Stimulants have been an ingredient in commercial beverages since at least the 1880s, which is when Coca-Cola debuted its one-two punch of both coca leaves (from which cocaine is derived) and kola nuts (a source of caffeine). Modern energy drinks rely primarily on caffeine and a few other ingredients to offer consumers a boost in daily routines ranging from job performance to gym workouts. While there is debate over the health effects of imbibing too many energy drinks too often, there is no doubt that many people find them an invigorating part of everyday life. If you are searching for a kicker in a can, think about these traits before deciding whether an energy drink is right for you.
Early versions of modern energy drinks were heavy on sugar. Newer iterations of the same brands feature sugar-free drinks that offer the same pick-me-up without all the excess sucrose.
Besides lower sugar content, it’s now possible to enjoy your energy drink without adding a lot of calories. Just beware that achieving a zero-calorie drink that still has a pleasing taste may mean artificial sweeteners. If you have a known reaction to such products, study the ingredients carefully. And always enjoy in moderation!
As energy drinks have become more popular over the years, so has the demand for products that taste good. Lightly carbonated versions with a hint of citrus or other fruit flavors help those 12 fluid ounces of super-stoked goodness go down a little smoother than they used to.
