The 7 Best Healthy Energy Drinks

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Energy drinks have earned a bad rap in recent years as many mainstream brands are loaded with unwanted ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors. Additionally, many brands dump sugar into their blends to produce a quick energy boost, even consuming excessive quantities of added sugar is not recommended by health experts. 

However, energizing yourself doesn’t have to come with these unwanted consequences. Consumers now have a wide variety of options when it comes to naturally sourced caffeinated beverages, and with the rise of adaptogens and other natural ingredients, energy drinks are nourishing the whole body, not just energy levels.

What are the best healthy energy drinks?

Best Overall Energy Drink: SUPER FUEL by EBOOST

With electrolytes for hydration and antioxidants for a speedy post-workout recovery, SUPER FUEL is one of the market’s top-rated energy drinks. Made with natural caffeine from green coffee beans and green tea leaf extract, SUPER FUEL energy drinks have no artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors while remaining low in sugar but high in nutrients like Vitamin B12 and trace elements such as chromium which may help control your body’s glucose levels.

Best Energy Drink with Vitamins: Karma Energy Water by Karma Water

Karma Energy Water is both delicious and easy to use thanks to its patented push cap which, with the press of a finger, dispenses a nutrient-packed powder that both energizes (with yerba mate extract) and fuels your body. One bottle provides 100% of your daily value of an assortment of nutrients including vitamins C, B6, and B12 as well as biotin, niacin, and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). If you’re not big into the single-use bottle, Karma also offers build-your-own hydration kits with a reusable bottle.

Best Healthy Energy Drink without Caffeine: Red Juice by Organifi

Believe it or not, not all energy drinks have to include caffeine. Made with adaptogens that steady your mood and energy levels, this “red juice” won’t have you feeling jittery or exhausted after that afternoon crash. The included adaptogens are all-natural, sourced from a wide variety of plant-based sources such as red beet, Rhodiola, cordyceps, chaga mushrooms, and Siberian ginseng. As a bonus, each serving comes with 11% of your daily iron needs which is essential for avoiding iron deficiency. 

Best Energy Drink for a Calm Mind: Moment By Drink Moment

We all know that the coffee jitters are no fun, and thanks to drinks like Moment, we no longer have to worry about our hearts beating out of our chests. Moment energy drinks are also riding the adaptogen wave, focusing specifically on L-theanine (found in green tea) which may help with overall mood stabilization, and ashwagandha which may aid specifically in anxiety control. These drinks come in still and sparkling varieties and make great substitutes for your evening cocktail.

Best Energy Drink for Soda Lovers: Olipop Vintage Cola by Olipop

For those of us who get our caffeine from soda, Olipop’s Vintage Cola is a great alternative that is free from any artificial flavors or colorings (goodbye caramel coloring!) while also low in added sugars. At a lower caffeine point of 50g – all sourced naturally – this soda won’t have you hopped up while trying to focus. Additionally, Olipop provides 9g of prebiotic fibers to help keep your gut regular and productive, something that most energy drinks overlook.

Best Energy Shot: Clean All Day Energy Shots by Proper Wild

Ditch those anxiety-producing Five Hour Energy shots for Proper Wild Clean Energy shots which contain no artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors (Five Hour Energy can’t say the same). These little guys have zero added sugar yet still contain delicious flavors derived from fruit juice. Additionally, these shots contain 15x more L-Theanine than a traditional cup of green tea, so although you’re consuming caffeine, this combination promotes focus and alertness which is perfect for vigorous workouts and late study sessions alike.

Best Energy Drink Tablets: Nuun Energy by Nuun

These days, it can be hard to find energy drinks that don’t come in a wasteful, single-use plastic bottle. Thankfully, companies like Nuun sell effervescent tablets that easily dissolve in your favorite reusable water bottle. With only 2g of added sugar, these tablets contain 20mg of what’s known as Panax Ginseng. This adaptogen specifically aids in nervous system regulation which may help you feel calmer despite Nuun’s caffeine lift. Additionally, these tablets come in a variety of naturally-derived flavors and are both certified vegan and Kosher for those on the lookout.

Best Healthy Energy Drinks FAQ’s

What are the key differences between traditional energy drinks and healthy energy drinks for women?

Traditional energy drinks generally focus on a high caffeine and sugar content, designed to provide an immediate, often intense boost of energy. These can lead to a rapid spike in energy followed by a sharp crash and may contain ingredients that are not beneficial for long-term health. On the other hand, energy drinks tailored for women’s health often prioritize natural sources of caffeine, such as green tea, lower sugar content, and may include vitamins and minerals to support female-specific nutritional needs. They can also include ingredients that support hormone balance and stress reduction, addressing broader aspects of wellness beyond just a temporary energy surge.

How do healthy energy drinks contribute to increased energy levels without compromising health?

Healthy energy drinks contribute to increased energy levels by utilizing ingredients that offer a steadier release of energy. Instead of relying heavily on sugar, these beverages often contain complex carbohydrates, fiber, and proteins that provide a sustained energy release, preventing the dramatic spikes and crashes associated with traditional energy drinks. Additionally, the inclusion of B-vitamins, amino acids, and herbal extracts like ginseng or rhodiola can support metabolic processes and improve mental focus and physical endurance without adverse health effects. 

Are there any potential side effects or considerations that women should be aware of when consuming these drinks regularly?

While energy drinks tailored for women’s health are designed to be a healthier alternative, it is important to consider potential side effects of regular consumption. Overuse of such beverages can still lead to caffeine dependency and, in some cases, gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of alternative ingredients like herbal extracts. Furthermore, individuals with specific health conditions, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating these energy drinks into their routine. Even when formulated with women’s health in mind, moderation and awareness of one’s own body are essential to avoid possible adverse effects.

How can women incorporate healthy energy drinks into their fitness or wellness routines?

To seamlessly integrate healthy energy drinks into their fitness or wellness routines, women can consider consuming these beverages 15-30 minutes before engaging in workout sessions to optimize their performance and endurance. For those seeking a wellness boost during hectic days, a mid-morning or early afternoon serving can help maintain energy levels without disrupting sleep patterns. It’s also beneficial to pair these energy drinks with a balanced diet and adequate hydration to ensure they complement a holistic approach to health. Notably, keeping intake to a minimum, such as on days when extra energy is truly needed, can prevent the pitfalls of dependence and maximize the drinks’ benefits.

Can pregnant women or nursing mothers safely consume healthy energy drinks?

For pregnant women or nursing mothers, the safety of consuming “healthy” energy drinks is a contentious topic. It is paramount for individuals in these categories to proceed with caution and prioritize the advice of their healthcare providers. Given the potential for caffeine and other ingredients found in these beverages to cross the placental barrier or be transmitted through breast milk, there may be associated risks to the child’s health and development. Healthcare professionals often advise limiting caffeine intake during pregnancy and lactation to mitigate these risks. Therefore, while some energy drinks might be labeled as “healthy” or cater specifically to women’s nutritional needs, caution must always be observed by expectant and breastfeeding mothers.

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