Energy Drinks Are Sugar and Caffeine in a Costume

The "energy" is mostly two familiar ingredients, turned up.

Energy drinks sell a vibe of high-performance fuel. The label tells a simpler story.

What's actually in the can

The "energy" is mostly a big hit of caffeine plus sugar. A single large can can carry as much caffeine as several coffees and as much sugar as a soda. The exotic-sounding extras — taurine, B-vitamins, guarana (which is just more caffeine) — do far less than the marketing implies.

The real concerns

It's easy to overshoot on caffeine, especially with multiple cans or when mixed with other sources — leading to jitters, poor sleep, and a racing heart. The sugar-free versions solve the sugar but not the caffeine load.

The move

If you want the lift, a coffee or tea gives you caffeine without the megadose and mystery blend. If you do reach for an energy drink, treat one as plenty, and keep it out of the afternoon so it doesn't wreck your sleep.

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