Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.
Rica is a writer and editor for mybest PH who first joined the team in October 2020. She mostly writes lifestyle titles, especially ones that tap into fashion, beauty, food, arts, and hobbies. Though she's someone who dabbles in whatever sparks her interest, Rica spends most of her free time fangirling, watching races, and playing with her dogs.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Here are some key points to consider:
The ingredients of energy drinks are the key to selecting the right one. They vary depending on the manufacturer’s target market. Below, we will provide you with some of the important ingredients and vitamins you should take note of when checking labels.
Taurine is an amino acid that supports the balance of electrolytes to prevent dehydration. It also aids the nervous and immune system, eyesight, and calcium regulation. When you eat or drink anything with taurine before any physical activity, it can also help burn more fat, improve endurance, avoid fatigue, and reduce muscle damage and soreness.
Most energy drinks contain B vitamins. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12 generally aid brain function, fat, amino acid, and carbohydrate metabolism. They make sure that the food we eat will be converted into energy. Therefore, getting an energy drink packed with B vitamins is highly recommended.
Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) in Valine, Isoleucine, and Leucine are amino acids that the body cannot produce. Thus, you need to take in BCAAs regularly, whether in energy drinks or other food, in the right amount to help in muscle growth and reduce muscle soreness.
If you are an athlete or sports enthusiast undergoing rigorous training, you will need some energy drinks rich in BCAAs, as during exercise or any physical activity, BCAAs decrease. That is why consuming food or drinks rich in BCAAs will help avoid muscle breakdown and fatigue after you work out.
Caffeine is a known stimulant present in most energy drinks that prevents drowsiness and gets you through the entire day, and keeps you pumped up during a busy day. It is suggested to take energy drinks rich in caffeine if you want to stay awake.
However, too much caffeine is not advised as it is not good for your body. Excessive caffeine intake can be dangerous, as it can lead to insomnia, digestive issues, muscle breakdown, and addiction. It is important to be mindful of the caffeine content of the energy drinks you consume.
Inositol, a carbohydrate type found in your body and some food, is one of the most common ingredients in energy drinks. It increases serotonin levels, improves mood, and reduces anxiety, thus helping the brain function better in times of stress. It can also reduce insulin resistance as it helps in controlling blood sugar.
In the long run, it is good practice always to check the sugar content of the food and drinks you consume to manage your sugar intake and prevent the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Ensure that you will not exceed the recommended daily intake of 2 to 3 tablespoons, as per the Food and Nutrition Research Institute.
Drinks with high sugar get absorbed easier by blood than solid food. Some consumers just also want to get an energy boost without a sizeable amount of calories from sugar, especially those who observe their sugar consumption. Thus, when looking for energy drinks, also consider the amount of sugar it contains.
From ₱359
Redbull takes the top spot since it has everything you need for an energy drink! It’s highly recommended for people who want to stay awake, relieve stress, fight against colds, and remain hydrated. The drink contains caffeine, taurine, B-group vitamins, and Alpine waterーa perfect combination in one drink.
Because of its ingredients, Redbull helps increase your performance, endurance, and concentration, even if you are under a lot of stress. Thus, it is the perfect energy drink to grab when you have upcoming deadlines or if you want to increase your performance in competitive sports.
From ₱99.75
This energy drink delivers twice the effect of any other boosting beverage! It is an excellent pick for those who want to boost their energy, burn fat, and recover from colds. This drink contains taurine, ginseng, B vitamins, and L-carnitineーa healthy mixture to make you feel better and stronger.
Monster Energy Drink lives up to its tagline, "the meanest energy drink on the planet," as it packs a powerful punch to unleash the monster in you, especially in times of fatigue and stress. It also provides a delightful taste because of its smooth flavor. What a powerful way to start your day!
From ₱22
Get the strength and sharpness of a cobra with this energy drink. Not only does it contain caffeine, B Vitamins, and taurine, but it also has inositol known to aid brain functions and affect serotonin levels. Thus, you can expect enhanced physical strength and mental alertness with this drink!
Cobra is one of, if not the most popular brand of energy drink in the Philippines. It is perfect for adults who need added energy without emptying their pockets. Another thing you'll love about it is its ability to provide you with extra immunity to combat various diseases, thanks to its IMMUNIPLUS+ infusion.
From ₱25
Don't let the serving size fool you, as just one small bottle of this energy drink is enough to get you through the day. But what sets it apart from other energy-boosting beverages is its formula. It has no sugar and is low in calories yet has the essential B vitamins and caffeine. You'll also love that it causes no bloat!
One small bottle of this drink has the same effect as one cup of coffee, so you can expect to feel recharged after a shot. It also comes in three flavors: original, mango berry flavor for focus and memory boost, and calamansi to boost immunity against sickness if you need other variants to address your body's demands.
From ₱72
This energy shot is basically the sugar-free version of the universally-loved Red Bull Energy Drink. With that said, you can expect that it contains the same energy-boosting ingredients. To start the list, it contains caffeine, known for its brain-stimulating capabilities. It also has B-group vitamins to maintain normal body functions.
Other than that, it also comes with Taurine to address fatigue. The edge of this product lies in its no-sugar formula. Instead of the traditional sugar, this energy drink uses Aspartame and Acesulfame K, which are non-caloric and low-calorie sweeteners. Hence, with this, you get the drive you need sans the sugar!
From ₱29.6
If you want a trusted energy drink that can help you power through long busy days, Lipovitan is an excellent choice. Known as one of the oldest energy drink brands, this one has accompanied countless people in recovering and preventing fatigue. It is also a go-to shot for many to improve their stamina.
Lipovitan is made with a blend of sustaining vitamins, including B1, which metabolizes carbohydrates, and B2, which breaks down carbs, fat, and protein for energy. As a result, this energy drink helps you maintain and improve your physical strength and concentration - perfect if you're about to face busy days ahead.
From ₱135
Extra Joss has ginseng extract and royal jelly as natural energy sources and antioxidants. It also has taurine, caffeine, and Vitamins in the B group, including B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, and B12. Plus, it is low-calorie and sugar-free! However, this is not recommended for children and pregnant women.
Each pack is equivalent to 1 serving when added with one glass of water. It is advised to drink a maximum of 2 sachets a day. This brand has been existing for so long because of its reliability and portability. With just a small sachet, you get to recover your strength and get an energy boost with added vitamins!
From ₱48
Bacchus-D is a very well-loved Korean energy drink brand that has been around since 1963. It is most often considered an excellent alternative to the very popular energy drink, Red Bull. It has continued its widespread success ever since they have exported the energy drink to about 18 countries around the world, one of which is the Philippines.
If you're looking for an energy drink with lower levels of sugar and calories than other brands, this one is for you. It also has essential ingredients, including caffeine, taurine, Vitamins B6 and B12, and Inositol. While made to give you a boost of energy to stay on top of your game, some also take it to cure hangovers since it has red ginseng.
From ₱149
Brand’s energy drink has a lot to offer! It helps speed up your metabolism with its specially formulated chicken extract. It also has zero sugar and low calories. But more than that, it fights fatigue and stress by improving your energy, concentration, and mental alertness.
This exceptional drink can cater to many Filipinos who need to power up their day and get maximum energy to beat deadlines, whether in school or work. Unlike other energy drinks, this is perfectly safe for mothers who just gave birth to help them regain their strength, too.
From ₱22
Sting energy drink is specially formulated for hardworking individuals who need extra energy without hurting the budget. In the Philippines, it is widely available and accessible, whether in online markets, convenience stores, or supermarkets nationwide, so it is one of the most patronized energy drinks.
Its ingredients include caffeine, taurine, B Vitamins, and inositol, which will give you a positive kick. It also has a fair amount of calories but has more than half of the recommended daily sugar intake. One bottle of this is more than enough to get you through a rough day, and you'll love that it comes in a fruity and refreshing strawberry flavor!
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by mybest team.
Because of their caffeine content and infusion of other energy-boosting ingredients, energy drinks can have an immediate impact on your body. They tend to pump up blood pressure and affect your heart rhythm, causing palpitations. This is also why those with heart problems are advised to avoid them.
Since they contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants that may lead to increased blood pressure and heart rate, energy drinks are not recommended for pregnant women. Some of them also contain a lot of sugar, which may be harmful to the baby.
It's good to consume an energy drink 30-60 minutes before you want an energy boost. It is because the main ingredient responsible for energizing you, which is caffeine, takes about 45 minutes to be fully absorbed into your bloodstream.
Looking for something to pair with your energy drinks? Here are some links to our top healthy food and snacks you may eat along with your energy drink to have maximum energy and nutrients for the day before you study, work, or exercise.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
Beauty
Body care, Makeup, SkincareCameras
Camera supplies, Digital cameras, Drones and multirotorsHealth
Beauty supplements, Medical supplies, Feminine careHousehold goods
Air treatment, Bath and shower supplies, BlanketsPCs and laptops
Computer accessories, Computer components, Desktop pcsHome appliances and electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, Air treatment, Blenders, mixers, and food processorsFood and drinks
Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods and desserts, BakingKitchen supplies
Baking tools, Coffee and tea accessories, Food containersClothing
Brands and shops, Men's coats and jackets, Men's innerwearShoes
Men's shoes, Other shoes and footwear, Outdoor footwearAccessories
Bags, Accessories and jewelry, BeltsMom and baby
Baby books and toys, Baby food and snacks, Baby suppliesInterior and furniture
Beds, Carpets and rugs and mats, ChairsHobbies
Animes, Arts and crafts, Board gamesOutdoor
Camping beds and cots, Camping stoves, CoolersDIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Accessories, Badminton, BasketballPets
Cat supplies, Dog supplies, Fish and aquarium suppliesBooks, CDs, and DVDs
Books and magazines, CDs, Linguistics, dictionaries, and phrase booksGames
Console accessories, PC and console gamesCars and motorcycles
Car accessories, Car seats, Car suppliesGifts
Christmas-related gifts, Gifts for kids, Gifts for menHome improvement and tools
Door hardware and locks, Electrical, Gas stovesSmartphones and tablets
Smartphone accessories, Smartphones, StorageBanking and finance
Credit cards, Debit cards, Services and appsInsurance
Car insurance, Life insurance, Medical insuranceAudio
Earphones, Gaming, HeadphonesSmartphone applications
Business apps, Dating apps, Education appsOthers
Others, Merch, Recreation