Kim Kardashian’s New Energy Drink Uses Paraxanthine Instead of Caffeine — Here’s What Experts Say

Kim Kardashian has introduced a new energy drink called Update. The company says it contains zero sugar, zero calories, and no artificial flavors or colors.

Unlike most energy drinks, Update is caffeine-free. Instead, it gets its kick from paraxanthine, a compound the human body naturally creates when it processes caffeine.

According to the brand’s promotional materials, Update “delivers smooth, steady energy without the jitters, crashes, or sleep disruption commonly associated with traditional energy drinks.”

But paraxanthine isn’t the only active ingredient. Update also includes alpha-GPC, a compound often marketed for brain performance, along with the artificial sweetener sucralose and L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea.

“It is important to speak to your healthcare provider about any supplement or energy beverage that you may be considering, even ones that are labeled ‘natural,’” said Dr. Jonathan Jennings, a board certified internist with Medical Offices of Manhattan.

“Appropriate dosing is still being investigated, so it is important to follow recommended ingestion amounts,” he told Healthline.

Avery Zenker, a registered dietitian at MyHealthTeam, emphasized that people should focus on healthy habits first. “Prioritize a healthy lifestyle, quality sleep, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental hygiene, rather than rely on energy drinks for a boost,” she said.

Healthline spoke with experts to learn more about paraxanthine and whether it’s a better choice than caffeine.

Is paraxanthine better than caffeine?

Jennings: Paraxanthine is a breakdown product of caffeine. When you consume caffeine, your liver breaks it down into three metabolites. Paraxanthine is the main one. The other two — theobromine and theophylline — are linked to uncomfortable side effects like anxiety, nausea, diarrhea, and rapid heartbeat.

Zenker: It’s hard to say which is “better” because it depends on the person. Both have pros and cons. Caffeine might work better for some people, while paraxanthine may be a better fit for others. There’s much more research on caffeine, and more people have personal experience with it. Caffeine is also widely used in coffee and tea around the world. That said, early research on paraxanthine looks promising. It may offer similar or even stronger energy with fewer side effects. But more studies are needed to know for sure.

What does research say about paraxanthine vs. caffeine?

Jennings: Some early studies suggest that paraxanthine may promote alertness better and for longer than equal amounts of caffeine. Rodent studies have also shown less toxicity at higher doses compared to caffeine. Preliminary data suggests that removing theobromine and theophylline may make paraxanthine more effective, better tolerated, and safer than caffeine.

Zenker: There is much more data on caffeine than on paraxanthine. Both are nervous system stimulants that promote wakefulness. Research shows that both compounds have similar effects on the body, including raising blood pressure and adrenaline levels. They both block adenosine receptors, which is what makes you feel less tired. Caffeine is known to cause side effects like anxiety and high blood pressure when consumed in excess, while paraxanthine may cause fewer of these issues. Paraxanthine may also offer some extra benefits for brain function that caffeine alone doesn’t. Paraxanthine isn’t a new compound, but it’s still not widely used in products like caffeine is.

What are the benefits and risks of Update’s other ingredients?

Jennings: L-theanine is an amino acid found in tea leaves. Some evidence shows that when combined with caffeine, it may improve focus, alertness, and cognitive performance. Alpha-GPC is a compound that helps the body produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for nerve communication and muscle contraction. Taking alpha-GPC supplements may help maintain choline levels and support thinking skills. Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 that the body can use easily. It helps protect DNA, supports brain cells, and boosts immune function. Some data suggests this form of B12 stays in the body longer.

Zenker: L-theanine is known for helping with attention and reducing anxiety, especially when taken with caffeine. It creates a feeling of being relaxed but alert. The dose matters, though. If the label doesn’t list how much L-theanine is in the drink, it might not be enough to work. Alpha-GPC is a form of choline, an essential nutrient for the nervous system. It’s generally safe, but some research has linked high intakes to health risks like heart disease. Side effects at normal doses are rare but can include headaches, acid reflux, nausea, or dizziness. Vitamin B12 helps the body turn food into energy. It’s important for the nervous system, energy production, and making red blood cells. Energy drinks often include high doses of B12, but it’s most likely to boost energy in people who are low in B12. For people with normal levels, it may not cause an immediate energy boost. B12 is water-soluble, so any extra is flushed out in urine, and the risk of toxicity is low.

What should people know before trying Update energy drinks?

Jennings: All the supporting ingredients have early evidence suggesting they may help with thinking and alertness compared to caffeine. But there aren’t enough high-quality human studies on paraxanthine and L-theanine yet.

Zenker: First, ask yourself why you want an energy drink. Having one once in a while is fine, but if you rely on them often, there may be an underlying issue to address. Energy drinks can make you feel better in the short term, but they don’t fix the health problems caused by poor sleep, a bad diet, or an unhealthy lifestyle. Ideally, we shouldn’t need energy drinks to feel energized. If you do try a new one, start with a small amount. Don’t drink the whole thing quickly before you know how it affects you. Everyone reacts differently. Read the nutrition facts, ingredient list, and amounts of active compounds like caffeine. Not all energy drinks are the same, so if you choose to have one, make sure it fits your health goals.