Energy drinks are often marketed as quick solutions for boosting alertness and performance, but many contain dangerous artificial sweeteners including sucralose, aspartame and acesulfame potassium, which pose short term and long term potential health risks. These artificial sweeteners are added to reduce calories but can have undesirable effects on the body.

If you’d like to jump into the research about sucralose (it is the generic name for the blockbuster hit Splenda), aspartame (Equal, Nutrasweet), acesulfame potassium (Sweet One) or other artificial sweeteners, one of our favorite places to learn more is the website GreenMedInfo.com.

The Risks of Artificial Sweeteners

1. Sucralose - Though marketed as a safe alternative sweetener that famously has been derived from sugar itself, studies suggest that sucralose can alter the gut microbiome, leading to digestive issues and even metabolic problems. It has been associated with increased inflammation, neurological hypersensitivities and insulin resistance, which could increase the risk of metabolic disorders over time. Additionally, when sucralose is heated (such as in energy drinks stored in warm environments), it can break down into potentially harmful compounds.

 2. Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K) - Another common artificial sweetener, Ace-K has been linked to potential disruptions in brain function and increased oxidative stress. It may interfere with how the body regulates appetite and blood sugar, leading to weight gain and increased cravings for sweets, potentially worsening metabolic health.

 Side Effects of Artificial Sweeteners

This is a long and growing list and includes but is not limited to the following;

- Gut Health Disturbances - Artificial sweeteners, especially sucralose, can lead to diarrhea, bloating and a disruption of gut bacteria balance which is crucial for overall health, immunity, neurotransmitter production and digestion.

- Headaches, Migraines and Other Neurological Troubles - Some people report headaches or migraines and anxiety attacks as a result of consuming sucralose and Ace-K.  Others say dizziness, trouble sleeping, focusing or relaxing and even as far as permanent nerve damage were experienced.

- Metabolic Disruption - These sweeteners have been shown to interfere with the body's ability to regulate glucose, potentially increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.  More reports are linked to toxic kidneys, hypothyroidism, livery toxicity, cancer, skin irritations, autoimmune diseases,

- Cardiovascular and Respiratory Struggles – Side effects including a racing heart, a heartbeat that is too slow, breathing troubles, elevated or dysregulated blood pressure.

 Safer Alternatives for Energy Boosts

To avoid these health risks, consider choosing energy drinks that use natural sweeteners or alternative ingredients known for providing a cleaner, safer energy boost:

 1. Stevia - A natural, plant-derived sweetener, stevia does not impact blood sugar levels and is considered safe for most people. It’s a healthier alternative to artificial sweeteners for energy drinks.

 2. Monk Fruit Extract - Another natural sweetener, monk fruit is highly potent, calorie-free, and provides sweetness without the negative health impacts of artificial sweeteners. It’s a great choice for those looking to avoid sugar but still want a sweet flavor.  It also goes by the name Lo Han, so read those ingredient lists!

 3. Coconut Water - Many energy drinks are now incorporating coconut water as a base. It’s rich in electrolytes and provides a mild energy boost without added chemicals or sweeteners.  For more information about the best and cleanest versions of coconut water, here is a great read from Food Babe.

 4. Herbal Additives - Look for energy drinks containing natural adaptogens and herbs like ginseng, rhodiola, or ashwagandha. These herbs help to support energy levels, reduce fatigue, and improve focus without artificial stimulants.  L-theanine is another addition than many companies are using to counter the stimulation of caffeine, acting instead to take away the jittery feeling and calm the racing thoughts many can experience.

 5. Caffeine from Natural Sources - Instead of synthetic caffeine, opt for drinks that source their caffeine from matcha, green tea extract, yerba mate, or coffee fruit or coffee berry which provide a more balanced and sustained energy release.

 By making these healthier choices, you can avoid the potential risks associated with artificial sweeteners and still enjoy a natural, sustainable boost of energy to help you power through your day.

 Brands of Energy Drinks with “Cleaner Ingredients”

Each of the brands listed below are not perfect in one way or another.  Some use maltodextrin, or artificial flavors or coloring.  However, we like to include these drinks on our list of “Junk Food for Healthy People,” a better but not perfect alternative to the others on the shelf.  Let us know if we missed one of your favorites!

Kill Cliff

Jocko

Sunshine

Zevia

Scheckter’s

FitAid

Odyssey 222

Guru Lite

EBOOST

Sol

Sambazon

Marquis

Yerbae

CLEAN Cause

Izze Sparkling Juice

Proper Wild

Runa

Gorgie

Guayaki Yerba Mate

Matchabar

Ethans

 

If you’re experiencing the side effects listed above, you can always reach out to LIFEstrength Health Center in Naples, FL for a FREE 15 minute consultation with Coach Cason or Dr. Cade by calling 239-775-5433 or emailing Staff@LIFEstrengthHealthCenter.com.