Energy drinks come in many brands with different ingredients, but some features are constant, namely caffeine, sugar, and calories. Most energy drinks can have high amounts of sugar and calories, which is pretty unhealthy if you’re consuming them regularly.
Fortunately, zero-calorie energy drinks are widely available in most places. They’re marketed toward the health-conscious, gym enthusiasts, and high-performers.
Zero-calorie energy drinks have no calories at all, yet can boost your alertness and exercise performance all the same. They’re great options if you’re on diet, or have a consistent workout routine.
If you’re interested to find out more on zero-calorie energy drinks, read on for a detailed discussion on how they’re better for your health and which brands check out all the boxes.
Let’s get started…
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What Should You Look For In A Zero-Calorie Energy Drink?
Calories
For zero-calorie energy drinks, the first thing that you should be focusing on is the calorie content.
Some energy drinks can contain lots of sugar, which leads to a high-calorie content. While these drinks are tasty, they’re not healthy and can lead to weight gain in the long term.
Plus, the recommended daily calorie intake is 2,500 calories and 2,000 calories for men and women respectively. Thus, it’s definitely a wise decision to go for zero-calorie energy drinks to maintain a healthy calorie intake.
The best way you can identify a zero-calorie energy drink is to check its nutritional label on the can.
Caffeine Content
Caffeine is an important ingredient in energy drinks as it contributes to higher cognitive health and physical performance.
The amount of caffeine you will need depends on your tolerance towards caffeine. So, before buying a zero-calorie energy drink, make sure that you know your limits with caffeine.
However, keep in mind that an energy drink with a high caffeine content won’t necessarily be more effective.
For reference, the FDA approves a daily caffeine intake of 400mg of caffeine for healthy adults. If you consume more than this amount, you may experience side effects like:
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Anxiety
- Dehydration
- Restlessness
- Rapid heart rate
Make sure to consume caffeine in moderation and choose an energy drink with a suitable caffeine content that aligns with your tolerance.
Artificial Sweeteners
Most zero-calorie energy drinks contain artificial sweeteners. The most popular artificial sweeteners are Sucralose and Acesulfame-K.
Sucralose and Acesulfame-K are zero-calorie sweeteners that are used to enhance the flavor of food products without sugar. They’re approved for use by the FDA and are safe for consumption.
They’re also pretty sweet and can help satisfy your sweet tooth without the unnecessary calories. However, considering that we don’t know much about their long-term side effects, it’s best to consume them in moderation.
What is the healthiest caffeine?
The healthiest sources of caffeine are those that are low in added sugars and artificial additives. Examples of healthy caffeine sources include black coffee or tea without added sugar, plain sparkling water with natural caffeine, and unsweetened plant-based milk alternatives.
For example, black coffee or tea without added sugar, or plain sparkling water with a small amount of natural caffeine, are healthier options. Additionally, consuming caffeine in moderation and staying within recommended daily limits is important for maintaining a healthy caffeine intake.
Do Zero-Calorie Energy Drinks Help You Lose Weight?
Zero-calorie energy drinks will not make you lose weight unless you have a proper exercise and diet plan.
But, zero-calorie energy drinks can play a role in your weight loss program by supplying you with energy for your exercise sessions.
The caffeine in zero-calorie energy drinks can boost your energy levels and metabolism, as well as improve fat-burning while you work out.
For more effective results, you have to make sure to consume fewer calories than the ones you burn off.
In short, zero-calorie energy drinks can boost weight loss efforts but most of it requires your own discipline in following your routine.
In short, zero-calorie energy drinks can boost weight loss efforts but most of it requires your own discipline in following your routine.
Are there energy drinks without sugar?
There are several sugar-free energy drinks on the market. These beverages are formulated without added sugars and often use artificial sweeteners or natural zero-calorie sweeteners like stevia or erythritol to provide sweetness without the extra calories. These drinks contain zero sugar.
Sugar-free energy drinks are a popular choice for individuals who want to avoid the potential negative effects of consuming too much sugar while still seeking the energizing benefits of caffeine and other ingredients found in energy drinks.
Are there 0 calorie energy drinks?
There are energy drinks available that are labeled as “zero calorie” or “0 calorie.” These beverages are formulated to contain no calories, meaning they do not contribute to your daily caloric intake when consumed. However, there are still ingredients present in these drinks.
Zero-calorie energy drinks are often sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose, or stevia, to provide sweetness without adding calories. These drinks are popular among individuals who are calorie-conscious or looking to reduce their overall calorie intake.
Do Zero-Calorie Energy Drinks Make You Gain Weight?
Drinking zero-calorie energy drinks won’t make you gain weight.
Zero-calorie energy drinks have no calories at all. So, you won’t easily gain weight from drinking them.
However, if you have these drinks while consuming other high-calorie foods and beverages, you’ll eventually rack up a few pounds over time.
Are Zero-Calorie Energy Drinks Healthy?
Zero-calorie energy drinks are not always healthy. While zero-calorie energy drinks seem like a healthier option than their sugary counterparts, they still contain caffeine and artificial additives that may have negative health effects if consumed in excess. Sometimes, consumption to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and risk of heart disease.
It’s important to remember that moderation is key when it comes to consuming any type of energy drink. If you choose to consume zero-calorie energy drinks, be sure to read the labels and choose options that are free from artificial additives.
Are Zero-Calorie Energy Drinks Bad For Your Health?
Zero-calorie energy drinks aren’t bad for your health if you don’t have any health problems and consume them in moderation.
Zero-calorie energy drinks are like regular energy drinks without sugar or calories. They’re healthier in the meantime as they won’t lead to sugar crashes or potential adverse effects like diabetes and weight gain.
If you drink them in moderate amounts, zero-calorie energy drinks won’t harm your health in any way.
For more information on healthy zero-calorie energy drinks, check out the video below:
Best Zero-Calorie Energy Drinks
| Energy Drinks | Calories | Caffeine | Sugar |
| Red Bull Total Zero | 0 | 80mg | 0g |
| Monster Zero Ultra | 0 | 140mg | 0g |
| Adrenaline Shoc | 0 | 300mg | 0g |
| Bang Energy | 0 | 300mg | 0g |
| Xtend | 0 | 125mg | 0g |
| Aspire | 0 | 80mg | 0g |
| C4 Energy | 0 | 200mg | 0g |
| Xyience | 0 | 175mg | 0g |
| Reign | 0 | 300mg | 0g |
| Emerge Sugar-Free | 2 | 75mg | 0g |
Red Bull Total Zero
Red Bull Total Zero is basically the classic Red Bull we all love and adore but without the unnecessary calories and sugar.
A single can of Red Bull Total Zero contains 80mg of caffeine, with a few vitamins and amino acids. The zero-calorie nature of Red Bull Total Zero would make it a great option if you’re on a diet.
If you want to know how Red Bull tastes and works, check out my review on Red Bull for my experience and thoughts on the drink.
Monster Zero Ultra
Monster Zero Ultra maintains the same taste and benefits as the Original Monster with better benefits for your health.
Each can of Monster Zero Ultra is completely calorie-free and contains 140mg of caffeine, along with some amino acids and vitamins.
If you’re a fan of Monster but prefer something with fewer calories and sugar, Monster Zero Ultra is perhaps your best option.
To know if it’s okay to have Monster daily, check out the article I’ve written on whether it’s okay to drink Monster every day for a detailed explanation.
Adrenaline Shoc
As a high-performance energy drink, Adrenaline Shoc strives to improve your energy levels, cognitive health, and physical endurance.
A 16 fl. oz can of Adrenaline Shoc has 300mg of caffeine, along with plenty of amino acids, vitamins, and electrolytes. Adrenaline Shoc would be a great complement to your workout routine as it can provide you with a stronger boost.
Plus, without any calories, Adrenaline Shoc would also complement your meals well if you’re on a diet.
If you want to know how well Adrenaline Shoc works, check out my article on whether Adrenaline Shoc really works for an in-depth discussion.
Bang Energy
Bang is one of the biggest names in the energy drink market, well-known among high-performers and gym enthusiasts.
A single can of Bang is calorie-free and has 300mg of caffeine, with a generous serving of electrolytes, vitamins and amino acids like BCAAs.
Bang has a high caffeine content, which might put you off the first time you see it. Rest assured, as it’s still within the normal range of caffeine an adult can consume in a day.
Want to get your own Bang? Check out some great spots and sites in my article on where to purchase Bang Energy.
Xtend
Xtend is an energy drink geared at the health enthusiasts and high-performers. It aims to boost performance and health with its potent mix of caffeine, amino acids and vitamins.
Xtend Energy is packed with beneficial ingredients for muscle growth, repair, and recoveries like BCAAs, electrolytes, and taurine.
It comes in two options, Xtend On-The-Go and Xtend Carbonated. The difference between the two is that Xtend Carbonated is caffeine-free.
Xtend On-The-Go contains 125mg of caffeine, which is a decent amount to get you going for your workouts and other tasks.
Aspire
With its active blend of energy-boosting ingredients, Aspire is a health-focused energy drink that aspires to boost exercise and cognitive performance.
From its natural caffeine content of 80mg, Aspire is loaded with nutrients like ginger root, L-Carnitine, and Vitamin C for better performance.
If you’re looking for something healthy to complement your diet, Aspire might be a good choice.
To know what Aspire tastes like and if it works, check out my review on Aspire Energy.
C4 Energy
Made by a well-known sports nutrition company, C4 Energy comes forward with is energizing ingredient profile and potential benefits.
Each can of C4 Energy has 200mg of caffeine, along with plenty of amino acids and health-boosting vitamins.
With all its caffeine and nutrients, C4 is an energy drink you’ll want to include in your diet and lifestyle for an excellent boost of energy.
If you’d like to know more, check out my review on C4 Energy Drink.
Xyience
Focused on boosting your physical reflexes, mental alertness and concentration, Xyience is the zero-calorie energy drink you’d want to fulfill your energy needs.
A 16 fl. oz can of Xyience contains 175mg of caffeine, along with a bunch of amino acids and vitamins.
While it has a pretty small flavor range, you can expect a decent boost fortified with plenty of vitamins and refreshing nutrients.
Reign
Alongside Bang, Reign is another highly caffeinated energy drink geared to improve vigilance, cognition and stamina.
A single can of Reign has 300mg of caffeine, along with a generous mix of vitamins, electrolytes and amino acids.
Marketed as a total body fuel energy drink, Reign would surely impress you with its incredible energy boost and benefits as well as line-up of flavors.
To know whether Reign or coffee is better, check out the article I’ve written on Reign VS Coffee for an interesting comparison.
Emerge Sugar-Free
A hit energy drink from the UK, Emerge is a rich fruit-flavored carbonated beverage with some amino acids and vitamins.
Its sugar-free option, Emerge Sugar-Free has an ideal caffeine content of 75mg and a meager 2 calories.
With its low calorie and caffeine content, Emerge is a great option to consider if you’re on a diet or working out.
Final Thoughts
Zero-calorie energy drinks are great alternatives to regular energy drinks, especially if you drink them consistently.
Without the additional calories or sugar, they’re much healthier and provide a cleaner boost to improve performance.
Zero-calorie energy drinks can be beneficial if you are on a diet or are generally health-conscious. They won’t lead to weight gain, instead they can contribute to your weight loss journey.
Still, zero-calorie energy drinks contain caffeine, so make sure to consume them in moderation.
Thus, if you’re looking for something to change your energy drink selection, go for a zero-calorie energy drink and see the difference.