With nutritional recommendations, there is often a spectrum of good, better, and best. That spectrum of guidance can also fluctuate from person to person- what is healthy for one individual may not work for another, depending on multiple factors, circumstances, and individual needs. This is no different when choosing between Celsius Energy Drink vs Coffee. Let's take a look at how they compare in caffeine, ingredients, calories, and more.
This article covers the differences between Celsius drinks and their ingredients and how they compare with other caffeinated beverages, including coffee. Our goal is to help you make the most healthy and informed decision so that you can feel your best!
Differences and Fast Facts
There are many differences between Celsius energy drinks and coffee. Here are the facts: Celsius has more caffeine than coffee with 200mg per can while a standard cup of coffee ranges between 70-140mg of caffeine.
Coffee has naturally occurring caffeine that is released when the beans are ground and brewed in hot water. It also contains antioxidants and natural compounds that can be beneficial as well.
Celsius contains added caffeine, additional flavors, and stimulating herbs and supplements like guarana seed, green tea extract, and taurine.
Plain black coffee is low in calories (one calorie per cup). It is also naturally bitter which leads people to add cream and sweeteners to flavor. These additions can increase calories quickly and have other unnatural ingredients in some products.
Celsius offers a variety of flavors that range from 10-15 calories per can. To sweeten, most Celsius varieties use sucralose (Splenda). This a synthetic sweetener that has been increasingly linked to health issues. However, they also have a more natural option, sweetened with Stevia which is a natural herbal sweetener without spiking sugar or adding calories. It does come with its own set of benefits and risks.
Jump to:
- Differences and Fast Facts
- Caffeine Intake
- Clean Energy vs Artificial Energy
- What is Celsius?
- Celsius vs Other Energy Drinks
- Reference Chart Celsius vs Red Bull
- Is Coffee Healthy?
- Monitoring Caffeine Intake
- Celsius vs Coffee
- Disclaimer
- Coffee Types and Celsius Compared
- Celsius Drink Options
- Popular Celsius Products Ingredients
- Ingredient Notes
- Celsius Ingredients Broken Down
- Conclusion
- Comments
Caffeine Intake
I have had a variety of personal experiences with coffee, energy drinks, and other caffeinated beverages. I have seen family, friends, and clients all have different experiences with their caffeine intake and how it has affected their health and energy levels.
As a Holistic Nutritionist and someone who has both been hooked on caffeine and energy drinks as well as someone who later became sensitive to caffeine, I recommend using it with caution. Whether in coffee or energy drinks, moderation is key. And most importantly, listening to your own body and experiences.
Quality of ingredients and sourcing is a major factor involved, as well as maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Caffeine is a stimulant. Those who have health conditions, pregnant women and young children, and those who experience caffeine sensitivity or intolerance should avoid beverages that contain high levels of caffeine. Please discuss this with your doctor before making changes to your diet and lifestyle.
Clean Energy vs Artificial Energy
Adopting a lifestyle that includes consuming clean, whole foods, avoiding chemicals in foods and household products, drinking pure spring water, and practicing mindful eating can support healthy clean energy levels.
Additionally, getting enough quality sleep, engaging in physical activity and regular exercise, and surrounding oneself with positive thoughts, healing energy, and consistent prayer create a strong foundation that contributes to overall well-being and vitality. Drinking cold-pressed juice is one of my favorite natural ways to boost energy. Learn more about it here.
Often in our busy lifestyles, we find that we fall short in some of these areas and seek external sources for a boost of energy in the forms of tea, coffee, and energy drinks like Red Bull, Monster, Rockstar, and more. Many use energy drinks to fuel their active lifestyle and the need to stay awake and keep going.
These caffeinated beverage options and lifestyle choices come at a cost and can lead to excessive caffeine consumption. Too much caffeine often has negative side effects on heart rate, and the nervous system, and even results in withdrawal symptoms. When one begins to experience these adverse effects they may begin to wonder if there are better options like healthy energy drinks.
Celsius is one energy drink that has hit the market by storm. They claim to have better ingredients that avoid preservatives, artificial flavors, and additional toxic ingredients. Celsius energy drink is marketed as a healthy alternative to the most popular energy drinks on the market.
What is Celsius?
Celsius Energy Drink is a popular brand of fitness-focused energy drinks. It is a carbonated beverage with a high caffeine content that is designed to provide a boost of energy, enhance focus, and support metabolism.
Celsius Energy Drink contains a blend of ingredients, including caffeine, taurine, guarana seed extract, green tea extract, and various vitamins and minerals.
It is marketed as a drink that can help promote weight loss, increase endurance, and improve physical performance. The drink is commonly consumed by individuals seeking an energy boost before workouts or as a pick-me-up during the day.
It's important to note that while energy drinks can provide temporary energy and focus, they should be consumed in moderation, and individuals should be mindful of their caffeine intake and potential side effects.
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Celsius vs Other Energy Drinks
Celsius Energy Drink distinguishes itself from other energy drinks like Red Bull through its fitness-focused approach. With a proprietary blend of ingredients, Celsius claims to provide a sustained energy boost, enhance metabolism, and improve exercise performance.
Additionally, Celsius highlights its thermogenic effect, potentially increasing calorie burning and metabolic rate. Unlike Red Bull, Celsius offers sugar-free options and avoids artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors.
Overall, Celsius Energy Drink appeals to health-conscious individuals seeking a tailored and healthier energy drink option that aligns with their active lifestyles.
HOWEVER, Celsius does offer artificial sweeteners, like sucralose, which have been known to contribute to the decline of gut health and increase inflammation and cancer risk.
They do offer Celsius stevia which utilizes stevia, a more natural sugar alternative.
Celsius Energy Drink sets itself apart from other energy drinks like Red Bull not only in its fitness-focused approach but also in the quality of ingredients used.
Celsius claims that they select high-quality natural ingredients, including caffeine, taurine, guarana extract, green tea extract, ginger extract, and various vitamins and minerals.
They want to provide a more beneficial energy boost, compared to the formulation of other energy drinks like Red Bull which includes caffeine, taurine, B vitamins, and processed sugars.
However, the amount of caffeine in Celsius energy drinks tends to be much higher.
Reference Chart Celsius vs Red Bull
Here's a table comparing the ingredients, nutritional labels, and caffeine content of Celsius Energy Drink and Red Bull:
| Celsius Energy Drink | Red Bull | |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Caffeine, Taurine, Guarana Extract, Green Tea Extract, Ginger Extract, Various Vitamins, and Minerals | Caffeine, Taurine, B vitamins, Sugars |
| Sugar | Varies (including sugar-free options) | Yes (sugar content varies) |
| Artificial Preservatives, Flavors, Colors | None | May contain artificial additives |
| Nutritional Label | Varies depending on the flavor | Varies depending on the flavor |
| Caffeine Content | Typically around 200 mg of caffeine per serving | Typically around 80mg of caffeine per serving |
Please note that the nutritional labels and caffeine content may vary among different flavors and specific products within each brand. It's always advisable to check the packaging or official websites for accurate and up-to-date information on ingredients, nutritional content, and caffeine levels.
Is Coffee Healthy?
Coffee can be a part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed in moderation. It is also very important to choose quality coffee brands that are low acid organically grown and tested for mold and other toxins that can have negative effects on health.
Coffee contains antioxidants and bioactive compounds that offer potential health benefits. The caffeine in coffee can enhance mental function, including alertness and cognitive performance. It has also been shown to improve physical performance and endurance.
Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, liver diseases, and certain types of cancer. However, it's important to note that individual responses to coffee can vary, and some people may experience adverse effects due to caffeine sensitivity or other health conditions. Check out our article on histamines in coffee and minimize your exposure to them. We also have an article that shows a natural way to reduce the acidity in coffee.
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Monitoring Caffeine Intake
It's crucial to consider certain factors when consuming coffee. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to side effects like restlessness, increased heart rate, anxiety, and digestive issues. Coffee consumption too close to bedtime can disrupt sleep quality which. People with specific health conditions such as heart problems or high blood pressure may need to limit or avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages. Additionally, the healthfulness of coffee can be influenced by additives like sugar, cream, or syrups. Be sure to buy high-quality sweeteners and creamers!
In general, moderate coffee consumption of 3 to 4 cups of coffee per day or up to 400 milligrams of caffeine is considered safe for most healthy individuals. However, it's essential to listen to your body, be aware of personal tolerance, and make choices that align with your overall health and well-being. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.
Personally, I have not been able to tolerate more than 1-2 cups of coffee every other day. I use high-quality low-acid organic coffee beans with a splash of Ceylon cinnamon and pure monk fruit sweetener. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
Celsius vs Coffee
Celsius Energy Drink and coffee are two popular caffeinated drink options for boosting energy, but they differ in several aspects. Here's a comparison between Celsius Energy Drink vs coffee:
Caffeine Content: Celsius Energy Drink typically contains around 200mg of caffeine per serving, while the caffeine content in coffee can vary widely. A typical 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains about 95mg of caffeine, but this can vary depending on the type of coffee and the brewing method used.
Additional Ingredients: Celsius Energy Drink contains a blend of ingredients such as taurine, guarana extract, green tea extract, and ginger extract, along with various vitamins and minerals. Coffee, on the other hand, is a more straightforward beverage made from roasted coffee beans and water.
Targeted Benefits: Celsius Energy Drink is marketed as a fitness-focused beverage that aims to enhance metabolism, support weight loss, and improve physical performance. Coffee is primarily consumed for its stimulant effects, such as increased alertness and focus.
Taste and Variety: Celsius Energy Drink comes in various flavors, providing a range of taste options. Coffee, on the other hand, offers a wider variety of flavors and preparations, allowing for more customization based on personal preferences.
Hydration: While coffee has a mild diuretic effect due to its caffeine content, it still contributes to overall hydration. On the other hand, Celsius Energy Drink contains fluids but also has a higher caffeine content, which may increase the need for additional water intake to stay properly hydrated.
Portability and Convenience: Celsius Energy Drink comes in pre-packaged cans, making it convenient to carry and consume on the go. Coffee can be prepared at home or purchased from various coffee shops, providing more flexibility but requiring additional preparation time.
Personal Preference and Tolerance: The choice between Celsius Energy Drink and coffee ultimately depends on personal preference, lifestyle, and individual tolerance to caffeine. Some individuals may prefer the convenience and specific benefits offered by Celsius, while others may enjoy the ritual and taste of coffee.
Disclaimer
It's important to note that both Celsius Energy Drink and coffee should be consumed in moderation. Caffeine affects individuals differently, and excessive consumption can lead to side effects like restlessness, increased heart rate, or digestive issues. It's advisable to listen to your body, be mindful of your caffeine intake, and consider your specific health needs and preferences when deciding between Celsius Energy Drink and coffee.
Coffee Types and Celsius Compared
| Nutrition Facts | Health Benefits | Caffeine Content | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Coffee | Negligible calories, fat, and carbohydrates | Antioxidant-rich may enhance mental alertness and focus | Approximately 95mg per 8-ounce cup |
| Espresso | Negligible calories, fat, and carbohydrates | Concentrated caffeine boost, aids digestion | Approximately 63mg per 1-ounce shot |
| Latte | Varies based on milk and added sweeteners | Provides calcium and vitamin D, creamy and indulgent | Varies based on coffee strength |
| Cappuccino | Varies based on milk and added sweeteners | Balanced coffee-milk ratio, frothy texture, moderate caffeine | Varies based on coffee strength |
| Mocha | Varies based on milk and added sweeteners | Combines coffee, chocolate, and milk, boosts mood and satisfaction | Varies based on coffee strength |
| Cold Brew | Negligible calories, fat, and carbohydrates | Smooth and less acidic, may reduce the risk of heartburn and reflux | Approximately 200mg per 16-ounce |
| Celsius Energy Drink | Varies depending on the flavor | Fitness-focused, promotes weight loss, metabolic boost, and performance enhancement | Approximately 200mg per serving |
Please note that the nutritional content and caffeine values for Celsius Energy Drink may vary depending on the specific flavor and product variation. It's always advisable to check the packaging or consult reliable sources for precise nutritional information and caffeine content.
Celsius Drink Options
Celsius offers a range of energy drinks that are designed to support various health and fitness goals. Here are some of the different types of Celsius drinks and their features:
Celsius Originals: This line of drinks includes flavors like Sparkling Orange, Sparkling Cola, and Sparkling Wild Berry. They provide an energy boost while also promoting calorie burning and improving physical performance.
Celsius Naturals: These drinks are made with natural flavors and have no artificial preservatives or colors. They are available in flavors such as Sparkling Grapefruit, Sparkling Cucumber Lime, and Sparkling Watermelon.
Celsius Heat: This line of drinks is specifically formulated as a fitness drink to provide an extra kick for intense workouts and to help accelerate metabolism. Celsius Heat offers 300mg of caffeine and comes in flavors like Inferno Punch, Cherry Lime, and Blueberry Pomegranate.
Celsius On-The-Go Powder Sticks: These convenient powder sticks allow you to mix Celsius into water wherever you are. They come in flavors like Raspberry Acai Green Tea, Orange, and Kiwi Guava.
Celsius Stevia: This is a variation of the original Celsius energy drinks but uses stevia as a natural, zero-calorie sweetener instead of artificial sweeteners like sucralose. Stevia is derived from the leaves of the stevia plant and has gained popularity as a natural alternative to artificial sweeteners.
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Popular Celsius Products Ingredients
| Drink Type | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Celsius Originals | Carbonated Filtered Water, Citric Acid, Natural Flavor, Sucralose, Vegetable Juice (for color), Fruit and Vegetable Extracts (for color), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Caffeine, Guarana Seed Extract, Glucuronolactone, Ginger Root Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) |
| Celsius Naturals | Carbonated Filtered Water, Citric Acid, Natural Flavor, Stevia Leaf Extract, Vegetable Juice (for color), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Caffeine, Guarana Seed Extract, Glucuronolactone, Ginger Root Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) |
| Celsius Heat | Carbonated Filtered Water, Citric Acid, Natural Flavor, Sucralose, Vegetable Juice (for color), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Caffeine, Guarana Seed Extract, Glucuronolactone, Ginger Root Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) |
| Celsius On-The-Go | Varies depending on flavor, but commonly includes ingredients such as Citric Acid, Natural Flavor, Sucralose, Vegetable Juice (for color), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Caffeine, Guarana Seed Extract, Glucuronolactone, Ginger Root Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) |
| Celsius Stevia | Carbonated Filtered Water, Citric Acid, Natural Flavor, Stevia Leaf Extract, Vegetable Juice (for color), Green Tea Leaf Extract, Caffeine, Guarana Seed Extract, Glucuronolactone, Ginger Root Extract, Calcium Carbonate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) |
Ingredient Notes
Please note that the specific ingredients may vary slightly depending on the flavor and formulation of each Celsius drink. It's always advisable to check the packaging or consult reliable sources for the precise ingredient list of a particular Celsius product.
To avoid artificial sweeteners, it would be better to choose Celsius stevia or Celsius naturals. However, it is also important to note that some of the added vitamins and nutrients may be synthetic forms. If you have certain health conditions, be sure to consult with a doctor before consuming products that have added supplements to make sure it is right for you.
Celsius Ingredients Broken Down
Celsius energy drinks contain a variety of ingredients that are carefully selected to provide an energy boost and support overall well-being. Let's explore each ingredient, where they are sourced, and their potential health benefits:
Carbonated Filtered Water
The primary base of Celsius drinks is carbonated filtered water, which helps to hydrate the body and create a refreshing beverage.
Citric Acid
Citric acid is a natural compound derived from citrus fruits and is used as a flavor enhancer and preservative. It provides a tangy taste to the drinks. It is important to note that synthetic citric acid has health complications as well and should be used with caution. Citric acid can cause tooth enamel erosion and even contribute to systemic inflammation and gut disturbances. For more information on anti-inflammatory foods and healing oral health naturally, check out these two articles.
Natural Flavor
Celsius uses natural flavors derived from various sources such as fruits, plants, or spices to create the desired taste profiles for their drinks. Natural flavors are generally considered a better alternative to artificial flavors.
Sweeteners
a) Sucralose: Sucralose is a calorie-free artificial sweetener used in some Celsius drinks. It provides sweetness without adding significant calories or affecting blood sugar levels.
b) Stevia Leaf Extract: Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the stevia plant. Celsius Stevia variants utilize stevia leaf extract as a sweetener.
Vegetable Juice (for color)
Vegetable juice is added to some Celsius drinks for natural coloring purposes. It provides a visually appealing beverage without the need for artificial colors.
Fruit and Vegetable Extracts (for color): Fruit and vegetable extracts are used in some Celsius drinks to add natural coloring and potential antioxidant benefits from the phytochemicals present in these extracts.
Green Tea Leaf Extract
Green tea leaf extract is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant and contains bioactive compounds such as catechins. It is a source of natural caffeine and antioxidants that may promote metabolism and provide potential health benefits. Learn more about two amazing green tea options in our article Sencha vs Matcha.
Caffeine
Celsius drinks contain caffeine, sourced from natural sources like green tea or guarana seed extract. Caffeine acts as a stimulant that can enhance mental alertness, focus, and physical performance. However, the effects of caffeine can vary from person to person. It's important to consume caffeine in moderation and be mindful of individual tolerance.
Guarana Seed Extract
Guarana seed extract is derived from the seeds of the guarana plant and naturally contains caffeine. It provides an additional source of caffeine in Celsius drinks.
Glucuronolactone
Glucuronolactone is a naturally occurring compound found in the body and some plant sources. It is believed to support detoxification processes, liver health, and overall well-being.
Ginger Root Extract
Ginger root extract is derived from the root of the ginger plant. It is known for its potential anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, contributing to the overall wellness aspect of Celsius drinks.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is a common calcium supplement derived from natural sources such as limestone or oyster shells. It is added to Celsius drinks to provide a source of calcium, which is important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.
Vitamin B
Celsius drinks are fortified with various B vitamins, including Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), and Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12). These vitamins play essential roles in energy metabolism, cognitive function, and the maintenance of overall health.
It's worth noting that the perceived "healthiness" of these ingredients can be subjective and depend on individual dietary needs and preferences. While Celsius uses some artificial sweeteners and flavors in certain formulations, they also offer options with natural sweeteners like stevia. As with any beverage, moderation is key, and it's important to consider your personal health goals and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns or dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
As I mentioned in the introduction, there is a good, better, and best option that varies from person to person, situation to situation. The absolute best option is to go with pure, unadulterated natural foods that are minimally processed, that allow your body to produce energy naturally. Try this liver-cleansing energy drink.
If you want to go with a caffeinated drink, you could try Matcha or Sencha Green Tea, Yerba Mate Tea, Hojicha, Mauby Bark Tea, or high-quality organic coffee as a great choice. If you prefer the jolt of an energy drink, always read the ingredients, and opt for one that uses more natural ingredients.
I'd say, if you are making the switch from artificial energy drinks, switching to Celsius can be a great option and a step in the right direction.
Once you are ready, a better choice may be to shift to coffee or tea. These have incredible antioxidants and additional health benefits without the substantial amounts of caffeine that Celsius has.
The best option would be to consider caffeine alternatives, exercise, get quality sleep incorporate healthy high-vibrational foods and thoughts into your life. These are among the best energy, mood, and health boosts available. Wherever you are on your health journey, we are here to help, support, and love.
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Have you tried Celsius energy drinks? how does it compare to coffee for you? Let us know in the comments below! Love this article? Share it with family and friends. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more up-to-date holistic nutrition info and recipes!
Have a healthy day,
Natalie
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