8 Best Energy Drinks of 2022

The real secret to improved stamina and energy over the long run is quality sleep, optimal hydration (with good old H2O) and a balanced diet. But many turn to caffeine and energy drinks for a quick boost. For most, moderate intake — that’s a maximum of 400 mg of caffeine per day, according to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration — should be okay. But most energy drinks are also laden with food colorings, additives and exorbitant amounts of added sugar.

 Our experts say it’s important to check the caffeine content on the label so you can avoid more than 200 mg of caffeine per drink (the equivalent of two cups of coffee), especially if you are consuming other caffeinated beverages and foods during the day.

First and foremost, energy drinks are not recommended for children and adolescents and should be avoided as per the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Adults with caffeine sensitivity should avoid the consumption of energy drinks as well. Since high doses of caffeine may exacerbate cardiac conditions, individuals with a known history of heart disease should avoid energy drinks. Pregnant and breastfeeding woman should limit energy drink usage as well.

BEST STEVIA ENERGY DRINK-

Zero Calorie Energy Drink

Zevia, known for its tasty stevia-based soda alternatives, has brought its same sugar-free mentality to the energy drink space. ThisNon-GMO Project-verified pick has zero grams of sugar and offers 120 mg of organic caffeine per can. Each tropical flavor is refreshing, and the sweetness comes from organic stevia leaf extract. Free from artificial colors and preservatives, this health-conscious pick is one of our top choices.

Nutrition Facts (1 can): 0 calories, 0 g total fat, 0 mg sodium, 0 g total carbs, 0 g sugar, 0 g protein, 120 mg caffeine

BEST ORGANIC ENERGY DRINK-

Amazon Energy Drink

This antioxidant-rich energy drink comes in at just under 40 calories and 6 grams of sugar, but packs in 140% of your daily vitamin C needs. Our nutrition experts love the nourishing combo of acai berry and pomegranate and that this choice is USDA Organic. The 120 mg of caffeine come from green tea and yerba mate sources.

Nutrition Facts (1 can): 35 calories, 0 g total fat, 5 mg sodium, 17 g total carbohydrate, 6 g total sugars, 6 g added sugars, 1 g protein, 120 mg caffeine

BEST ENERGY DRINK FOR FOCUS-

FOCUSAID Clean Energy

This refreshing pick comes complete with a dose of energizing B vitamins. The boost of 10o mg of natural caffeine comes from green tea and yerba mate. The certified gluten-free option is certified vegan, too, and low in calories. Free from sucralose, this popular pick uses organic agave nectar and organic stevia leaf extract for the perfect amount of sweetness.

Nutrition Facts (1 can): 40 calories, 9 g total carbohydrates, 7 g total sugars, 7 g added sugars, 0 g protein, 100 mg caffeine

BEST ENERGY DRINK FOR WORKOUTS-

ZOA Zero Sugar Health Warrior Energy Drink

Created by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this energy drink with 160 mg caffeine from all-natural sources like green tea extract comes in a variety of tasty flavors. The completely sugar-free choice has only 15 calories and packs in 250 mg of branched chain amino acids. One can meets 100% of your daily vitamin C, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 needs too.

Nutrition Facts (1 can): 15 calories, 0 g total fat, 200 mg sodium, 3 g total carbohydrate, 0 g total sugars, 0 g added sugars, 0 g protein, 160 mg caffeine

BEST TASTING ENERGY DRINK-

Rowdy Energy Drink

Rowdy boasts 160 mg of caffeine from green tea per can and comes in a variety of unique flavors like blue raspberry, strawberry lemonade, cherry limeade and more. The sugar-free offering utilizes allulose, erythritol, monk fruit and stevia for sweetness. Plus, you’ll find L-Theanine, vitamin C and a variety of other electrolytes and minerals in each can.

Nutrition Facts (1 can): 5 calories, 0 g total fat, 50 mg sodium, 2 g total carb, 0 g total sugar, 9 g erythritol, 0 g protein, 160 mg caffeine