fatigue outcomes.
NMN
SupplementNMN demonstrates probable efficacy for energy-related outcomes in humans, with multiple RCTs showing improvements in physical performance, aerobic capacity, and fatigue reduction. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short intervention periods, and lack of independent replication across research groups.
Collagen Peptides
SupplementCollagen peptides show probable benefits for energy-related outcomes including reduced fatigue perception, improved post-exercise recovery, and enhanced endurance capacity in humans. However, evidence remains limited to small-to-moderate RCTs without consistent replication across independent research groups.
Probiotics
SupplementProbiotics show probable benefits for energy and fatigue in athletes and certain disease populations, but efficacy is not conclusively proven. Multiple human RCTs demonstrate modest improvements in aerobic performance, fatigue severity, and exercise recovery, though results are inconsistent and effect sizes are generally small.
Melatonin
SupplementMelatonin shows moderate evidence for improving energy and fatigue in specific populations (cancer-related fatigue, multiple sclerosis, post-exercise recovery), with consistent positive findings across several human studies. However, effects are modest and evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short treatment durations, and lack of independent replication in most contexts.
Tongkat Ali
SupplementTongkat Ali shows probable efficacy for improving energy and fatigue in humans based on 4 RCTs, but evidence is limited by small sample sizes (n=63–150), short durations (4–24 weeks), and reliance on subjective mood/quality-of-life scales rather than objective measures of physical energy.
Rhodiola Rosea
SupplementRhodiola rosea shows probable efficacy for improving energy and reducing fatigue in humans, supported by multiple RCTs and meta-analyses, but evidence is limited by small sample sizes, inconsistent effect measures across studies, and mixed results across different fatigue types.
Spirulina
SupplementSpirulina demonstrates probable efficacy for improving exercise performance and energy metabolism in humans, supported by multiple small-to-moderate RCTs showing consistent improvements in oxygen utilization, time to fatigue, and antioxidant status. However, evidence remains limited by small sample sizes and inconsistent mechanistic findings.
Fenugreek
SupplementFenugreek shows probable but not conclusive benefit for energy-related outcomes, primarily through testosterone elevation and fatigue reduction demonstrated in a small number of human RCTs and animal studies. Evidence is limited by small sample sizes and heterogeneous endpoints.
Vitamin B Complex
SupplementVitamin B Complex shows probable efficacy for energy and fatigue reduction in humans, supported by 4 RCTs and multiple observational studies demonstrating improvements in exercise performance, fatigue markers, and metabolic pathways. However, evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and inconsistent effect reporting across studies.
Urolithin A
SupplementUrolithin A demonstrates probable efficacy for energy-related outcomes through mitochondrial enhancement and mitophagy activation in humans, with multiple RCTs showing improvements in muscle strength and endurance, but sample sizes remain modest and long-term durability data is limited.
Astaxanthin
SupplementAstaxanthin demonstrates probable efficacy for enhancing aerobic exercise performance and fat oxidation, supported by multiple human RCTs showing consistent modest improvements in endurance capacity. However, evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, short supplementation periods, and mixed results on some mechanistic outcomes.
Glutathione
SupplementGlutathione supplementation shows probable benefits for exercise-related energy metabolism and fatigue in humans, with evidence from multiple RCTs demonstrating improved aerobic metabolism and muscle function. However, efficacy is not conclusively proven across all energy-related measures, and most studies use small sample sizes.
Shilajit
SupplementShilajit shows probable efficacy for energy and fatigue in humans based on 2 RCTs, but evidence is limited by small sample sizes, inconsistent effect reporting, and lack of independent replication. Animal studies support a plausible mechanism via mitochondrial enhancement and HPA axis modulation.
Colostrum
SupplementBovine colostrum shows probable but not conclusive efficacy for exercise performance and recovery in humans. Multiple RCTs demonstrate modest improvements in specific performance metrics and immune markers, but effects are inconsistent across studies and often small in magnitude.
Epicatechin
SupplementEpicatechin demonstrates probable efficacy for enhancing energy-related outcomes through mitochondrial biogenesis and improved ATP production, primarily demonstrated in animal and limited human studies. Efficacy in humans is plausible but not conclusively proven due to small sample sizes and limited RCT evidence.
Pomegranate Extract
SupplementPomegranate extract shows probable efficacy for energy-related outcomes, including fatigue reduction and exercise performance enhancement in humans, supported by multiple small RCTs and mechanistic studies. However, evidence remains limited by small sample sizes and short trial durations, preventing a higher tier classification.
Cistanche
SupplementCistanche shows probable efficacy for energy and fatigue in humans based on 2 RCTs, with consistent mechanistic support from animal studies. However, evidence is limited by small human sample sizes and lack of independent replication.
Schisandra
SupplementSchisandra chinensis shows probable efficacy for energy and fatigue in humans, supported by 3 small RCTs demonstrating reduced fatigue markers and improved physical performance, but evidence is limited by small sample sizes and lack of independent replication.
Methylene Blue
SupplementMethylene blue shows probable efficacy for enhancing brain energy metabolism and cognitive function through mitochondrial respiration improvement, supported by multiple human studies and consistent animal evidence. However, efficacy is not conclusively proven due to small human sample sizes, heterogeneous outcome measures, and limited independent replication.
Whey Protein
SupplementWhey protein supplementation combined with resistance training shows modest benefits for muscle strength and lean mass in older adults and post-hospitalization recovery, but efficacy is inconsistent and often not superior to training alone, particularly in well-nourished populations consuming adequate baseline protein.
Astragalus
SupplementAstragalus shows probable efficacy for energy and fatigue reduction, particularly in cancer-related and post-stroke fatigue, supported by multiple human RCTs and meta-analyses. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, inconsistent study quality, and lack of independent replication in diverse populations.
Forskolin
SupplementForskolin shows probable efficacy for energy and metabolic health based on 3 human RCTs, but evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and lack of independent replication. Most human studies involved multi-ingredient formulas, making it difficult to isolate forskolin's independent contribution.
Panax Ginseng
NootropicPanax ginseng shows probable efficacy for improving energy and reducing fatigue in humans, supported by multiple clinical trials and meta-analyses. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and inconsistent dosing protocols across trials.
PQQ
NootropicPQQ shows probable benefits for energy and mitochondrial function based on 3 human RCTs and multiple animal studies, but evidence remains limited by small sample sizes (n<65), short intervention periods (6-12 weeks), and lack of independent replication. Efficacy in humans is suggested but not conclusively proven.
L-Citrulline
Amino AcidL-Citrulline demonstrates probable but inconsistent benefits for exercise performance and energy metabolism in humans. Multiple RCTs show modest improvements in specific performance metrics (repetitions to failure, anaerobic power, O2 uptake kinetics), but effect sizes are small and results are not uniformly replicated across studies.
HMB
Amino AcidHMB supplementation shows probable efficacy for improving physical performance and functional capacity in specific populations (older adults, athletes during weight loss, post-surgery patients), but evidence is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous outcomes, and few independent replications. Mixed results in resistance-trained individuals suggest efficacy may depend on population characteristics.
BCAAs
Amino AcidBCAAs show probable efficacy for improving exercise performance, reducing fatigue, and enhancing substrate metabolism in active individuals, based on multiple human RCTs with consistent positive results. However, evidence is limited by small sample sizes, heterogeneous study designs, and mixed results in certain populations (e.g., no benefit in cirrhosis or COPD rehabilitation).
Arginine
Amino AcidL-Arginine shows probable efficacy for improving exercise capacity and energy-related performance in specific populations, supported by multiple human RCTs and consistent animal data. However, effects are modest, inconsistently replicated across all athletic contexts, and efficacy appears population-dependent.
Tryptophan
Amino AcidL-tryptophan supplementation shows probable efficacy for improving exercise performance and reducing fatigue perception in humans, based on 3 RCTs with modest sample sizes and consistent directional effects. Evidence demonstrates effects on serotonin pathways and fatigue tolerance, but results have not been independently replicated across large, diverse populations.
Ornithine
Amino AcidL-ornithine shows probable efficacy for reducing fatigue and stress-related symptoms in healthy humans, with consistent positive results across multiple small RCTs. However, evidence remains limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and lack of independent replication by different research groups.
TB-500
PeptideTB-500 shows promise for energy-related outcomes in preclinical studies, but human evidence is extremely limited. One small pilot study suggests potential benefits for exercise capacity, but efficacy is not proven in humans.
GHK-Cu
PeptideGHK-Cu shows plausible antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models and one small human observational study, but efficacy for energy is not directly demonstrated. No human RCTs exist to prove clinical benefit for energy production or fatigue reduction.
Epithalon
PeptideEpithalon shows consistent antioxidant and mitochondrial-protective effects in animal and cellular models, with some evidence of improved exercise capacity in aging rodents. However, no human clinical trials exist to demonstrate efficacy for energy in people.
DSIP
PeptideDSIP shows consistent antioxidant and mitochondrial protective effects in animal models under stress conditions, but no human trials exist to demonstrate efficacy for energy production or fatigue in humans. All evidence is derived from rodent studies.
Thymosin Alpha-1
PeptideThymosin Alpha-1 has not been proven to enhance energy in humans. While observational studies show it may reduce fatigue as a secondary symptom in COVID-19 pneumonia, there are no RCTs specifically investigating energy or fatigue as a primary outcome, and no human efficacy data directly supporting an energy-boosting claim.
MOTS-c
PeptideMOTS-c shows promise for improving energy metabolism and mitochondrial function based on animal studies and mechanistic research, but lacks human randomized controlled trials demonstrating clinical efficacy for energy production or exercise performance.
AOD-9604
PeptideAOD-9604 shows plausible effects on energy expenditure and fat oxidation in animal models, but no human efficacy data exists. Evidence is limited to one animal study and one review mentioning the compound.
Sermorelin
PeptideSermorelin (a GHRH analog) has not been studied for energy as a primary outcome in humans. One human RCT examined metabolic effects over 5 months but did not report energy or fatigue as measured outcomes. Evidence for energy benefits remains theoretical and based on GH/IGF-1 axis stimulation rather than direct human proof.
Kisspeptin
PeptideKisspeptin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that regulates the reproductive axis and metabolic homeostasis, but no human RCTs demonstrate efficacy for increasing energy levels. All evidence is mechanistic or from animal studies.
GHRP-2
PeptideGHRP-2 stimulates growth hormone release in humans and animals through a direct pituitary mechanism independent of GHRH, but no human studies demonstrate that this translates to improved energy, fatigue, or exercise capacity. Evidence is limited to mechanistic studies and small observational cases.
GHRP-6
PeptideGHRP-6 shows cardioprotective effects and enhances myocyte metabolism in animal models, but there is no human evidence for energy improvement. The compound appears to work through growth hormone secretion and metabolic pathway activation, but efficacy for 'energy' as a health goal remains unproven in humans.
Hexarelin
PeptideHexarelin shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism through mitochondrial biogenesis and metabolic pathway activation in animal and cell studies, but no human trials have directly tested energy or fatigue outcomes. Efficacy in humans remains unproven.
Melanotan 2
PeptideMelanotan II (MT-II) consistently activates melanocortin-4 receptors in animal models and increases energy expenditure through sympathetic nervous system activation, but human efficacy for energy is based on a single small pilot study (n=3) showing adverse effects rather than energy benefits.
Humanin
PeptideHumanin shows promise for energy metabolism and mitochondrial function through mechanistic studies and animal models, but lacks rigorous human RCT evidence demonstrating efficacy for energy production or athletic performance.
GDF-11
PeptideGDF11 shows consistent mechanistic promise for enhancing mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in animal and cell studies, but there are no human RCTs demonstrating efficacy for energy production or fatigue reduction. One observational study in COPD patients found associations between GDF11 levels and exercise capacity, but causality is not established.
FOXO4-DRI
PeptideFOXO4-DRI is an animal-studied peptide with no human trials demonstrating efficacy for energy. One animal study shows it can restore testosterone levels in aged mice by eliminating senescent Leydig cells, which could theoretically support energy, but direct energy outcomes were not measured.
VIP
PeptideVIP shows mechanistic plausibility for supporting energy metabolism through glycogen metabolism and mitochondrial function in astrocytes, but direct human evidence for improved energy or fatigue is absent. Only 2 small human observational studies exist, neither demonstrating VIP supplementation efficacy.
Thymalin
PeptideThymalin has been studied in only one small human observational trial for energy-related outcomes (specifically thyroid function in toxic goiter), showing potential benefit when combined with other drugs, but efficacy for energy is not directly demonstrated and evidence quality is low.
Pinealon
PeptidePinealon shows antihypoxic and cellular protective properties in animal and in-vitro models, but no human efficacy data exists for the energy goal. The mechanism suggests indirect antioxidant effects and neuroprotection, but clinical translation to energy improvement is unproven.
Vilon
PeptideVilon shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy and cellular function through mitochondrial optimization and antioxidant regulation, but efficacy is not proven in humans. Evidence is limited to in-vitro and animal studies with no human trials.
Cerebrolysin
PeptideCerebrolysin shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and mitochondrial function across multiple animal and a few human studies, but efficacy for 'energy' as a health goal remains unproven in humans with direct measurement of energy/fatigue outcomes.
MGF
PeptideMGF shows plausible mechanisms for supporting muscle energy metabolism and function in animal and limited human studies, but efficacy for the specific goal of 'energy' is not proven in humans. Evidence comes primarily from animal models and mechanistic studies in disease contexts rather than healthy populations seeking energy improvement.
Omega-3
SupplementOmega-3 supplementation shows plausible mechanisms for enhancing energy metabolism and mitochondrial function, but human evidence for improving 'energy' as a health goal is limited and mixed. Most supporting data comes from animal studies or mechanistic research; clinical benefits for energy levels remain unproven.
NAC
SupplementNAC shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism through antioxidant and mitochondrial support, but human efficacy for energy/fatigue remains unproven. The single pilot RCT found no significant benefit over placebo for MS fatigue, while most evidence comes from mechanistic cell and animal studies.
Berberine
SupplementBerberine shows consistent effects on cellular energy metabolism and mitochondrial function in animal and in-vitro studies, with emerging evidence suggesting improved glucose uptake and ATP generation. However, only one human RCT exists for this specific goal, and it found no additional energy-related benefits beyond exercise alone.
CoQ10
SupplementCoQ10 shows consistent mechanistic effects on mitochondrial ATP production and oxidative stress in cell and animal models, but human efficacy for energy is not yet proven. Only one small human RCT exists, and observational studies lack proper controls and energy outcome measures.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
SupplementAlpha-lipoic acid shows plausible effects on cellular energy metabolism and mitochondrial function in animal and in-vitro studies, but direct evidence for improved human energy is lacking. No human RCTs specifically measured energy, fatigue, or exercise performance as primary outcomes.
Vitamin K2
SupplementVitamin K2 shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism through mitochondrial function and metabolic regulation, but evidence is primarily limited to one human RCT and animal studies. Proven efficacy in humans for energy production has not been established.
Boron
SupplementBoron supplementation shows mechanistic promise for energy metabolism and mitochondrial function in animal and in-vitro studies, but lacks meaningful human evidence demonstrating improved energy levels or exercise performance as a primary outcome.
Milk Thistle
SupplementMilk thistle shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and oxidative stress reduction in animal models and one small human study, but no rigorous human RCTs have demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in energy or fatigue.
Maca Root
SupplementMaca shows anti-fatigue potential in animal models and in vitro studies, but human evidence is extremely limited and inconsistent. The single human RCT testing energy-related outcomes found no significant benefits for fatigue or performance in trained athletes.
Black Seed Oil
SupplementBlack seed oil (Nigella sativa) has been studied primarily for mechanisms related to energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant activity, but evidence for direct energy-enhancing effects in humans is minimal. Only one small human RCT exists, studying PMS symptoms rather than energy directly.
Aged Garlic Extract
SupplementAged garlic extract has been studied extensively for energy and metabolic function, primarily in animal models and mechanistic research. Limited human evidence suggests potential benefits for aerobic fitness and metabolic parameters, but proof of efficacy for general 'energy' in humans remains insufficient.
Green Tea Extract
SupplementGreen tea extract shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism through mitochondrial function improvements, but direct human evidence for energy/fatigue outcomes is absent. One human RCT shows modest weight loss effects, but no study directly measures energy levels, fatigue reduction, or athletic performance in humans.
Psyllium Husk
SupplementPsyllium husk has not been demonstrated to improve energy levels. The available evidence focuses on cholesterol and lipid metabolism, with no studies in these abstracts directly measuring energy, fatigue, or related outcomes.
Vitamin C
SupplementVitamin C shows biologically plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism through mitochondrial function in cell and animal studies, but human evidence for energy/fatigue improvement remains limited to one small intranasal study and mentions in review articles. Efficacy for energy is not yet proven in humans.
Vitamin B12
SupplementVitamin B12 supplementation shows mixed evidence for energy improvement. While some human studies report subjective increases in energy and fatigue reduction, a high-quality meta-analysis found no significant effect on fatigue in patients without overt B12 deficiency, and efficacy is proven only in deficiency states.
Vitamin E
SupplementVitamin E shows plausible mechanisms for supporting mitochondrial energy metabolism and reducing oxidative stress, but human evidence for improved energy is minimal. Most evidence is mechanistic or from animal/cell studies; only 3 human RCTs exist in the top 20, and none directly measure energy or fatigue outcomes.
Selenium
SupplementSelenium shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and athletic performance through antioxidant pathways, but human efficacy evidence is minimal and inconsistent. No clear proof that selenium supplementation meaningfully improves energy or exercise performance in humans.
Copper
SupplementCopper is essential for mitochondrial energy production via cytochrome c oxidase, but clinical evidence of ergogenic benefit is absent. Most evidence comes from disease models (copper deficiency, genetic mutations) showing that restoring copper normalizes energy metabolism; no studies demonstrate copper supplementation enhances energy in healthy individuals.
Chromium
SupplementChromium supplementation shows plausible metabolic effects in animal and in-vitro studies, but human evidence for energy enhancement is weak and inconsistent. Most human RCTs found no significant improvement in glucose metabolism, body composition, or exercise performance.
Fisetin
SupplementFisetin shows consistent mechanistic effects on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in animal models and cell studies, but there is only 1 human RCT identified and it focused on cardiac ischemia-reperfusion rather than energy production. Efficacy for the specific goal of 'energy' remains plausible but unproven in humans.
Spermidine
SupplementSpermidine shows plausible mechanisms for enhancing energy and mitochondrial function based on consistent animal studies and mechanistic research, but human efficacy for energy specifically remains unproven. The single human RCT focused on cognition rather than energy outcomes.
Sulforaphane
SupplementSulforaphane shows consistent effects on mitochondrial function and Nrf2 activation in animal and cell studies, but human evidence for energy improvement is limited to 4 observational studies with no RCTs. Efficacy in humans remains plausible but unproven.
Pycnogenol
SupplementPycnogenol shows plausible effects on energy-related outcomes in humans—including fatigue reduction in post-COVID patients, improved exercise capacity in heart failure, and reduced jet-lag duration—but evidence is limited to small observational studies and uncontrolled trials. No large, well-designed RCTs specifically measuring energy or fatigue as primary outcomes exist.
TUDCA
SupplementTUDCA shows consistent mechanistic promise for energy metabolism in animal models and cell studies, with emerging evidence from limited human observational work, but lacks rigorous human RCT data proving efficacy for energy production or athletic performance.
Beta-Glucans
SupplementBeta-glucans show plausible mechanisms for supporting energy and exercise performance in humans, but evidence remains limited to a small number of human studies with modest sample sizes and mixed results. No robust human RCTs with large sample sizes definitively prove efficacy for energy production.
Cordyceps
SupplementCordyceps shows plausible mechanisms for enhancing energy through ATP production and mitochondrial function, supported by one small human RCT and multiple animal/mechanistic studies, but human efficacy for energy is not yet proven.
Reishi
SupplementReishi shows plausible effects on energy-related outcomes in preliminary human studies, but evidence remains limited to two small RCTs with mixed results and lacks consistent, conclusive human efficacy data for energy specifically.
Chaga
SupplementChaga shows promise for supporting cellular energy production through mechanisms involving mitochondrial function and metabolic pathways, but evidence is limited to in-vitro studies and mechanistic reviews with no human trials demonstrating efficacy for energy.
Pterostilbene
SupplementPterostilbene shows promise for energy production and mitochondrial function primarily through animal and cellular studies demonstrating improved ATP production and mitochondrial dynamics. However, evidence in humans is limited to one small pilot RCT in ALS patients, and no dedicated human trials specifically measuring energy levels or physical performance exist.
Grape Seed Extract
SupplementGrape seed extract shows consistent antioxidant and mitochondrial-protective effects in cell and animal models, but no human trials directly demonstrate improved energy levels. Mechanistic evidence is strong in vitro, but efficacy for energy as a clinical outcome remains unproven in humans.
Olive Leaf Extract
SupplementOlive leaf extract shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism through mitochondrial function enhancement, but human evidence is minimal and results are mixed. Only one human RCT directly tested energy outcomes, and it found NO significant effect on whole-body metabolism or fatigue resistance despite mechanistic changes.
MSM
SupplementMSM shows plausible mechanisms for supporting exercise recovery and reducing post-exercise oxidative stress in humans, but efficacy for 'energy' specifically is not directly demonstrated. Most evidence focuses on antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects after exercise, not energy production or fatigue reduction.
Bromelain
SupplementBromelain shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy and recovery through improved oxygenation and reduced muscle damage, but human evidence is limited to one small RCT (n=18) demonstrating improved oxygen utility capacity. Most supporting data comes from animal studies and mechanistic work, making efficacy in humans unproven.
Lactoferrin
SupplementLactoferrin has been studied primarily in animal models for neuroprotection and mitochondrial function, with mechanistic evidence suggesting potential benefits for energy metabolism through antioxidant and mitochondrial pathway regulation. However, no human randomized controlled trials directly demonstrate efficacy for energy, and the human observational studies do not assess energy as an outcome.
Stinging Nettle
SupplementOne small human RCT found that higher-dose stinging nettle reduced Gulf War Illness symptoms (p=0.048), but this is an isolated positive result in a specialized disease population. No human studies demonstrate efficacy for general energy enhancement.
Mucuna Pruriens
SupplementMucuna pruriens is studied primarily for Parkinson's disease and neuroprotection rather than general energy. The limited human evidence (4 RCTs) shows it was used as one ingredient in multi-component pre-workout supplements with modest or non-significant effects on exercise performance and energy measures.
Ecdysterone
SupplementEcdysterone shows plausible effects on cellular energy metabolism and ATP production based on animal studies and in-vitro research, but no human efficacy data exists for energy enhancement. Evidence is limited to mechanistic studies in insects and cellular models.
Turkesterone
SupplementTurkesterone shows consistent effects on mitochondrial function and metabolic parameters in rodent models of diabetes and hepatitis, but no human efficacy data exists for energy production or fatigue reduction. Animal studies suggest potential mechanisms but do not prove clinical benefit in humans.
Tribulus
SupplementTribulus terrestris shows antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in controlled human studies, but evidence for direct energy enhancement is weak. Human RCTs found no meaningful improvements in exercise performance or body composition, though one study reported potential testosterone support.
Echinacea
SupplementEchinacea shows immune-stimulating effects in humans (increased NK cell activity and cytokine production) but has NOT been proven to improve energy or fatigue in rigorous trials. The single study measuring fatigue found no significant improvement.
Valerian Root
SupplementValerian root shows plausible mechanisms for improving sleep quality and reducing sleep onset time in humans, but evidence for 'energy' specifically is weak and primarily indirect. Most human data focuses on sleep improvement, not daytime energy or fatigue.
Kava
SupplementKava shows anxiolytic effects in limited human studies, but evidence for energy specifically is weak and mostly indirect. One small RCT reported increased alertness alongside anxiety reduction, but this was not the primary outcome and the study was very small (n=20).
Lemon Balm
SupplementLemon balm has been studied primarily in animals and mechanistic models for energy-related outcomes, with very limited human evidence. One acute human RCT showed improved executive function performance at 5 hours post-treatment, but findings on energy/fatigue itself were mixed and inconclusive.
CLA
SupplementCLA has been studied for energy metabolism effects in both animals and humans, but evidence of proven efficacy for energy as a standalone health goal is limited and inconsistent. Most human studies show modest effects on fat oxidation and metabolic markers rather than direct energy improvements.
SAMe
SupplementSAMe's role in energy metabolism is mechanistically plausible but lacks direct human evidence demonstrating improved energy or fatigue. Existing research focuses on mitochondrial function and methionine metabolism; no human trials show efficacy for energy production or exercise performance.
Rapamycin
SupplementRapamycin shows plausible efficacy for fatigue in ME/CFS based on one pilot human observational study, but evidence remains preliminary. Mechanistic studies suggest mTOR inhibition may improve energy metabolism through autophagy, but rigorous human trials are lacking.
D-Ribose
SupplementD-Ribose is theoretically positioned to enhance ATP recovery and energy production through the pentose phosphate pathway, but evidence of actual efficacy in humans is limited to a single small RCT with mixed results. Most supporting evidence comes from mechanistic reviews and animal/in-vitro studies rather than demonstrated clinical benefit.
Butyrate
SupplementButyrate shows consistent mechanistic effects on energy metabolism in animal and cell models, primarily through mitochondrial function and SCFA production, but human efficacy for energy improvement remains unproven. Evidence is limited to observational correlations in disease states and mechanistic pathways, with no RCTs demonstrating that butyrate supplementation increases energy or reduces fatigue in healthy humans.
Betaine HCl
SupplementBetaine shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and physical performance, but human evidence for 'energy' as a specific health goal is limited and mixed. Most data comes from animal studies or mechanistic research rather than direct human trials demonstrating improved energy levels.
Peppermint Oil
SupplementPeppermint oil has not been studied directly for energy in humans. The available evidence suggests potential indirect benefits through improved digestive function and reduced fatigue associated with IBS and SIBO, but no direct energy or fatigue measurements are reported.
Lion's Mane
NootropicLion's Mane shows mechanistic promise for energy through neuroprotection and mitochondrial function, but has minimal human evidence for energy specifically. One small human study found no effects on metabolic flexibility or cognition; most support comes from animal studies and in-vitro research on cognitive/metabolic mechanisms.
Alpha-GPC
NootropicAlpha-GPC shows emerging evidence for energy and exercise performance in humans, with 3 RCTs demonstrating improvements in power output and time to fatigue in trained athletes. However, evidence is limited to small samples (n=13-30) and lacks independent replication; most supportive data comes from animal studies on mitochondrial function rather than direct human energy measurement.
Bacopa Monnieri
NootropicBacopa monnieri shows preliminary efficacy for cognitive performance and fatigue in humans, but evidence is limited to a small number of short-term RCTs with modest sample sizes. Claimed energy benefits are supported primarily by mechanistic research on mitochondrial function rather than direct clinical evidence of energy improvement.
Phosphatidylserine
NootropicPhosphatidylserine shows emerging evidence for attenuating post-exercise fatigue and mood disturbance in humans, but efficacy is based on a single small RCT with a multi-ingredient supplement. Most evidence concerns cellular mechanisms (mitochondrial function, apoptosis) rather than energy production in living organisms.
CDP-Choline
NootropicCDP-choline shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy and fatigue reduction, but direct human evidence for energy improvement is limited to small observational studies and indirect findings in fatigue-adjacent conditions. No rigorous human RCTs specifically measuring energy or fatigue outcomes were identified.
Ginkgo Biloba
NootropicGinkgo biloba shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy and cognitive function through mitochondrial support and antioxidant effects, but no human RCT evidence specifically demonstrates efficacy for energy or fatigue improvement. Available human data is limited to small pilot studies and indirect cognitive outcomes.
Huperzine A
NootropicHuperzine A has not been proven to enhance energy in humans. A small RCT in exercise-trained individuals found no improvement in cognitive function, heart rate, or perceived exertion during exercise, with higher post-exercise difficulty ratings after Huperzine A compared to placebo.
Noopept
NootropicNoopept shows consistent neuroprotective and antioxidant effects in animal models, but there is no human clinical evidence demonstrating efficacy for energy. Efficacy in humans remains unproven.
Piracetam
NootropicPiracetam may reduce fatigue in specific conditions like post-traumatic brain injury, but human evidence is limited to a single mention in a systematic review with no dedicated RCTs. Most evidence comes from mechanistic studies in cell models and animals showing improved mitochondrial function, which is theoretically relevant to energy but does not prove clinical efficacy for fatigue.
Aniracetam
NootropicAniracetam shows mechanistic promise for energy-related outcomes through improved cerebral metabolism and ATP production, but evidence comes from only one small human study (n=15) with autonomic dysfunction, plus animal and in-vitro data. No direct human evidence for energy enhancement in healthy populations.
Phenylpiracetam
NootropicPhenylpiracetam shows potential nootropic and mitochondrial-protective effects in animal models, but there is no human clinical evidence for energy improvement. All available evidence comes from rodent studies with indirect biomarkers rather than direct energy or fatigue measurements.
Uridine
NootropicUridine has plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and mitochondrial function based on multiple human studies, but direct evidence for 'energy' as a health outcome is limited and mostly indirect. No RCT has directly measured fatigue, exercise performance, or energy levels as a primary outcome.
Vinpocetine
NootropicVinpocetine shows neuroprotective mechanisms in cell and animal studies, but human evidence for energy/fatigue is absent. The 3 human studies focus on cognitive impairment and cerebrovascular disorders, not energy levels.
Centrophenoxine
NootropicCentrophenoxine shows consistent antioxidant and neuroprotective effects in animal models and metabolic enzyme activity changes in vitro, but there are zero human trials demonstrating efficacy for energy production or physical performance. Plausibility is supported by mechanistic data, but efficacy in humans remains unproven.
NSI-189
NootropicNSI-189 shows consistent effects on mitochondrial function and cognitive markers in rodent diabetes and toxicity models, but no human trials have evaluated its impact on energy specifically. Efficacy is plausible but unproven in humans.
9-ME-BC
Nootropic9-ME-BC shows neuroprotective and dopamine-enhancing effects in animal models and cell culture, with potential implications for energy metabolism through mitochondrial function. However, no human efficacy studies exist, limiting proof of real-world energy benefits.
Bromantane
NootropicBromantane shows consistent effects on physical endurance and fatigue recovery in animal models and one small human RCT, but human efficacy is not conclusively proven. Evidence is limited to a single human trial with modest sample size and several animal studies.
DMAE
NootropicDMAE has been studied for energy in only one human RCT as part of a multi-ingredient formula with ginseng, showing improved work capacity and oxygen utilization. No human studies have isolated DMAE's contribution to energy, and most evidence comes from mechanistic animal and in-vitro studies.
Sulbutiamine
NootropicSulbutiamine shows promise for fatigue in preliminary human studies, but efficacy remains unproven. One RCT found no sustained benefit for chronic postinfectious fatigue, while an observational study in multiple sclerosis reported improvements; however, robust evidence is insufficient.
Oxiracetam
NootropicOxiracetam shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism in animal and in vitro studies, but efficacy for energy in humans remains unproven. Limited human data exist, and no RCT has directly measured energy or fatigue as a primary outcome.
L-Theanine
Amino AcidL-theanine's effects on energy are primarily demonstrated through improved alertness and reduced mental fatigue when combined with caffeine in human studies, but direct evidence for standalone energy enhancement in humans is limited. Most mechanistic evidence comes from animal and in-vitro studies showing mitochondrial function improvements.
L-Tyrosine
Amino AcidL-Tyrosine shows promising effects on endurance performance under mental fatigue in a single small human RCT, but evidence remains limited to one positive study with only 12 participants. Efficacy for general energy is not established.
L-Glutamine
Amino AcidL-Glutamine supplementation shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and mitochondrial function, but human efficacy for 'energy' as a standalone health goal remains largely unproven. Evidence consists primarily of mechanistic reviews and animal studies; only one small human RCT exists with modest outcomes.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine
Amino AcidAcetyl-L-carnitine has not been proven effective for improving energy in humans. While mechanistic studies suggest mitochondrial support, the only human RCT examining aerobic/anaerobic performance found no improvement in trained cyclists despite reduced blood lactate.
Glycine
Amino AcidGlycine supplementation shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism and mitochondrial function, but human evidence for energy improvement is limited and mixed. Most evidence comes from animal studies, mechanistic research, or studies where energy was a secondary outcome.
5-HTP
Amino Acid5-HTP shows plausible but unproven effects on energy in humans. Most evidence comes from animal studies and mechanistic research; human data is limited to small trials focused on mood, appetite, and metabolic markers rather than direct energy measurement.
Taurine
Amino AcidTaurine shows plausible benefits for energy metabolism and mitochondrial function based on animal studies and mechanistic research, but human evidence for energy improvement is minimal and largely indirect. A single small human case report and limited data from ergogenic aid studies suggest potential, but efficacy in humans is not proven.
L-Carnosine
Amino AcidL-carnosine shows plausible benefits for energy and fatigue in one small human pilot study (n=3) and supportive mechanistic evidence in animal and in-vitro models, but efficacy in humans remains unproven due to minimal human data and lack of controlled trials with adequate sample sizes.
Leucine
Amino AcidLeucine supplementation shows consistent effects on energy metabolism and mitochondrial function in animal models and isolated muscle cells, but human evidence for energy enhancement is minimal. Most data comes from animal studies (14 studies) and reviews (27 studies); only 4 human RCTs exist, and none directly measure energy or athletic performance as primary outcomes.
Lysine
Amino AcidLysine supplementation shows plausible mechanisms for supporting energy metabolism in animal and bacterial models, but no human RCT evidence directly demonstrates efficacy for energy production or fatigue reduction.
BPC-157
PeptideNo direct evidence exists for BPC-157's effects on energy levels. One editorial mentions theoretical metabolic benefits but provides no supporting data.
Ipamorelin
PeptideNo evidence exists demonstrating that ipamorelin improves energy in humans. The single available abstract is a doping control analytical method paper with no efficacy data.
Selank
PeptideNo evidence supports Selank for energy. The two available studies examine hepatoprotection and antioxidant stress response in rats, not energy or fatigue endpoints.
PT-141
PeptidePT-141 is mentioned only as a clinically approved ligand for melanocortin receptors in a review article; no primary research demonstrates efficacy for energy goals in humans or animals.
KPV
PeptideKPV has not been studied for energy outcomes in humans or animals. The single available study examined its effects on ulcerative colitis via targeted nanoparticle delivery, which is entirely unrelated to energy production or fatigue.
LL-37
PeptideLL-37 has not been studied as an energy-enhancing agent in any of the 50 available abstracts. The available evidence examines LL-37's antimicrobial, inflammatory, and cellular effects, but none address energy production, ATP availability, or energy metabolism as a primary outcome.
Dihexa
PeptideDihexa (PNB-0408) has not been proven effective for energy in humans. The single available study tested it for Huntington's disease-like symptoms in rats and found it did not protect against the tested deficits.
Tesamorelin
PeptideTesamorelin has not been studied for energy production or fatigue in any of the available abstracts. The compound shows effects on body composition and mitochondrial phosphocreatine recovery in obese populations, but there is no direct evidence it improves energy as a health goal.
Melanotan 1
PeptideMelanotan 1 (afamelanotide) has not been studied for energy as a health goal. The available human evidence shows benefits for skin conditions and light sensitivity, but does not address energy levels, fatigue, or related metabolic outcomes.
Follistatin 344
PeptideThere is no direct evidence that Follistatin 344 improves energy in humans. The abstracts mention follistatin as a biomarker that responds to exercise, but do not study Follistatin 344 as a therapeutic intervention for energy.
Cortagen
PeptideCortagen has not been proven to enhance energy in humans. The only available evidence is a single animal study showing reduced oxidative stress markers in rats, which does not directly demonstrate energy-enhancing effects.
IGF-1 LR3
PeptideIGF-1 LR3 has no demonstrated efficacy for improving energy in humans. Available evidence is limited to animal and in-vitro studies, most of which show null or negative effects on growth and metabolism when energy is the relevant outcome.
ACE-031
PeptideACE-031 has not been demonstrated to improve energy in humans. Available evidence is limited to mechanistic discussion in a review article and animal model context; no clinical trials or human efficacy data for energy outcomes exist.
Argireline
PeptideThere is no credible evidence that Argireline improves energy. The single available study is an in-vitro cell culture experiment examining anti-aging effects in skin fibroblasts, which is entirely unrelated to energy production or metabolism.
Retinalamin
PeptideRetinalamin has not been demonstrated to improve energy in any human trials. The single observational study examined its effects on hemostasis and antioxidant markers in diabetic retinopathy patients, which is unrelated to energy production or fatigue.
Prostatilen
PeptideProstatilen has not been studied for energy in humans. The only available evidence consists of two small animal studies examining antioxidant balance in experimentally-induced prostate hyperplasia, with no direct measurement of energy, fatigue, or performance outcomes.
Elderberry
SupplementElderberry has not been studied for energy production in humans. Available evidence is limited to mechanistic in-vitro studies and one small animal study on testosterone (a proxy for vitality), with no direct human trials demonstrating efficacy for energy or fatigue.
Iodine
SupplementIodine supplementation is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis and thyroid function, but the abstracts provided do not demonstrate that iodine supplementation improves energy levels in humans. The studies focus on iodine's role in preventing deficiency-related thyroid disorders rather than enhancing energy as a therapeutic outcome.
Biotin
SupplementBiotin's role in energy production is theoretically plausible based on its function as a cofactor for carboxylase enzymes, but there is no direct human evidence demonstrating that biotin supplementation improves energy levels or exercise performance in the general population.
DIM
SupplementDIM has not been studied for energy in humans. All available evidence consists of in-vitro and animal studies focused on cancer, reproduction, and neuroprotection—none of which measure energy, fatigue, or ATP production as primary outcomes.
Boswellia
SupplementBoswellia has no demonstrated efficacy for energy in humans. The single human RCT studied oxidative stress markers in athletes, not energy outcomes. All other evidence is from animal models, cell cultures, or mechanistic reviews addressing inflammation, neuroprotection, and metabolic dysfunction—not energy production or fatigue.
Nattokinase
SupplementNattokinase has not been studied for energy as a primary outcome in humans. The 18 abstracts focus almost exclusively on fibrinolytic, thrombolytic, and neuroprotective mechanisms with no evidence demonstrating improved energy, fatigue reduction, or exercise performance.
Turkey Tail
SupplementTurkey Tail has not been studied for energy in humans. The available literature discusses its use for cancer treatment side effects and antioxidant properties, with no evidence addressing energy or fatigue as a health outcome.
Apigenin
SupplementNo human evidence supports apigenin for energy. The three abstracts discuss apigenin's effects on rooster sperm cryopreservation, sleep disorders (via a different compound), and endothelial cell lipotoxicity — none directly address energy, fatigue, or performance in humans.
Fadogia Agrestis
SupplementFadogia agrestis has not been studied for energy in humans. The only available PubMed abstract is a toxicology study in rats showing cellular damage to liver and kidney tissue, which is irrelevant to energy claims.
Passionflower
SupplementNo evidence supports passionflower for energy. The single available study is a case report of adverse drug interactions, not efficacy data for energy production or enhancement.
Lithium Orotate
SupplementNo human evidence exists for lithium orotate's effects on energy. Available studies are limited to cell cultures and one animal model, showing theoretical mechanisms for neuroprotection and metabolic enhancement, but no proven efficacy in humans for energy production or fatigue reduction.
Pregnenolone
SupplementPregnenolone is a steroid precursor extensively studied in biochemical and mechanistic contexts, but no human evidence demonstrates that pregnenolone supplementation improves energy levels or energy-related outcomes.
Pramiracetam
NootropicPramiracetam shows variable and inconsistent protective effects against different types of anoxia in animal models, with no demonstrated efficacy for energy in humans. Evidence is limited to a single animal study where pramiracetam's effects were notably weaker than comparison compounds.
GABA
Amino AcidGABA supplementation has not been studied for energy enhancement in humans. The 50 abstracts are almost entirely mechanistic reviews examining GABA's role in neural metabolism, mitochondrial function, and neurotransmission—not its effects as a supplement on energy levels or fatigue.
D-Aspartic Acid
Amino AcidD-Aspartic acid has not been proven to enhance energy in humans. The 50 PubMed articles are overwhelmingly mechanistic reviews and animal studies; only 2 human RCTs and 3 observational studies exist, none of which directly assess energy as a primary outcome.