Coffee or energy drink? When it comes to talking about beverages that can help you reach productivity, two top-of-mind options come to mind. But which options is healthier and more effective in providing that long-lasting energy boost?
It’s undeniable that caffeine is the key component in both beverages, which boosts energy levels and improves alertness. Energy drinks double up on caffeine – usually packing an average of 100mg of caffeine for each 8oz. serving compared to coffee’s 60-120mg. Bottles of energy drinks usually include other ingredients such as taurine, ginseng and B vitamins for an added boost.
But what else can these drinks bring to the table and which one offers the most benefits? Let’s look at the difference between coffee and energy drinks to help assess which one is better.
When it comes to health, coffee and energy drinks both have their pros and cons. On one hand, coffee contains polyphenol antioxidants and has been linked to reducing the risk of several diseases and lowering blood pressure, while energy drinks only contain one known antioxidant – guarana.
Coffee also has much less sugar than energy drinks – with an 8oz. cup containing typically no more than 2 grams. On the other hand, energy drinks contain an average of 27g of sugar per 8oz. serving – making the drink too sweet for regular consumption and more harmful in the long run.
In terms of energy and motivation, coffee is believed to be more effective than energy drinks due to its nootropic properties, which improves motivation, mental clarity and creativity through the adenosine receptors and neurochemically slight increase in dopamine levels.
Although most energy drinks claim to offer improved energy levels, recent studies have found that the energy boost from energy drinks is short-lived and more associated with a placebo effect than a scientific effect.
Coffee vs Energy Drinks: Sleep Patterns
Both coffee and energy drinks contain the same key ingredient, caffeine, but how the body processes them is different. While coffee gives you that extra boost of energy, it doesn’t affect your ability to fall asleep or remain asleep.
Because of the sugar content, energy drinks tend to cause a bigger sugar rush, which can cause a crash soon after. The spike and crash in energy levels may make it difficult to relax and sleep later in the evening.
Caffeine also has a 6-hour half-life, meaning that it can stay in the system for up to 12 hours after consumption. Therefore, consumption of coffee later in the day can still affect sleep patterns.
Coffee vs Energy Drinks: Cravings
It’s been found that energy drinks do more than just cause an energy spike and crash – they also trigger cravings. The sugar contained in energy drinks causes an insulin release, which can make us crave more sugary drinks as well as fatty and salty foods.
Research suggests that coffee could help reduce cravings, as caffeine helps to lessen hunger pangs and reduce your appetite. Some studies even link coffee consumption to a lower body weight. Coffee also increases the production of certain hormones, such as cholecystokinin, which is related to feelings of fullness.
Coffee vs Energy Drinks: Price
When it comes to the cost, energy drinks are usually the most expensive beverage because of their sophisticated packaging and marketing campaigns. Furthermore, energy drinks contain added vitamins and ingredients that can boost their price tag. In comparison, coffee can be bought in its simplest form, or in more complex blends. It also has the convenience of being widely available – any coffee shop is sure to have a cup of brewed coffee or a premade espresso.
In comparison to energy drinks, coffee is generally cheaper and has a much longer life span. It is also packed with nutrients, which can improve health and reduce inflammation.
Coffee vs Energy Drinks: Taste
Coffee offers a distinctive taste and is usually made from high-quality beans. Coffee can be prepared in many ways and can be enhanced by the addition of milk, cream, spices and sweeteners. In comparison, energy drinks have a more generic flavor, as the ingredients are more focused on providing energy than on taste.
Coffee is also more versatile, as it can be served hot or cold and enjoyed in a multitude of ways. On the other hand, energy drinks are made to be consumed cold and cannot be enjoyed in other forms.
Coffee vs Energy Drinks: Safety
The safety of energy drinks has been questioned as they contain higher doses of caffeine than coffee. Energy drinks can also contain other compounds, including herbs, which can interact with alcohol, medications and other foods. Furthermore, people with certain medical conditions, such as heart problems and hypertension, should avoid energy drinks due to the high levels of caffeine and sugar.
In comparison, coffee is generally safe and can even offer certain health benefits. However, if consumed in high amounts, it can increase anxiety levels and cause insomnia.
Coffee vs Energy Drinks: Final Thoughts
There is no clear winner when it comes to the debate of coffee vs energy drinks. It all depends on individual preferences and what purpose the beverage is for.
Those who are seeking a stronger and longer lasting energy boost may benefit more from an energy drink, but those who are looking to improve the overall quality of their sleep should opt for coffee. However, people who want a healthier option will certainly benefit more from coffee.
At the end of the day, it is important to be mindful of the amount of caffeine consumed and to understand that energy drinks and coffee both have their pros and cons.