Best Celsius Drink Alternatives for a Healthier Energy Boost

As a professional athlete who has tried many energy drinks and pre workout supplements over the years, I believe Celsius energy drinks are among the healthiest energy drinks available.

However, there are healthy alternatives to Celsius that provide an energy boost with even more beneficial ingredients and without the few ingredients I don’t like in Celsius drinks.

The combination of caffeine, green tea extract, and other natural ingredients in Celsius energy drinks not only provides a strong, steady energy boost but also offers additional benefits for body composition.

In my experience as a fitness-lover and professional athlete, I’ve seen how Celsius drinks help you burn fat, but I’m also aware that they contain a substantial amount of caffeine, and their proprietary metabolism-boosting formula may not be okay for everyone.

Although some people believe Celsius drinks are bad for you due to social media videos and a bad reputation, I believe they are one of the healthiest energy drinks.

While there are pros and cons of Celsius drinks, Celsius drinks have several benefits for people who like a strong jolt of energy with metabolism-boosting ingredients.

Especially when compared to traditional energy drinks, Celsius is a healthier choice.

• When comparing Red Bull vs. Celsius or Monster vs. Celsius, it’s clear that Celsius is the healthier choice.
• Red Bull and Monster energy drinks are often packed with sugars and artificial ingredients, which can lead to energy crashes and unnecessary calorie intake. 

However, if you’re looking for an alternative to Celsius drinks with even less caffeine and more natural ingredients, or you simply want an alternative to Celsius drinks you can have from time to time, the alternatives on this list provide excellent alternatives that prioritize overall health, energy, and performance.

Ingredients to Look for in Healthy Alternatives to Celsius Drinks

Before analyzing the best Celsius drink alternatives, I wanted to explain some of the energy-boosting and health-promoting ingredients you should be on the lookout for. Here are a few common energy drink ingredients.

• Caffeine: A widely-used stimulant found in coffee, tea, and many energy drinks. It increases alertness and focus, but too much can lead to jitters or a crash.
• Green Tea Extract: Contains both caffeine and L-theanine, which provide a smooth energy boost without the jittery side effects of synthetic caffeine.
• B-vitamins: These vitamins help convert food into energy, supporting metabolism and maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
• Adaptogens: Ingredients like ashwagandha or ginseng help your body adapt to stress and improve focus and stamina naturally.

Top 5 Healthy Celsius Drink Alternatives

While I believe Celsius drinks offer a great balance of natural ingredients and fat-burning benefits, some people may prefer energy drinks with lower caffeine or different ingredient profiles.

If you’re looking for healthier alternatives to Celsius, the following options provide clean energy without sacrificing performance or well-being.

Here are the top best alternatives to Celsius drinks:

1.) Bloom Energy Drinks

In my opinion, Bloom Energy Drinks are the best alternative to Celsius, offering a unique option for those seeking an energy boost.

Each 12-ounce can of Bloom contains 180 mg of natural caffeine sourced from green coffee bean extract, providing a clean and sustained energy lift without the jitters or crashes often associated with synthetic caffeine.

In contrast, there is 200mg of caffeine in Celsius energy drinks, which, while effective, may be excessive for individuals sensitive to higher caffeine levels. 

Bloom Energy Drinks also incorporate prebiotic fiber and apple cider vinegar, which promote digestive health by supporting a balanced gut microbiome.

Celsius, while containing beneficial ingredients like green tea extract and B vitamins, does not specifically include these nourishing ingredients for digestive support. 

Moreover, Bloom’s formulation includes L-theanine, an amino acid known for promoting relaxation without drowsiness. When combined with caffeine, L-theanine can enhance cognitive performance and attention, offering a balanced and focused energy experience.

Celsius does not include L-theanine, which I believe would be a worthy ingredient as L-theanine is known to improve the experience of drinking caffeine (Giesbrecht et al., 2010).

Additionally, Bloom Energy Drinks are crafted with zero grams of sugar, utilizing natural sweeteners to provide a pleasant taste without added calories or the risk of blood sugar spikes associated with traditional energy drinks.

By combining natural caffeine, digestive support through prebiotics and apple cider vinegar, cognitive enhancement with L-theanine, and a sugar-free formulation, Bloom Energy Drinks offer a unique alternative to Celsius for individuals seeking sustained energy and overall well-being.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

2.) ZOA Zero Sugar Energy Drinks

ZOA Zero Sugar Energy Drinks are one of the best Celsius drink alternatives due to their sugar-free formula and beneficial vitamin content.

Made with natural caffeine from green tea and green coffee beans, ZOA provides a clean, sustained energy boost without the jitters of artificial stimulants.

Additionally, ZOA energy drinks contain six of the most important B-vitamins and 100% RDA of vitamin C.

Along with that, ZOA energy drinks contain additional magnesium, potassium and sodium for hydration, and the unique ingredient camu camu, which contains natural antioxidants.

• Pros: Sugar-free, contains essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, supports hydration and muscle function.
• Cons: Higher caffeine content may not be suitable for caffeine-sensitive individuals.

Although ZOA contains 210mg of caffeine, which could be too much for some people, ZOA is an excellent alternative for those who want a sugar-free option with additional electrolytes for enhanced physical performance.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

3.) TRU Focus Seltzer

TRU Focus Seltzer is an increasingly popular choice for a healthy energy boost.

With 100 mg of caffeine from yerba mate, it offers natural energy, while its inclusion of adaptogens and nootropics enhances mental clarity and focus.

• Pros: Low-calorie, no added sugar, supports hydration, vegan and gluten-free.
• Cons: Lower caffeine content may be less energizing for those who prefer stronger boosts.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded alternative to Celsius drinks that supports both energy and overall health, TRU Focus Seltzer is a perfect option, especially for those sensitive to the higher amounts of caffeine in Celsius.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

4.) CLEAN Cause Yerba Mate

CLEAN Cause Yerba Mate is another excellent natural energy drink option, made with zero calories and zero sugar. It offers 160 mg of naturally sourced caffeine from organic yerba mate, providing a clean and sustained energy boost.

• Pros: Zero sugar, keto-friendly, supports addiction recovery with 50% of profits going to recovery programs.
• Cons: A bit more expensive compared to other energy drinks on the market.

In my opinion, CLEAN Cause Yerba Mate stands out with its commitment to health, offering no sugar or artificial ingredients, making it one of the best alternatives to Celsius drinks.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

5.) Alani Nu Energy Drinks

Alani Nu Energy Drinks are one of the best alternatives to Celsius for those looking for a zero-sugar, high-caffeine energy boost with additional performance benefits.

Alani Nu offers a well-rounded formula that provides smooth, sustained energy without the sugar crashes of traditional energy drinks.

Each 12-ounce can of Alani Nu Energy Drink contains 200 milligrams of caffeine, the same as Celsius, but what sets it apart is the inclusion of L-Theanine, L-Carnitine, and Ginseng.

• L-Theanine helps balance the stimulant effects of caffeine, reducing jitters and promoting a more focused, steady energy boost.
• L-carnitine supports energy metabolism and fat utilization, making it a great addition for those looking for a cleaner, performance-enhancing energy drink.
• The addition of Panax Ginseng further supports cognitive function and endurance, something not commonly found in other energy drinks.

Their flavor quality is among the best in the energy drink market, making them an enjoyable alternative for those who like Celsius but want to switch things up.

Overall, Alani Nu Energy Drinks are a great Celsius alternative for anyone looking for a high-caffeine, zero-sugar energy drink with added functional ingredients.

If you want a delicious, well-balanced energy boost, Alani Nu is one of the best options available.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

Read my Celsius vs Alani Nu comparison for a better look at these two healthy energy drinks.

6.) Zevia Energy Drink

Zevia is a popular drink brand that offers an energy drink that contains 120mg of caffeine and is sweetened with stevia.

It contains no sugar, calories, or artificial ingredients, making it a guilt-free choice.

I love the Zevia sodas, which are essentially sparkling water flavored like traditional sodas, and the Zevia energy drink provides a clean, straightforward energy boost.

• Pros: Zero sugar, no artificial ingredients, available in many flavors.
• Cons: Taste may not appeal to everyone, as stevia can have a slightly bitter aftertaste.

Zevia is an excellent option because it is easy to drink and has only natural ingredients.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

Natural Celsius Alternatives

For those seeking natural alternatives to Celsius drinks that still provide an energy boost, several common beverages offer comparable effects, often with lower caffeine content and added health benefits.

Each of these natural alternatives can serve as a healthy, effective way to boost energy while delivering additional health benefits.

Black Coffee

Black coffee is one of the most straightforward and widely available natural energy drinks or natural pre workout alternatives.

Whether you prefer espresso, cold brew, regular hot drip, or single-serve options like Nespresso or K-cup coffee, each offers varying caffeine levels to suit your energy needs.

• Caffeine Content:
  • Espresso: Around 63 mg per 1-ounce shot
  • Cold Brew: Typically 100-200 mg per 8-ounce serving, depending on concentration
  • Regular Hot Drip Coffee: Around 95 mg per 8-ounce cup
  • Nespresso/K-Cup Coffee: Varies between 75-150 mg per serving, depending on the pod type

Black coffee, especially cold brew, can offer a similar energy kick to Celsius drinks but without added ingredients.

Coffee also contains antioxidants and has been shown to improve focus and mental clarity, though it lacks the thermogenic fat-burning ingredients found in Celsius.

You can drink your regular cup of black coffee that you regularly make at home, or you can try one of my recommended best weight loss coffee brands, like Four Sigmatic Happy Gut:

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

Green Tea

Green tea is a natural source of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness while enhancing focus, offering a smoother energy boost compared to caffeine alone.

• Caffeine Content: Around 30-50 mg per 8-ounce cup

Green tea’s caffeine content is lower than that of Celsius, but the combination of caffeine and L-theanine helps avoid the jittery sensation that can come with high-caffeine drinks.

Additionally, green tea contains antioxidants and compounds that support fat metabolism, making it a milder yet beneficial alternative to Celsius for both energy and fat burning.

Yerba Mate Tea

Yerba mate is a traditional South American tea made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It provides a strong energy boost similar to Celsius, as it contains caffeine along with a range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

• Caffeine Content: Around 85 mg per 8-ounce cup

Yerba mate’s caffeine content falls between green tea and coffee, offering a sustained energy lift without the crash. Like Celsius, it can enhance both physical performance and focus, making it a solid natural alternative.

Many find that yerba mate provides an energizing yet less jittery effect compared to coffee or synthetic energy drinks.

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that sits between green and black tea in terms of oxidation and flavor. It offers moderate caffeine and several health benefits, including boosting metabolism and improving heart health.

• Caffeine Content: Around 37-55 mg per 8-ounce cup

Oolong tea offers a balanced caffeine content similar to green tea, but its polyphenols are especially beneficial for fat oxidation and metabolic boosting. This makes oolong tea a good natural alternative to Celsius drinks that do burn fat, without overstimulating the system.

Matcha Tea

Matcha tea is a powdered form of green tea that provides a concentrated dose of caffeine and antioxidants. Unlike regular green tea, matcha uses the whole tea leaf, providing more nutrients and a more pronounced energy boost.

• Caffeine Content: Around 70 mg per 8-ounce serving

Matcha delivers a stronger caffeine kick than standard green tea, thanks to its concentrated form, and like green tea, it includes L-theanine to promote calm focus.

Matcha is an excellent natural alternative for those who enjoy the sustained energy and fat-burning properties of Celsius but want a lower-caffeine option that still provides significant metabolic benefits.

Energy Drink Ingredients You Should Avoid

While it can be tempting to reach for any energy drink that promises a quick boost, it’s crucial to identify which ones may do more harm than good. Here are a few red flags:

• High sugar content: Drinks with excessive sugar may provide a short energy spike but result in a crash, leading to fatigue and cravings for more sugar.
• Synthetic caffeine: Many unhealthy drinks contain synthetic caffeine, which can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and energy crashes. Look for natural caffeine sources like green tea or yerba mate.
• Artificial ingredients: Avoid energy drinks packed with artificial flavors, colors, and sweeteners. These may harm your health in the long run, even if they offer short-term energy.

Celsius avoids many of these pitfalls by using natural ingredients, making it a better option compared to others on the market.

Moreover, Celsius drinks won’t make you fail a drug test, which is proven as they are a reliable choice for athletes such as Olympic Champion Sprinter Noah Lyles.

Final Thoughts: What is the Best Alternative to Celsius Drinks?

While Celsius stands out for its natural ingredients and proven fat-burning properties, other options offer similar clean energy boosts, each with unique benefits that may align better with your needs. 

Whether you prefer on-the-go Celsius packets for convenience or are exploring alternatives that rank among the healthiest energy drinks, it’s crucial to carefully examine the ingredient list.

Look for natural caffeine sources like green tea or yerba mate, and avoid unnecessary sugars and artificial additives, which can lead to energy crashes and other health concerns.

Making an informed choice will ensure you’re fueling your body with clean, sustainable energy that supports your long-term health and performance.

Last update on 2025-04-15 / This article includes affiliate links/Images via Amazon Product Advertising API. I may earn commissions on purchases made through these links.

Read Next: Are Celsius Drinks Good for You?