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Vitamin Water Vs. Energy Drinks

Two popular beverages, either for working out or just hanging out, are vitamin water and energy drinks. You may be surprised at some of their similarities--or the detriments from overindulging in either.

  1. Calories

    • Vitamin water averages around 50 calories for an 8-ounce serving while energy drinks, unless specifically sugar-free, usually contain at least double that amount.

    Vitamins

    • Vitamin water contains vitamins, of course, and so do most energy drinks. Some energy drinks have nearly the same amount of vitamins as the vitamin water selections.

    Caffeine

    • Some vitamin water may be caffeine-free, but others still contain caffeine. Energy drinks are known for their caffeine kick and may contain other stimulants, such as guarana, also known as "herbal caffeine."

    Other ingredients

    • Vitamin water often includes artificial or alternative sweeteners. Energy drinks are often packed with sodium along with ginseng, ginkgo biloba and other ingredients that are said to, but not proven to, enhance energy and alertness.

    Warning

    • Drinking excessive amounts of either beverage can be detrimental. Taking in too many vitamins can impede the body from absorbing other nutrients; taking in too much caffeine can leave you jittery and nervous.

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