Are Sugar Free Energy Drinks as Effective?
In today's fast-paced world, it's no wonder that energy drinks have become so popular. They promise to give you the boost you need to make it through your day. But not all energy drinks are really the same. While some are loaded with sugar and empty calories, others are sugar free. So, which is better for you? Let's take a look at the benefits of sugar free energy drinks.
What are Sugar Free Energy Drinks?
Sugar free energy drinks are exactly what they sound like—drinks that contain no sugar. Instead, they usually rely on artificial sweeteners to give them flavor. While there are some energy drinks on the market that use natural sweeteners like stevia, most use artificial sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose. This is beneficial because it means that sugar free drinks tend to have fewer calories than their sugary counterparts.
Effectiveness Of Sugar Free Drinks
Sugar free drinks are just as effective as their sugary counterparts when it comes to providing a boost of energy. That's because it's not the sugar that provides the energy, it's the caffeine. Caffeine is a stimulant, which means that it increases alertness and wakefulness. It works by blocking adenosine, which is the neurotransmitter in your brain that makes you feel tired. This is why you might feel more awake after drinking an energy drink. In fact, sugar free versions of energy drinks often have more caffeine than regular energy drinks. So, if you're looking for an extra boost of energy without extra calories, sugar free energy might be the way to go.
Side Effects Of Sugar Free Energy Drinks
While energy drinks are generally safe, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. Because they contain caffeine, energy drinks can cause insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. They can also cause an upset stomach and increased urination. If you're sensitive to caffeine, energy drinks should probably be avoided overall.
Caffeine Levels of Different Types of Energy Drinks
While all energy drinks contain caffeine, the amount varies from drink to drink. For example, Red Bull contains 80 mg of caffeine per 8 oz can while Monster Energy contains 160 mg per 16 oz can. To put that in perspective, a cup of coffee typically contains 95 mg of caffeine. So, if you're looking for a real jolt, an energy drink is probably your best bet.
Sugar Levels
As we mentioned before, one of the biggest differences between regular and sugar free energy drinks is the sugar content. A 12 oz can of Red Bull has 27 grams of sugar while a 12 oz can of Monster Energy has 54 grams of sugar—more than twice as much! And those grams add up quickly. Just one can of Monster Energy contains more than 10% of the daily recommended intake of sugar for adults. Yikes!
Comparison to Sugary Drinks
So, which is better for you? A regular energy drink or their sugar free counterparts? When you compare them side by side, it's really no contest. Sugar free energy drinks are lower in calories and higher in caffeine—two things that are important when it comes to an effective energy drink. Plus, they don't contribute to tooth decay like sugary drinks do. So, if you're looking for an energizing pick-me-up, reach for a sugar free option next time. Your body will thank you!