Whether you’re at the gym or watching a sports game on TV, you probably notice many athletes gulping down an energy drink before or during a workout. These beverages are so popular that the market will likely reach 86 billion dollars by 2026.

Although most people choose to have a workout energy drink to improve their endurance and stamina, some individuals doubt their effectiveness.

Are you one of these people? If so, stick around as we consider how sports drinks affect your body during a workout!

How Do Energy Drinks Affect Your Workout Performance?

Most energy drinks contain caffeine, which stimulates your nervous system. As a result, you feel a temporary boost that can increase your energy levels, improve your mental clarity, and keep you motivated during a workout. Thus, you may find yourself lifting more in the gym or running faster than you normally do. 

Despite these incredible results, caffeine highs are short-lived and may cause unfortunate side effects during or after your workout. For example, you may feel jittery or shaky, have a stomach ache, or even feel weak.

So, what can you do to experience the benefits of an energy drink? Let’s take a look!

Pay Attention to Ingredients

Some people are surprised to find out that caffeine can come from many sources- both natural and synthetic. And while both give you energy, the synthetically produced version found in most energy drinks is absorbed much quicker. And as fast as it is absorbed, it leaves your body, leaving you drained.

On the other hand, natural caffeine (such as green tea) metabolizes much differently in your body. Since it sticks to the antioxidants in the tea, your body absorbs it slowly. The result is a more steady supply of energy throughout your workout. 

Moreover, since green tea contains L-Theanine, it combats the jittery feeling you get from synthetic caffeine. 

Of course, there are other factors to consider when choosing an energy drink other than caffeine. For example, you may want to avoid high concentrations of sugar since these can dehydrate you. Instead, look for natural alternatives like Stevia or Erythritol, which are low in calories and beneficial for our health. 

Lastly, you’ll want to pick performance enhancement drinks that contain electrolytes, since caffeine is also a diuretic. Unfortunately, that means that it causes you to urinate more frequently, leading to dehydration during an intense workout. 

Choose the Right Workout Energy Drink

While there are many different fitness energy drinks on the market, not all of them will help you feel your best during a workout. So, be sure to look for a workout energy drink made from naturally sourced caffeine, low-calorie sweeteners, and electrolytes. By doing so, you’ll have more fuel for your workout and perform better than you thought possible! 

Would you like more workout tips? If so, browse more of our online content! You’ll find all kinds of helpful advice to improve your exercise diet and fitness routine.