Healthy Energy Drink Alternatives that Work

In an attempt to cut out some of the toxic, unhealthy foods and beverages in my life, I ended up looking for healthier replacements for some of my favorites -- like chocolate and energy drinks.


It wasn't easy to find an alternative for either, but the energy drinks were especially difficult. I found that most of the time, you either sacrifice the energy part (defeating the whole purpose) or you end up with bizarre side effects. And other times, I got no energy or side effects. It was like having water as an energy drink. Luckily for this caffeine lover, I did stumble across a promising few "Celsius" energy drinks that contain a blend of Vitamin B's, caffeine, and herbs.

Flavors: Ginger Ale tastes like any Ginger Ale, which I'm pretty indifferent to. I'm find most carbonated citrus flavored drinks pleasant, so I loved the Sparkling Orange flavor. Strawberry kiwi comes in as my second favorite with its natural, fruity flavor.
 
The apple orchard flavor, which is naturally sweetened with Stevia, on the other hand, surprised me with its unpleasant aftertaste, which was reminiscent of a plasticy lip gloss. I've never been able to enjoy a Stevia-sweetened beverage, so that could be the culprit with this one.

As expected, the Calypso Punch energy shots have a strong, but tolerable taste. The fruit punch flavor makes it possible for me to drink without quivering and gagging like I do with 5-hour energy shots.




Pro's:

• As someone who's not caffeine-sensitive, I experienced none of the unpleasant shaking, nervousness, sweating, or nausea, but if you're sensitive to caffeine or the other ingredients, your experience could be different.

• They're free of: sugar, aspartame, high fructose corn syrup, artificial preservatives, artificial colors, artificial flavors. 

 According to Celsius' "clinical studies:" 

• In their human studies, Celsius was well tolerated and safe
  

• Enhanced benefits of exercise.

• Is thermogenic and burns calories with one serving as well as with continued use.
• Reduces body  fat.

• Improves body composition.

  Con's:

• The "clinical studies" appear to have been carried out by members of Celsius' team themselves rather than an independent, third party. Not that this is necessarily a con, but the results of a product tend to be more reliable when the studies are carried out by independent, unbiased, third-parties.

• I noticed some build-up at the bottom of the Calypso Punch Energy Shot bottle after I drank it. It didn't say anywhere on the label to shake first, but assuming the icky build-up is probably where the active ingredients are, I was quick to shake the next one. Needless to say, shaking it up increased that vitamin-y energy drink taste.

Ingredients: a proprietary blend of vitamin C, riboflavin (vitamin B1), thiamin (vitamin b 2), niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B6, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, calcium, chromium, 200 milligrams caffeine, taurine, guarana extract, green tea leaf extract, caffeine, glucuronolactone, and ginger root extract.

 
My overall experience with Celsius has been positive. I liked these because they had the two main factors I was looking for: 1. they're healthier than the average store-bought energy drinks and energy shots. 2. the energy I get, while not extreme at all, is as significant as a strong cup of coffee.

*See my honesty pledge (for reviews: products in exchange for my 100% honest opinion )at the top of page. Everything written here is strictly by my own choice and is my own honest, unbiased opinion. I was not persuaded in any way or given any monetary payment for a positive review. It's just me, my opinions and my thoughts!*