Sugar free Monster energy drinks have become an increasingly popular option for people looking for an energy boost without the calories and sugar of regular energy drinks. However, there is much debate around whether sugar free Monster is actually a healthy choice. This article will examine the ingredients, benefits, and potential downsides of sugar free Monster to help you decide if it’s a smart choice for you.
What is Monster Energy Drink?
Monster energy drink is a popular energy drink brand that was launched in 2002. The original Monster energy contains caffeine, taurine, B vitamins, sucrose, glucose, and other ingredients marketed to provide an energy boost. Monster also comes in a sugar free version which contains artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium instead of sugar. Both versions contain nutrients added for energy like B vitamins and taurine.
Common Ingredients in Sugar Free Monster
While ingredients can vary between flavors, most sugar free Monster drinks contain:
- Caffeine – Sugar free Monster contains 160 mg of caffeine per 16 oz can.
- Taurine – An amino acid that is thought to increase metabolism and enhance alertness and focus.
- Guarana extract – A natural source of caffeine.
- Vitamin B2, B3, B6, and B12
- Sucralose and acesulfame potassium – Artificial sweeteners that provide sweet taste without calories or carbohydrates.
- Natural flavors
- Citric acid
- Sodium citrate
- Sorbic acid
- Gum arabic
- Potassium sorbate
- Potassium benzoate
Differences from Regular Monster
The main differences between regular Monster and sugar free Monster are:
- Sugar free Monster has 0 calories and 0g of sugar, while regular Monster has 210 calories and 54g of sugar per serving.
- Sugar free Monster is sweetened with artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium rather than sugar.
- Sugar free Monster contains potassium sorbate and potassium benzoate as preservatives whereas regular Monster does not.
- Other ingredients like caffeine, vitamins, taurine, and flavors are similar between both versions.
So in essence, sugar free Monster provides the same energy blend without sugar or calories.
Benefits of Sugar Free Monster
There are some potential advantages associated with opting for sugar free Monster:
Zero Calories and Sugar
One of the biggest claimed benefits is that sugar free Monster has zero calories and sugar. This may be advantageous for people limiting sugar and calories in their diets. Consuming too much added sugar has been linked to increased risk for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues. By choosing sugar free Monster, you avoid these calories and sugars.
May Help Focus and Alertness
The caffeine and amino acids in Monster provide stimulant effects that may help improve focus and concentration in the short term. Caffeine in moderate doses has been shown to enhance alertness, reaction time, and concentration. If you are looking for a quick energy boost, sugar free Monster may deliver without the sugar crash later.
Wide Variety of Flavors
Monster comes in many flavor varieties including citrus, fruit punch, mango loco, java, and more. The variety allows you to switch between flavors and enjoy something new.
Convenience
Sugar free Monster is portable and convenient to grab when you need an energy boost on the go. It is packaged as a ready-to-drink beverage that can be purchased in grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations and many other locations.
May Help Some Manage Blood Sugar
Since it is sugar free, this version of Monster will not raise blood sugar levels like regular Monster and other sugary drinks. For people with diabetes or insulin resistance trying to control blood sugar spikes, sugar free Monster may be a better option.
Potential Downsides of Sugar Free Monster
However, there are also some potential cons associated with sugar free Monster to consider:
Contains Artificial Sweeteners
Sugar free Monster relies on artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium rather than real sugar. There is mixed research on the health effects of artificial sweeteners. While they provide sweetness without calories, some studies link them to increased weight gain over time and other issues. More research is still needed.
High Caffeine Content
There are 160mg of caffeine in one 16oz can of sugar free Monster which is considered a high amount. Consuming too much caffeine may cause jitteriness, anxiety, headaches, insomnia and other side effects in sensitive individuals.
Contains Controversial Amino Acid – Taurine
While taurine occurs naturally in the body and supporters claim it boosts energy levels, some researchers claim there is lack of evidence for energy benefits in beverages and potential downsides like increased blood pressure.
Lack of Nutritional Value
Aside from added B vitamins, sugar free Monster lacks nutritional value. It provides caffeine and amino acids but no other macros, minerals or vitamins. It is not a healthy replacement for juice, milk or other more nutrient dense beverages.
Potential To Develop Tolerance
Drinking caffeinated drinks frequently can lead to developing a caffeine tolerance over time. This means you might start needing more caffeine to feel alert and get the same energizing effects.
Not Recommended for Children
Sugar free Monster contains a lot of caffeine and is not designed for consumption by children or adolescents despite some alluring marketing tactics.
Acidity Can Damage Teeth Over Time
Like other acidic drinks, sugar free Monster has a low pH that could potentially damage tooth enamel with frequent consumption.
Contains Controversial Preservatives
The preservatives potassium benzoate and potassium sorbate added to sugar free Monster have been accused of causing negative health effects in some but the evidence is still being debated.
Sugar Free Monster Nutrition Facts
Here is a nutritional breakdown of a typical 16oz can of sugar free Monster Energy Drink:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 0 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Potassium | 130mg |
| Total Carbs | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Caffeine | 160mg |
| Vitamin B3 | 40mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 40mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 40mcg |
As you can see, one can of sugar free Monster contains no calories, fat, carbs or protein. The calories come mainly from the caffeine content. It also contains added B vitamins including 40% of the daily value for B3, B6 and B12.
Caffeine Content in Sugar Free Monster
The caffeine content in sugar free Monster energy drink is approximately:
- 160mg per 16 fl oz can
- 80mg per 8 fl oz serving
- 320mg per 24 fl oz can
For comparison, this caffeine per serving is:
- Less than coffee, which averages 95mg per 8 oz
- More than soda, with around 24mg per 8 oz can
- Similar to other energy drinks like Red Bull which contain around 80mg per 8 oz
The FDA recommends limiting caffeine intake to 400mg per day for adults. Teenagers should limit to 100mg per day. Children age 12 and under should not consume caffeine.
As you can see, one 16oz can of Monster nearly provides the maximum daily caffeine for adolescents. Drinking more than one per day can quickly exceed daily recommendations, especially for younger populations. Moderation is key.
Sugar Free Monster Flavors
Sugar free Monster comes in a wide selection of flavors including:
- Zero Ultra Sunrise
- Zero Ultra Red
- Zero Ultra Black
- Zero Ultra Blue
- Zero Ultra Citron
- Zero Ultra Gold
- Zero Ultra Paradise
- Zero Ultra Violet
- Zero Ultra White
- Monster Lo-Carb
- Java Monster Lo-Carb
- Monster Energy Zero Ultra
New flavors are introduced periodically. This wide range gives you plenty of flavors to switch between so you don’t get bored drinking the same option every day.
Buying Sugar Free Monster
Sugar free Monster can be purchased at many grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, gas stations, and online. It is sold in individual 16oz cans as well as larger multi-packs with 4, 6, 12 or 24 cans.
Some places you can buy sugar free Monster include:
- 7-Eleven
- Circle K
- QuikTrip
- Sheetz
- Wawa
- RaceTrac
- Kroger
- Albertsons
- Safeway
- Walmart
- Amazon
- Costco
Shop around to compare prices and availability of specific flavors. Buying larger multi-packs can provide cost savings per can compared to single cans. Promotional discounts are sometimes offered through mail-in rebates or limited time sales as well.
Tips for Drinking Sugar Free Monster
Here are some tips to consider if drinking sugar free Monster energy drinks:
Avoid Over-Consumption
Drink sugar free Monster in moderation, not exceeding 1-2 cans daily. Consuming excessive amounts can lead to side effects from too much caffeine, B vitamins, and other ingredients.
Limit Other Caffeine
Reduce caffeine intake from other sources like coffee, tea and soda to avoid going over 400mg total caffeine per day.
Stay Well Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before, during and after consuming sugar free Monster to stay hydrated and help your body process the caffeine.
Not for Children
Do not give sugar free Monster to kids or teens as they are more sensitive to caffeine. Children should avoid caffeine consumption.
Avoid Before Bed
Drink sugar free Monster earlier in the day and avoid in the late afternoon or evening which can disrupt sleep from the stimulating effects.
Use Sparingly if Pregnant/Breastfeeding
Limit caffeine from all sources including sugar free Monster to 200mg or less per day.
Recognize Effects Diminish Over Time
Realize you may develop a tolerance where more sugar free Monster is needed to feel energized as use continues long-term. Take occasional caffeine breaks.
Not a Meal Replacement
Sugar free Monster should not replace protein, fruits, vegetables and other whole foods needed for balanced nutrition.
The Bottom Line
Overall, sugar free Monster can be a convenient zero calorie way to get a caffeine and energy boost without excess sugar. However, it is not a healthy replacement for other drinks and should be used in moderation. Too much consumption may lead to side effects from caffeine, artificial sweeteners, and other ingredients. While an occasional sugar free Monster likely poses little risk for most healthy adults, you should consider your personal caffeine sensitivity, the need for an energy drink boost, and whether other beverages are better options for long term use. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about consuming sugar free Monster energy drinks.