Kim Kardashian Launches Caffeine-Free Energy Drink 'Update' with Paraxanthine: Does It Work?

Kim Kardashian’s New Energy Drink: Update

Kim Kardashian has launched a new energy drink called Update, which replaces caffeine with paraxanthine—a compound naturally produced by the body when it metabolizes caffeine. The drink is marketed as zero sugar, zero calories, and free from artificial flavors or colors.

Update is promoted as delivering smooth, steady energy without the jitters, crashes, or sleep disruption commonly associated with traditional energy drinks. While paraxanthine is the primary energizing ingredient, the drink also includes other components found in energy supplements, such as alpha-GPC (often marketed for cognitive performance) and sucralose (an artificial sweetener).

Expert Insights on Paraxanthine vs. Caffeine

Healthline spoke with medical and nutrition experts to assess the potential benefits and drawbacks of paraxanthine compared to caffeine.

Jonathan Jennings, MD, Board-Certified Internist

"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.’ Appropriate dosing is still being investigated, so it is important to follow recommended ingestion amounts."

Dr. Jennings explained that paraxanthine is a breakdown product of caffeine. When caffeine is ingested, the liver metabolizes it into three primary compounds: paraxanthine, theobromine, and theophylline. These metabolites have varying effects on the body:

• Paraxanthine: Predominant metabolite, linked to energizing effects.
• Theobromine: Associated with side effects like anxiety and rapid heartbeats.
• Theophylline: Linked to nausea and diarrhea.

Dr. Jennings noted that preclinical studies suggest paraxanthine may promote alertness better and for longer periods than equal amounts of caffeine. Additionally, rodent studies have shown less toxicity at higher doses compared to caffeine.

Avery Zenker, Registered Dietitian

"It’s tough to say which is ‘better’ since there are numerous factors to consider. Both caffeine and paraxanthine have their pros and cons. Caffeine might be the better choice for some people, while paraxanthine may be optimal for others."

Zenker emphasized that while caffeine is more widely studied and consumed globally, paraxanthine shows promising emerging research with potential advantages, such as equivalent or stronger energizing effects with fewer side effects. However, she cautioned that more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.

Health Experts Advise Caution

Both experts stressed the importance of consulting a healthcare provider before trying new energy drinks or supplements, even those marketed as natural. They also highlighted the need to follow recommended serving sizes, as optimal dosing for paraxanthine is still under investigation.

Zenker added that individuals should prioritize healthy lifestyle habits—such as quality sleep, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental hygiene—rather than relying on energy drinks for an energy boost.

What Is Paraxanthine?

Paraxanthine is a methylxanthine compound naturally produced in the body when caffeine is metabolized. It is also found in small amounts in cocoa beans and tea leaves. Unlike caffeine, paraxanthine does not act as a central nervous system stimulant in the same way, which may explain its potential to provide energy without the typical side effects associated with caffeine.

The launch of Update marks one of the first mainstream consumer products to feature paraxanthine as a primary energizing ingredient. While early research is promising, consumers are advised to approach the product with cautious optimism until further studies validate its long-term benefits and safety.