NUTRITION

The 5 Best Natural Energy Drinks of 2024, Tested

By Emma ParkerUpdated on Dec 5, 2024

Boost your energy levels naturally with these top-rated drinks that combine effective ingredients with great taste:

Celsius Live Fit Energy Drink

5.0

Natural caffeine from green tea and guarana
Essential vitamins: B6, B12, C
No artificial preservatives or flavors
Zero sugar, low-calorie
Available in multiple refreshing flavors

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Celsius Live Fit provides a clean energy boost with natural ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks.

Pros & Cons

Natural caffeine sources

No artificial additives

Supports metabolism

Contains sucralose

Guayaki Yerba Mate

4.9

150 mg of caffeine from yerba mate leaves
Rich in antioxidants and amino acids
Organic and sustainably sourced
Gluten-free and non-GMO
Flavors like Lemon Elation and Enlighten Mint

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Guayaki Yerba Mate provides a smooth, sustained energy lift with additional health benefits from antioxidants.

Pros & Cons

Organic ingredients

Sustainable sourcing

Nutrient-rich

Earthy taste may not suit all palates

Zevia Zero Calorie Energy Drink

4.8

120 mg of natural caffeine
Sweetened with stevia; zero sugar
No artificial colors or flavors
Non-GMO Project Verified
Variety of flavors including Mango Ginger and Raspberry Lime

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

Zevia offers a guilt-free energy boost with zero calories and natural sweeteners, perfect for those avoiding sugar.

Pros & Cons

Zero calories

Naturally sweetened

No artificial ingredients

Stevia taste may not appeal to everyone

V8 +Energy

4.7

80 mg of caffeine from green tea
Blended with vegetable and fruit juices
No added sugar; 50 calories per can
Non-GMO and gluten-free
Flavors include Pomegranate Blueberry and Peach Mango

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

V8 +Energy combines natural caffeine with the nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables, offering a balanced energy boost.

Pros & Cons

Contains fruit and vegetable juices

Low calorie

No added sugar

Lower caffeine content may be insufficient for some

MatchaBar Hustle Matcha Energy

4.5

120 mg of caffeine from ceremonial grade matcha
L-theanine for focused energy
Lightly sweetened with organic cane sugar
Non-GMO and gluten-free
Flavors like Mint and Lemon Lime

On Amazon

Why We Recommend It

MatchaBar Hustle combines the benefits of matcha with convenience, offering a balanced energy boost with added focus.

Pros & Cons

High-quality matcha

Contains L-theanine

Refreshing flavors

Contains added sugars

Choosing natural energy drinks can provide the boost you need without the drawbacks of artificial ingredients. Consider your caffeine tolerance and flavor preferences to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

What Are Natural Energy Drinks?

Natural energy drinks are beverages made with plant-based, unprocessed, or minimally processed ingredients designed to provide a clean energy boost. Unlike traditional energy drinks, they avoid artificial additives, synthetic caffeine, and excessive sugars, focusing instead on natural sources of energy.

Common ingredients in natural energy drinks include:

Natural Caffeine: Found in green tea, guarana, or yerba mate for a sustained energy boost.
Vitamins and Minerals: Ingredients like B vitamins and magnesium to support energy metabolism.
Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha or ginseng to enhance focus and reduce fatigue.
Electrolytes: Coconut water or sea salt for hydration.

Natural energy drinks are a healthier alternative for those looking to stay energized while avoiding artificial ingredients and crashes. They’re perfect for workouts, busy workdays, or as a coffee replacement.

How Are Natural Energy Drinks Different from Regular Energy Drinks?

Natural energy drinks differ from regular energy drinks in their ingredients, health impact, and overall approach to boosting energy. Here’s a breakdown:

Ingredients

Natural Energy Drinks: Use plant-based, minimally processed ingredients like green tea, yerba mate, coconut water, or adaptogenic herbs.
Regular Energy Drinks: Often rely on synthetic caffeine, artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and high-fructose corn syrup.

Health Impact

Natural Energy Drinks: Provide a steady energy boost without the jitters or crashes, thanks to natural caffeine and balanced nutrients.
Regular Energy Drinks: Can cause energy spikes followed by crashes due to high sugar content and synthetic stimulants.

Additives

Natural Energy Drinks: Free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Regular Energy Drinks: Often include chemical additives for flavor and extended shelf life.

Purpose

Natural Energy Drinks: Focus on clean, sustained energy with added health benefits like hydration and stress reduction.
Regular Energy Drinks: Primarily aim to deliver a quick, intense burst of energy.

Natural energy drinks are a healthier choice for long-lasting energy and overall wellness, making them ideal for those who prioritize clean ingredients and balanced energy.

What Ingredients Are Commonly Found in Natural Energy Drinks?

Natural energy drinks are crafted with plant-based and minimally processed ingredients to provide a clean and sustainable energy boost. Here are some common ingredients you’ll find:

Natural Caffeine Sources

Green tea, yerba mate, or guarana provide a smooth, steady energy boost without the jitters.

Adaptogens

Herbs like ashwagandha, ginseng, or rhodiola reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance endurance.

Vitamins and Minerals

B vitamins support energy metabolism, while magnesium and potassium aid in hydration and muscle function.

Electrolytes

Coconut water or sea salt help replenish electrolytes for sustained energy and hydration.

Natural Sweeteners

Honey, agave, stevia, or fruit juices add sweetness without excessive sugar.

Superfoods

Ingredients like matcha, acai, or spirulina provide antioxidants and other health benefits.

Natural energy drinks are a great option for those seeking a balanced and healthier alternative to traditional energy beverages. They deliver clean energy while supporting overall well-being.

Are Natural Energy Drinks Healthy?

Yes, natural energy drinks can be a healthier alternative to traditional energy beverages when consumed in moderation. Here’s why:

Clean Ingredients
Natural energy drinks are made with plant-based, minimally processed ingredients like green tea, yerba mate, or coconut water, avoiding artificial additives and preservatives.
Balanced Energy Boost
They often contain natural sources of caffeine and adaptogens, providing a steady energy boost without the jitters or crashes associated with synthetic stimulants.
Added Nutritional Benefits
Many natural energy drinks include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support energy metabolism and overall health.
Lower Sugar Content
Most natural options use low-glycemic or no-calorie sweeteners like stevia, honey, or agave, reducing the risk of sugar spikes and crashes.

However, it’s important to read labels carefully, as not all products are created equal. Look for drinks with minimal sugar, natural caffeine, and no artificial ingredients for the healthiest choice. As with any beverage, moderation is key to maintaining balance and overall health.

What Are the Benefits of Natural Energy Drinks?

Natural energy drinks offer a clean, health-conscious way to boost energy and focus. Here are the key benefits:

Sustained Energy Boost
Natural caffeine sources like green tea and yerba mate provide steady, long-lasting energy without the jitters or crashes associated with synthetic stimulants.
Improved Focus and Clarity
Ingredients like adaptogens (e.g., ashwagandha, ginseng) enhance mental clarity and reduce stress, improving cognitive performance.
Rich in Nutrients
Many natural energy drinks include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support energy metabolism, immunity, and overall health.
Hydration Support
With ingredients like coconut water and electrolytes, these drinks keep you hydrated while energizing your body.
Low in Sugar and Additives
Most natural energy drinks use healthier sweeteners like stevia or honey and avoid artificial preservatives, making them a cleaner alternative.
Versatility
Perfect for workouts, workdays, or a midday pick-me-up, they cater to a variety of energy needs.