My grandmother told me about the health benefits of a new, natural drink called “Qi” (pronounced Qwee). It is made of prickly pear puree, mango puree and potassium sorbate.

According to the brochure, it has health benefits that include balancing blood-sugar levels, which can prevent diabetes, balancing blood pressure, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and triglycerides.

This drink can also give you a natural energy boost without jitters or irritability. It can improve brain function, focus, memory and emotional balance, as well as improve your immune system. It can fight free radicals and inflammation as an antioxidant, which may prevent cancer, degenerative diseases and diseases in general. One pamphlet also suggests that prickly pear can prevent or improve arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia.

My grandmother, who has diabetes, says that her irritable bowel syndrome has possibly gone away and that her blood-sugar levels seem to be consistent since she started drinking Qi. She said that she drank about half a bottle before she started seeing the health benefits.

My grandmother's friends have had similar effects, including a decrease in diabetic medication and a slight increase in energy.

Although I don't really believe in magically fast results, it's hard not to believe that Qi is effective in some way. It certainly can't hurt, since it has natural ingredients and tastes pretty good.

Each bottle costs $27.50 and apparently it must be purchased in a case of four. This turns out to be $110. However, it may be worth it if there are health benefits. My grandmother said to take only a small cup each day (think a 5 ounce Dixie cup or smaller).

I noticed after trying it yesterday for the first time that I did have a little energy boost, but I won't make any statements until after I've had at least a half bottle of the stuff. I will keep you posted!

Link to Qi site: http://www.drinkqi.com/index.aspx

Here are some other foods and drinks that can help boost energy levels, according to HerWriter Fit Diva Lara:

- Carbohydrates (whole grains)

- Nuts (like almonds, hazelnuts and cashews)

- Brazil nuts

- Lean meats (pork, lean beef, skinless chicken and turkey)

- Salmon and leafy greens

- Beans, fruits, whole grain breads and cereals (fiber)

- Water and fresh fruit

- Coffee, tea and chocolate (in moderation)

Link to article: https://www.empowher.com/news/herarticle/2009/02/23/need-energy-boost

Here is a link to a Web site that has recipes for natural, yummy smoothies and drinks that supposedly can boost energy levels: http://www.chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com/drinks-for-natural-energy-boost.html

Examples of smoothies and drinks include:

- Banana & Fig Smoothie
- Honey & Bee Pollen Drink
- Egg Yolk & Carrot Juice
- Soy Milk, Egg Yolk & Honey Smoothie
- Carrot, Apple, Egg Yolk & Honey Smoothie