Energy supplements have also become extremely popular among athletes. There are literally hundreds of natural energy boosting supplements in every form imaginable targeting athletes.

One must err on the side of caution when choosing energy supplements. Some contain stimulates that will surely boost your energy levels, but they could also jeopardize your health. For example, the highly touted energy herb Ephedra, which was promoted as a weight-loss, sports performance enhancer and an energy boosting supplement, was found to increase heart rate, elevate blood pressure, and if misused, could contribute to a stroke or heart attack. The FDA has issued warnings on its potential dangers and it's been banned by several athletic organizations, including the International Olympic Committee.

Thankfully, there are natural energy supplements that can appease the average fatigued individual, the weekend warrior and also the sports athlete.

Energy Supplement: Vitamins
Vitamin B is prized for its energy boosting abilities, most notably Biotin, vitamin B12 (Cobalamin), and folic acid. Moreover, they also help with stress. The B vitamins are involved in energy production making them extremely powerful in combating fatigue and boosting energy levels.

Energy Supplement: Minerals
Magnesium can provide a tired body relief because this mineral is involved with energy production and, as such, it can help with physical and emotional stress. In fact, it is known as the anti-stress mineral.

Energy Supplement: Herbs
Ginseng is prized for its energy boosting properties. Held in high regard to enhance mental alertness as well as boost stamina, immunity, and energy. As such, it helps combat daily emotional and physical stresses.

Ginkgo Biloba is a multifaceted herb famous for enhancing circulation and increasing mental acuity, but it also promotes boosting energy levels as well.

Gotu Kola has been used for thousands of years in India's Ayurvedic medicine. Gotu Kola revitalizes the nerves and brain cells and improves the flow of blood throughout the body by strengthening the veins and capillaries.

Energy Supplement: Nutrients
NADH (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). Studies have shown this natural substance to increase energy levels and combat fatigue. In fact, this powerhouse nutrient is often used by those with chronic fatigue syndrome. NADH can help stimulate the production of energy-giving ATP ensuring its use is at the highest level. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) energy is what runs many of the body's processes, including storing and releasing energy.

L-Carnitine. An amino acid that it's primary role is to help transport fatty acids into the energy producing units in the cells - the mitochondria, where they can be converted to energy. This is a major source of energy for the muscles. Some symptoms of deficiency include: fatigue, chest pain, muscle pain, weakness, and confusion.

DMAE is a chemical that participates in the manufacturing of acetylcholine, which is a substance that plays an important role in memory and mood. People who have taken DMAE often report an increase in physical energy.

MSM is a naturally occurring organic sulfur compound that is known to help skin, hair, nail, tendons, joint, and connective tissue health. However, this nutrient has shown to boost energy levels and fight fatigue for many people using it.

Energy Supplement: Bee Pollen
Bee Pollen is a supplement that one should consider if you're in search for one of the best energy supplements. It is often referred to as "nature’s perfect food" because it contains all of the nutrients needed to sustain life. Bee pollen contains 35% protein, 55% carbohydrates, 2% fatty acids, and 3% minerals and vitamins. It has been noted to have a high concentration of vitamins A, C, D, and E, and it is extraordinarily rich in the B-complex vitamins.

Bee Pollen is very popular among athletes--they often use it to increase endurance, stamina, muscle strength, and mental clarity.

Energy Supplement Precautions
Bee pollen tends to be a very safe supplement, with no serious side effects. However, those who are allergic to bee stings should not use bee pollen or any other supplements derived from bees because it could cause an allergic reaction.

Ginseng. Anyone who suffers from high blood pressure or women who are pregnant or nursing should consult a physician before taking ginseng. In addition, ginseng is not recommended for people who suffer from ischemic or vascular heart disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, and migraines. Since ginseng stimulates fertility, ginseng should be avoided by women who are starting any new brand of oral contraceptives.

Ginkgo harbors antithrombotic activity, therefore people on blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin, should consult a physician before taking ginkgo because of the increased risk of severe bleeding. In addition, it is advised that if you have a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia, the use of this herb should be avoided.

Gotu Kola is considered safe when taken as recommended. Although rare, some people developed an allergic skin rash.

The B vitamins should always be taken together because they work as a team. It is extremely important that you consult a physician before considering taking a stand-alone product. Experts have learned that the B vitamins compete for absorption and, as such, taking very high doses of one may result in a deficiency of another, so it should only be done under the supervision of a qualified physician or nutritionist.

Magnesium supplements should not be taken by people with kidney or heart disease unless instructed by a physician. The common side effects are nausea and diarrhea, but usually at doses above 500 milligrams.

All supplements that boost energy should be carefully considered by anyone on prescription medications. You should consult your physician before adding a supplement to your diet to boost energy specifically. Be sure to talk to your doctor first if you are on a medical regimen that may interfere or conflict with the energy supplement.