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Relying on your pre-workout energy drink? Obsessed with your afternoon cup of coffee? You are not alone. Most of us take a pick-me-up at some point in the day! But let’s face it: traditional energy drinks are loaded with sugar and artificial ingredients. Plus, they usually contain enough caffeine to spill over into the next day’s portion. Fortunately, we come with alternatives. We share healthy drinks and clean ingredients. Find out why we’re so obsessed with functional energy drinks—and find the best ones to keep.
Eddie Horstman
Edie is the founder of the nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormonal balance, and postpartum health.
The Collective Shift
The health sector is changing. And we’re all on a (changing) ride. We move on to the most logical choice again the best products for you. As a Dietitian, this is music to my ears. This collective shift reflects our desire for improved well-being and a more conscious approach to what we eat. By embracing this change, we’re not just adapting to new trends—we’re building the future of well-being together.
Continuous Power, Without Crashing
As we become more conscious of what we put into our bodies, energy drinks are no different. We want continuous power without crashing (or jittery feeling). That’s why healthy energy drinks are trending. They do the work while focus on natural caffeine, adaptogens, electrolytes, and blood sugar sweeteners. Whether you’re looking for energy in the afternoon slump or to improve your workout, there’s a healthy option within reach.
Are energy drinks right for you?
It’s a mixed bag. Yes, energy drinks provide a quick boost, but the key is to choose cans with clean ingredients (and natural sources of caffeine). Properly access energy drinks with benefits, such as added vitamins and adaptogens. On the other hand, avoid those with refined sugars and artificial additives. In moderation—and with the right ingredients—they are effective companions for busy days.
What to Look for in Healthy Energy Drinks
Compared to their sugary counterparts (best to skip these!), healthier alternatives have a shorter ingredient list again no artificial additives. So, how can you identify healthy options?
Additional performance benefits: Look for supplements like B vitamins (for energy metabolism), electrolytes (for hydration), and adaptogens/nootropics to reduce stress and improve focus.
Natural sweeteners: Skip high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. Well balanced energy drinks use options like stevia, monk fruit, or a touch of honey.
No artificial ingredients: Say goodbye to preservatives and dyes.
Clean up sources of caffeine: Instead of relying on artificial caffeine, healthier versions opt for natural sources—like green tea extract, guayusa, and yerba mate—that provide smooth energy without the crash.
Disclaimer: Even the most energy drinks are not a substitute for proper hydration, a nutritious diet, and a good night’s sleep.!
Caffeine content range
Inevitably, energy drinks come in varying levels of caffeine. If you want a little boost, drink one with 50-100 milligrams of caffeine. You will get a soft lift outside great renewal. Are you looking for something stronger? Standard energy drinks typically provide 100-200 milligrams of caffeine—like Bloom. With this, you will get a moderate energy boost. High-caffeine energy drinks push the limits from 300-500 milligrams. Chug with caution!
How to Choose Your Perfect Can of Caffeine
Before you pick up the tab, consider your personal needs and lifestyle. Here are a few tips:
- Caffeine sensitivity. Are you sensitive to caffeine? Choose energy drinks with no more than 100 milligrams of caffeine. Additionally, look for supplements like L-theanine that moderate the caffeine buzz.
- Food needs. Do you follow a certain diet (vegan, keto, etc.)? Check the label to make sure the drink fits your lifestyle.
- Additional Benefits. Are you looking for more than just power? Look for drinks with added vitamins, minerals, or adaptogens to support your overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Energy Drinks
Are healthy energy drinks safe? In moderation, yes (caveat if you are pregnant or nursing). Acceptable amount of caffeine the majority people can get up to 400 milligrams a day, which is about the equivalent of four 8-ounce cups of steamed coffee.
Can you drink healthy drinks every day? To avoid overeating, it is better to limit the use to one a day.
Do healthy energy drinks really work? Yes, they provide energy, focus, and hydration without the sugar crash of traditional energy drinks.
How do healthy soft drinks compare to coffee? You may get additional benefits—such as adaptogens and vitamins—when coffee is a direct source of caffeine.
Are there any side effects to drinking healthy energy drinks? Excessive consumption can lead to dehydration, sleep disturbances, or excessive caffeine stimulation. Stick to the recommended serving size.
8 Energy Drinks We’re Loving Right Now
If you catch us drinking a strong drink, it’s probably one of these.
Bloom Nutrition
Made with zero sugar, natural caffeine, and healthy ingredients (like prebiotics and lychee), each 10-calorie serving can boost energy, boost metabolism, and promote mental focus. We love all the flavors! Amount of caffeine: 180 mg.
Gorgie
With just the right amount of flavor and fizz, we can’t get enough of Gorgie. Each can is packed with L-theanine, biotin, B vitamins, and no sugar. Amount of caffeine: 150 mg.
The MatchaBar Hustle
Featuring matcha as its caffeine source, this drink provides pure energy with the added benefit of L-theanine. Amount of caffeine: 120 mg.
Drink OCA
A plant-based energy drink powered by tapioca (an extract from the cassava root), you’ll get the boost you need without the crash. Amount of caffeine: 120 mg.
Zevia Energy
Sweet with stevia, Zevia provides energy without the calories and caffeine found in coffee beans. All eight flavors are delicious! Amount of caffeine: 120 mg.
GuayakÃ
New to yerba mate? This is a traditional South American drink with natural caffeine and antioxidants. Each can deliver continuous power without jitters. Amount of caffeine: 120 mg.
Clear the Cause
Speaking of yerba mate, this ingredient provides Clean Cause with 160 mg of caffeine per can. From sparkling options to non-carbonated cans, there’s a flavor (and texture) for every craving. Amount of caffeine: 160 mg.
Marquis
A sugar-free, sparkling blend of vitamins and antioxidants? We are stuck. Combined with the perfect amount of organic caffeine, this drink is what your pre-workout ritual has been missing. Amount of caffeine: 100 mg.
DIY Healthy Energy Drink Alternatives
Prefer to make your own energy drink? We have it for you. This homemade drink provides natural energy from green tea and honey, while lemon and sea salt help with hydration.
Green Tea Energy Drink
- 1 cup green tea (cold)
- 1 spoon of honey or liquid monk fruit
- 1 lemon, juice
- A pinch of high-quality sea salt (electrolytes)
- Ice cubes
Mix all the ingredients and enjoy! You can make this ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
Are clean energy drinks worth the effort?
If you want fast, efficient, and clean energy, the answer is sound yes. These enhanced drinks offer a balance of natural ingredients, low sugar, and functional benefits that support sustained energy without the downsides of traditional energy drinks. Happy kissing!