Coffee vs Energy Drink Calculator
Compare caffeine content, nutrition facts, and health impacts
Health Warning: Caffeine consumption should be limited to 400mg daily for healthy adults. Energy drinks may contain additional stimulants. Consult your doctor before consumption if pregnant, sensitive to caffeine, or with heart conditions.
Coffee
Energy Drink
Comparison Results
COFFEE
0mg
caffeine
VS
0%
difference
ENERGY DRINK
0mg
caffeine
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Coffee | Energy Drink | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0 | 0 |
| Sugar (g) | 0 | 0 |
| Other Stimulants | None | Varies |
Health Impact Analysis
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Daily Caffeine Status
0/400mg (0% of daily limit)
Caffeine Content Guide
| Beverage | Size | Caffeine (mg) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drip Coffee | 8oz | 95-165 | 0 |
| Espresso | 1oz | 47-64 | 0 |
| Red Bull | 8.4oz | 80 | 27 |
| Monster | 16oz | 160 | 54 |
| Bang Energy | 16oz | 300 | 0 |
"The FDA recommends healthy adults limit caffeine intake to 400mg per day (about 4-5 cups of coffee). Energy drinks often contain additional stimulants like taurine and guarana that may enhance caffeine's effects."
Health Effects Comparison
Coffee Benefits
- Rich in antioxidants
- May reduce risk of Type 2 diabetes
- Associated with liver health benefits
- Contains essential nutrients (B vitamins, potassium)
- No artificial sweeteners or colors
Energy Drink Risks
- High sugar content (except sugar-free versions)
- Additional stimulants may cause nervousness
- Acidic and may damage tooth enamel
- Associated with increased blood pressure
- Often consumed faster than coffee
Research Note: A 2022 study found that energy drink consumers had 20% higher incidence of heart palpitations compared to coffee drinkers, even when controlling for caffeine content.
Caffeine FAQs
Is coffee healthier than energy drinks?
Generally yes, primarily because coffee contains no added sugar (unless you add it) and provides beneficial antioxidants. Energy drinks often contain high sugar levels and additional stimulants that may cause adverse effects when combined with caffeine.
Why do I crash harder after energy drinks?
Energy drinks often cause sharper crashes due to their high sugar content causing blood sugar spikes/drops, combined with caffeine's diuretic effects. Coffee's caffeine is absorbed more slowly, especially when consumed with food.
Can I mix coffee and energy drinks?
We strongly advise against mixing due to risk of caffeine overdose. A large coffee plus an energy drink could exceed 400mg caffeine quickly. Combined stimulants may also cause anxiety, heart palpitations, or sleep disturbances.
Do energy drinks hydrate you?
No, they typically dehydrate. While they contain water, caffeine is a diuretic and the high sugar content increases urine production. Coffee is only mildly diuretic when consumed regularly (the body develops tolerance to this effect).
How long do these stay in your system?
Caffeine's half-life is about 5 hours (time for half to be eliminated). So 100mg at noon means ~50mg remains at 5pm. Energy drink additives may prolong effects. Avoid all caffeine at least 6 hours before bedtime for optimal sleep.