With finals season underway at many high schools, many students resort to energy drinks to keep alert and focused. While this may appear beneficial at first, the excessive caffeine in energy drinks can cause a range of health issues, including heart palpitations, anxiety, jitters, and even difficulty sleeping. Instead of taking copious amounts of caffeine, there are healthier alternatives that will provide your brain and body with the energy they require to get through finals week.
Alternatives:
Water, the most available alternative, keeps the blood moving and provides energy to the brain. Staying hydrated allows the body to function properly and feel rejuvenated. Different types of water, such as coconut water, contain electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. These electrolytes keep your body running by allowing the muscles and nerves to operate properly. Coconut water also gives energy with no added sugars or additives.
“Drinking water gives me energy because it makes me more hydrated and refreshed,” said Meer Lodhi (‘26).
Kombucha, which contains enzymes, probiotics, and B vitamins, promotes better digestion and the conversion of food into energy. Kombucha also contains natural caffeine and sugars, providing an energy boost while avoiding a crash.
Fresh fruit juices and smoothies are rich in vitamin C and natural sugars. These fruits also include a plant compound known as flavonoids, which are known for their health benefits and energizing properties. Smoothies that contain fruits, vegetables, yogurt, or nuts include carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, which allow you to stay full for longer while providing energy.
Snacks:
Berries, citrus fruits, bananas, and other foods provide vitamin C, flavonoids, natural sugars, fiber, and water. These nutrients help you stay hydrated. Vitamin C and antioxidants also help improve mental performance and attention. Additionally, leafy greens are rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, all of which aid in energy production. The iron found in these vegetables delivers oxygen to the brain and muscles, improving mental and physical readiness.
“Whenever I get hungry, I can’t focus, so snacks help me feel more rejuvenated and let me start with a clear head,” said Elvis Lee (‘25).
Nuts, particularly walnuts, make healthy, convenient snacks. Omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts, support brain function and memory, and provide sustainable energy. =
In the mood for a sweet treat? Chocolate’s cocoa contains theobromine and a bit of caffeine. Chocolate also increases serotonin and endorphins, which improve mood and mental energy.
Energy drinks may seem like a quick and easy choice, but the growing dependency is dangerous. For finals week, choose the healthier options that will provide you with health benefits and the energy boosts that you need.
