8 Best Natural Energy Drinks of 2022, According to a Dietitian

Many people rely on energy drinks for a much-needed pick-me-up to power them through the day.

But most popular energy drinks are loaded with added sugar — many with even more than a soda. Some also contain artificial colors and sweeteners, which you may prefer to avoid, and pack large amounts of caffeine, which may leave you feeling jittery, anxious, or agitated.

Note that both the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the European Food Safety Authority consider a daily intake of up to 400 mg of caffeine to be safe.

All the same, several brands make healthy, naturally derived energy drinks that can give you the boost you’re looking for without the side effects.

Sound Sparkling Organic Yerba Maté with Citrus and Hibiscus

Sound makes refreshing beverages that are naturally sweetened with botanical extracts.

Although not advertised as an energy drink, its Sparkling Organic Yerba Maté contains 70 mg of caffeine from yerba mate, white tea, and green tea to give you an energy boost.

In one study, yerba mate improved exercise performance without changing participants’ rate of perceived exertion. It’s thought to have helped them accomplish more with the same amount of effort.

Yerba mate tea is made from the leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a tree native to South America. It’s a concentrated source of caffeine.

This beverage is flavored with extracts of hibiscus, lemon, and lime, which give it a delightful citrusy taste without any added sugar.

Each 12-ounce (355-mL) bottle provides:

• Calories: 0
• Caffeine: 70 mg

Guayaki Unsweetened Yerba Maté

Studies suggest that yerba mate may help improve energy, focus, exercise performance, and concentration, making it a great ingredient for a natural energy boost.

Guayaki Unsweetened Yerba Maté is organic and contains less than 1 gram of naturally occurring sugar.

Each 16-ounce (473-mL) bottle provides:

• Calories: 5
• Caffeine: 140 mg