For many, the quest for an energy boost often leads to caffeine consumption. Whether it’s coffee or energy drinks, people have their preferences based on various factors. Understanding how these options compare can help you make informed choices about your daily consumption.
Meet the experts: Samantha Peterson, M.S., R.D.N., a functional medicine dietitian and founder of Simply Wellness; Amy Davis, R.D., L.D.N., a registered dietitian based in New Orleans, LA.
In this article, dietitians shed light on the distinctions between coffee and energy drinks, highlighting which option may be more beneficial for your lifestyle.
Coffee vs. energy drinks: Key differences
“Coffee and energy drinks serve as popular solutions for fighting fatigue, but they are not interchangeable,” notes Samantha Peterson, M.S., R.D.N., a functional medicine dietitian and founder of Simply Wellness. Here’s how they compare across several key aspects.
Caffeine
Coffee and energy drinks both use caffeine to deliver an invigorating lift. A typical cup of brewed coffee contains around 96 milligrams (mg) of caffeine per eight ounces, according to the Mayo Clinic, while the caffeine content in energy drinks varies widely. Therefore, energy drinks are often better suited for those who are accustomed to caffeine. Peterson remarks, “Energy drinks may be more appropriate for individuals who are caffeine-tolerant, not susceptible to anxiety, and conscious of their consumption timing.” However, she points out that energy drinks can lead to sleep disturbances and nervous system overload, particularly if consumed later in the day. It’s worth noting that energy drinks might not be safe for certain individuals, and exceeding the recommended serving size may present various side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider if experiencing extreme fatigue or if you have underlying conditions that caffeine may affect.
Additional ingredients and nutrients
Beyond caffeine, coffee and energy drinks can significantly differ in composition. “Coffee is rich in naturally occurring compounds, such as antioxidants, that promote overall health in addition to providing stimulation,” explains Peterson. The antioxidants, particularly polyphenols found in coffee, have been associated with various health benefits such as increasing longevity, improving heart health, and potentially lowering the risk of certain cancers, among other advantages. Additionally, Peterson notes that plain black coffee lacks the added sugars, artificial sweeteners, flavoring agents, and other additives often present in energy drinks.
The variability in ingredients and brand formulations makes the effects of energy drinks less predictable. Peterson states, “Most individuals are familiar with how their body responds to coffee, while energy drinks can feel more intense or erratic.” For those seeking focus and alertness without the risk of overstimulation, coffee generally serves as the more reliable option.
Price and convenience
Brewed coffee is generally more cost-effective than purchasing individual energy drinks, according to Amy Davis, R.D., L.D.N., a New Orleans-based registered dietitian. If digestive issues hinder your routine, an energy drink may offer a more convenient alternative. “Individuals sensitive to coffee’s acidity or digestive effects may find a low-acid, mildly caffeinated energy drink easier to digest,” Peterson adds.
What to consider in an energy drink
The experts agree that there are scenarios where choosing an energy drink may be appropriate, but it’s crucial to approach your selection with care. If you have any underlying health concerns, consulting your physician is advisable before incorporating an energy drink into your regimen. “Generally speaking, not all energy drinks are created equal,” says Davis. When selecting an energy drink, she recommends considering the following:
- Less than 10 grams of added sugar
- No artificial sweeteners
- 150 mg of caffeine or less
- Functional ingredients like B vitamins, electrolytes, or L-theanine
“Some options made with naturally caffeinated ingredients, such as yerba mate or tea-based sources, can provide a smoother, more sustained lift compared to highly processed energy drinks,” Peterson notes. “These tend to supply more stable energy without abrupt spikes and crashes.” Lastly, an energy drink with a shorter ingredient list is generally preferable.
Coffee vs. energy drinks: Which is better for you?
“Overall, coffee is typically a healthier everyday option,” says Davis. “It offers a gentler energy boost along with antioxidants like polyphenols and contains far fewer additives.” Both Davis and Peterson agree that coffee is a more suitable daily choice, while energy drinks may serve as an occasional option when a higher boost is necessary.
“Ultimately, the best choice is the one that facilitates steady energy, clear focus, and good sleep, without causing dependency or crashes,” Peterson emphasizes. “If a drink consistently leaves you feeling jittery, anxious, or exhausted later, it’s likely not beneficial, regardless of the caffeine source.”
Key Takeaways
- Coffee offers a more stable energy boost with additional health benefits.
- Energy drinks can be less predictable due to varying ingredients.
- Consider caffeine tolerance and timing when selecting beverages.
- Always check ingredient lists for sugars and additives when choosing energy drinks.
- Consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions before consuming energy drinks.
FAQ
Is coffee better for you than energy drinks?
Generally, coffee is considered a healthier everyday choice due to its stability and health benefits.
What should I look for in an energy drink?
Choose energy drinks with fewer than 10 grams of sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and 150 mg of caffeine or less.
Can energy drinks affect sleep?
Yes, energy drinks can disrupt sleep, especially if consumed later in the day due to their caffeine content.
Are there any healthier alternatives to energy drinks?
Options made with naturally caffeinated ingredients like yerba mate can provide a smoother energy lift.
