Coffee or energy drink?

COFFEE VS ENERGY DRINK - COMPARING CALORIES

22 October marks World Energy Day - an ideal opportunity to consider where best to get energy from. Coffee and energy drinks are the most common choices for a quick boost. But which is the better choice for your health and your figure?

If you care about low calories - coffee is definitely a winner. It contains only about 3 kcal per cup (without sugar and milk). The addition of 2% milk increases the calorie content to around 25 kcal. In comparison, a can of a popular energy drink provides as much as 112 kcal and up to 27 g of sugar! Although „zero” versions are available, they contain artificial sweeteners, which are also not inert to the body.

HOW MUCH CAFFEINE DOES A COFFEE HAVE AND HOW MUCH DOES AN ENERGY DRINK HAVE?

Both coffee and energy drinks owe their effects to caffeine. In a cup of coffee, you will find around 100 mg of caffeine, while in an energy drink can you will find around 80 mg. However, it is worth bearing in mind that energisers often contain additional stimulants, such as taurine, guarana or ginseng, which can increase the stimulating effect, but also stress the nervous system.

Coffee is a source of natural caffeine and antioxidants that support metabolism and can protect against heart disease. Energetics, on the other hand, provide an artificially composed mix of stimulants - effective, but not necessarily healthy.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF COFFEE AND ENERGY DRINKS

Coffee is a natural drink - it contains no sugar or artificial additives and provides valuable antioxidants. Moderate consumption (up to 400 mg of caffeine per day, i.e. about 4 cups) does not adversely affect health, and may even improve concentration and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Energetics, on the other hand, often contain large amounts of sugar, artificial colours and preservatives. Their regular consumption can contribute to overweight, insulin resistance and cardiovascular problems. When choosing between the two, it is far better to reach for a classic black coffee or a cold brew alternative.

HOW LONG DOES A COFFEE LAST AND HOW LONG DOES AN ENERGY DRINK LAST?

Although both drinks contain a similar amount of caffeine, the way they work differs. Coffee is drunk slowly, savouring the taste - this way the stimulation builds up gradually and lasts longer. An energiser is usually drunk quickly, resulting in a rapid increase in energy, but also a rapid decrease after a few hours.

Experts point out that frequent use of energy drinks can lead to sleep disturbances, palpitations and increased oxidative stress in the body. Coffee, on the other hand - when consumed in moderation - supports concentration and performance without negative side effects.

Bottom line: in our ranking, coffee ☕ wins. It is natural, less calorific and safer for your health. Save the energies for exceptional situations when you really need an „emergency” energy boost.