8 Best Energy Drinks of 2023, According to Dietitians

Our registered dietitians evaluated dozens of energy drinks, zoning in on added-sugar content, ingredient lists and caffeine sources. We selected picks with lower added-sugar counts and prioritized options with natural sources of caffeine as opposed to synthetic caffeine. Our pros say to limit consumption to no more than one can a day. Try to cap added sugar counts at 8 grams (the equivalent of 2 teaspoons of sugar) per can and do not mix energy drinks with alcohol.

Ultimately, energy drinks provide only a temporary burst of energy. For more sustained effects, our experts recommend prioritizing a balanced diet, adequate hydration and regular physical activity to optimize energy levels in the long term.

Energy drinks are not recommended for children and adolescents and should be avoided by these individuals as per the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Adults with caffeine sensitivity should avoid the consumption of energy drinks as well.

Since high doses of caffeine may exacerbate cardiac conditions, individuals with a known history of heart disease should avoid energy drinks. Those who are pregnant and breastfeeding should limit energy drink usage as well.

Natural and synthetic versions of caffeine are almost identical, chemistry-wise. The natural variety is found in the leaves and seeds of many plants and shows up in coffee, tea and chocolate. Some companies add caffeine sourced from coffee or cacao beans or yerba mate leaves to their products.

The synthetic kind is made in a lab or pharmaceutical plant and is often added to beverages like soda and energy drinks to enhance the stimulant effects. There is nothing wrong with either version of caffeine, but typically products with synthetic caffeine contain a lot of other additives and sugar.

As deputy director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition Lab for the past three years, Stefani Sassos handles all nutrition content, product testing and evaluation. She stays up-to-date on the latest research to provide evidence-based reporting on all things diet and nutrition, and she also runs large-scale tests and analyses for products ranging from protein bars to supplements. Stefani also has expertise in the fitness industry for the last 10 years as a cycling instructor and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer and oversees all fitness content for Good Housekeeping.