For years, the energy drink industry has relied on caffeine and artificial sugar to give consumers a boost. But a new solution might be on its way, as Cedarville University collaborates with CAHV Holdings to test a new, all-natural energy drink.

A pilot study started on Friday, January 24, with the goal of completing research by the end of February.

“This formula is a safer alternative to other energy drinks because the sugar components are more natural,” said Dr. Rocco Rotello, associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences at Cedarville University. “As a result, the new energy drink should reduce the side effects, like headaches and cardiovascular risks, that you get from the heavy sugar and caffeine doses.”

CAHV Holdings, a startup wellness company based in West Chester, Ohio, invented this formula as a preperformance drink that works with the biochemistry of the human body. The drink uses natural components that promote blood flow to the muscles, resulting in increased alertness and response time in the consumer.

— Rocco Rotello

Rotello and Cedarville’s school of pharmacy will lead the investigation through the Center for Pharmacy Innovation in collaboration with the Cedarville exercise science program to discover if the formula works as intended.

“Cedarville University has excellent research facilities and works to collaborate across departments as well as with organizations that align with our university mission,” said Dr. April Crommett, associate professor of exercise science. “This particular project will allow students to develop lab skills while also advancing a product that has good potential for filling a niche in the preworkout supplement arena.”

Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 4,380 undergraduate, graduate and online students in more than 150 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, including its Doctor of Pharmacy program, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings and high student engagement ranking. For more information about the University, visit www.cedarville.edu.