Quick -- what are you drinking right now? What do you drink when you work out at the gym, ride your bike, go for a long hike or play in the park with your kids? For that matter, what's your beverage of choice on your morning commute, at your desk, in front of the TV or at a backyard barbecue?

If you think plain old water is too boring to drink all the time, join the crowd. It seems everyone today chugs some kind of flavored, enhanced water, even if it costs way more than the stuff from the tap. While many of these products are supposed to be good for people engaging in strenuous exercise, let's face it; we drink them even if we're not athletes -- or aren't even breaking a sweat. These beverages are heavily marketed to the general public, but do they have the same benefits for us? More importantly, are they good for us?

ENERGY DRINKS
Do energy drinks live up to their hype? Can they really increase your energy levels, boost your concentration and alertness, stimulate your metabolism, improve your stamina and help you leap over tall buildings or meet your latest work deadline? These combinations of caffeine, herbs, vitamins and amino acids certainly sound scientific -- but do they work? And if they really are effective, are they safe?

The answer depends on your individual metabolism and preferences. Some people swear by energy drinks. They say the concoctions can't be beat for getting them through their workday or giving them a boost before exercise. Others find the combination of caffeine and sugar leaves them feeling jittery, nervous and irritable. But sales of energy drinks have doubled in the past year, so someone's slurping them up.