Mid-terms continued, gym habits, and RED BULL

Yesterday I was complaining about this past week and how it has been so stressful. I observed that alot of people still make time to go to the gym. I spoke to a few gym goers and they all explained they still make time to work out regardless of their hectic schedules. If you think about all the things you want to accomplish in a day, the gym is just something else to add to the long list. For me, working out helps relieve stress. The hardest part is finding the time to get over to Marino or go for a run if the weather is strangely warm.

A significant part of this issue is the need for a change of scenery. How much time do you spend cooped up in the library or in your apartment doing homework and studying? Sometimes you need to breathe in some fresh air, although during the winter you don't want to remain outside for too long. A change of scenery is always nice.

My roommate, Stacey, goes to the gym 3 to 4 times a week. She usually brings her gym clothes with her to class and heads over directly after her classes. I think this is a smart idea for two reasons: It saves you another trip into the frigid winter wonderland of Boston, when the weather is extremely cold. Secondly, you make efficient use of your time because you don't go home and procrastinate. According to Stacey, working out helps to alleviate stress. I agree with her because exercising makes you feel better immediately afterwards. Even if you're tired, you have a natural energy boost for a few hours. It's healthier than drinking a can of Red Bull.

The following are some links reviewing the nutrition value of energy drinks:
http://www.thedailyplate.com/food-nutrition/food/red-bull/energy-drink
http://www.snopes.com/medical/potables/redbull.asp

This link gives a chemical analysis of the ingredients in energy drinks. It discusses taurine, a common ingredient used:
http://www.3dchem.com/molecules.asp?ID=22

Read the article "Energy drinks pack a punch, but is it too much?" on www.cnn.com. It's several years old, but provides some smart information for consumers:
http://archives.cnn.com/2001/HEALTH/diet.fitness/05/29/energy.drinks.02/