Caffeine-free energy drinks: what options are available
What is really behind caffeine-free energy drinks, when does it make sense to choose them, and what alternatives are available.
Looking for a caffeine-free energy drink makes a lot of sense: in the afternoon, when you've already had enough coffee, if you're sensitive to caffeine, or simply if you want the flavor and routine without the stimulants. But one thing should be clear from the start: the "energy" in an energy drink almost always comes from caffeine. Without it, what you have is a different type of drink. We'll tell you what options are available and what each one is for.
Is there a caffeine-free energy drink?
There are drinks sold as caffeine-free energy drinks, but it's best to read the label. Some replace caffeine with guarana, mate, or green tea, which also contain it even if they don't put it in large letters. Others are indeed stimulant-free and are based on electrolytes, vitamins, or amino acids.
If you're really looking for zero caffeine, check the ingredients list and avoid guarana, mate, cola, tea, or coffee in any form.
When it makes sense to choose caffeine-free
- In the afternoon or evening, so as not to affect your sleep.
- If you've already had caffeine during the day (coffees, colas, an energy drink in the morning) and you don't want to exceed the 400 mg daily limit that the EFSA considers safe for adults.
- If you're sensitive to caffeine and it makes you feel unwell even in small amounts.
- For drinking over a long period, for example during a long afternoon of studying or gaming, without adding up caffeine.
Caffeine-free drink options
Drinks with electrolytes
They are the most interesting alternative. They contain minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium, or chloride, and many add vitamins. They are taken with water and are available in sugar-free versions.
Flavored water or sugar-free and caffeine-free sodas
They quench thirst and the craving for something flavored, but they don't offer much more.
Caffeine-free herbal teas
Rooibos, mint, or fruit. Hot or cold, caffeine-free.
Hydrize: our caffeine-free option
Z Drinks Hydrize is a powdered drink with electrolytes, without caffeine and without sugar. According to its product sheet, each serving (one 6 g scoop in 500 ml of water) provides:
| Per serving (500 ml) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Caffeine | 0 mg |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Energy | 4 kcal |
| Potassium | 300 mg (15% NRV) |
| Calcium | 120 mg (15% NRV) |
| Chloride | 158 mg (20% NRV) |
| Salt | 0.27 g |
| Vitamins | C, E, A, D, K, niacin, B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, biotin, and pantothenic acid |
It also contains choline, L-tyrosine, and L-carnitine. It comes in a 30-serving container and has the same flavors as our best-selling energy drinks: Fresh Shot (watermelon), Citric Power (lemon), and NRGY Hypnos (energy drink flavor).
Energy drink with caffeine or Hydrize: which one to choose at each moment
| Moment | Best option |
|---|---|
| Morning or early afternoon, you need to get energized | Z Drinks Energy (200 mg of caffeine) |
| Before a hard workout | Ignition (pre-workout, 350 mg of caffeine) |
| In the afternoon or evening, or if you've already had caffeine | Hydrize (caffeine-free) |
| During or after sports | Hydrize |
Many combine the two: Energy in the morning and Hydrize for the rest of the day. This way you have flavor all day without accumulating caffeine.
How to prepare Hydrize
- Add ice to the shaker if you want.
- Add 500 ml of cold water.
- Add one scoop (6 g).
- Shake for a few seconds and you're done.
Frequently asked questions
Does Hydrize contain caffeine?
No. Hydrize does not contain caffeine or any ingredient that contains it.
Does a caffeine-free drink give energy?
Not like an energy drink. The stimulating effect of energy drinks comes from caffeine. A caffeine-free drink like Hydrize is designed to be drunk when you don't want stimulants.
Can I drink Hydrize at night?
Yes, since it does not contain caffeine, it does not have the problem of energy drinks late at night.
Is guarana a caffeine-free alternative?
No. Guarana naturally contains caffeine. If you want to avoid it, also avoid guarana, mate, and tea.
