Although some energy drink brands do provide vitamin C, you likely get enough of this nutrient in your diet already. Good food sources of vitamin C include fortified cereal and fruits and vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, tomatoes, potatoes and citrus fruits and juices. If you're looking to supplement your vitamin C intake with energy drinks, choose brands that list ascorbic acid in the ingredient list.
The Facts
Energy drinks fall in the category of functional beverages, according to the American Dietetic Association. Functional beverages are supplemented with ingredients associated with specific health benefits. Although some energy drinks do provide vitamin C, the ADA advises that daily supplements are a better alternative for those who need to increase intake to meet recommendations.
Identification
According to energy drink labels, these beverages offer either all or nothing when it comes to vitamin C. The energy drinks that do contain vitamin C contain from 100 to 250 percent of the recommended dietary allowance. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements lists the recommended intake for vitamin C at 75 mg for adult women and 90 mg for adult men.
Function
Your body needs Vitamin C to synthesize collagen for connective tissue, to maintain healthy immune function and to assist with the absorption of iron from plant foods, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Vitamin C also works as an antioxidant, which counters the effects of free radicals and may play a role in decreasing risks for chronic illnesses such as heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Effects
A balanced diet is the best source of vitamin C. However, if you enjoy an occasional energy drink, it generally doesn't hurt to go over the recommended amount. Adults can safely tolerate up to 2000 mg of vitamin C, explains the Office of Dietary Supplements. The most common side effects of high vitamin C consumption are mild in nature and include stomach cramps, nausea and diarrhea.
Considerations
A common ingredient in energy drinks is caffeine. Most varieties provide about the same amount per serving as a cup of coffee, according to the University of California at Davis. Full-calorie varieties provide an average of 100 calories per serving. When you consider that a typical energy drink contains two to three servings, that's the equivalent of up to three cups of coffee and 200 to 300 calories. Although too much caffeine or sugar in your diet can be detrimental to your health, the Nemours Foundation advises that energy drinks are usually harmless in moderation. Look for other food sources of vitamin C and limit your consumption of energy drinks to one a day or less.
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