Balancing classes and extracurriculars, eating healthy, exercising regularly and maintaining a social life in college is hard. Doing all of this while getting enough sleep is even harder. Consequently, many college students rely on caffeine to make it through their day. Most of us have our caffeine go-to, but sticking to the same thing every day can be boring. If the Suzie’s workers know your name, it might be time to try these energy alternatives.
Caffeinated gum
Caffeinated gum comes with all the fun of a typical chewing gum while also increasing alertness and boosting cognitive performance. One stick of caffeinated gum can have as much as, or even more, caffeine than a cup of coffee. There are several options on Amazon, or you can get some from CVS on 21st Ave. Prices range from $3 for a few pieces to $30 for a whole pack. Whether you prefer mint or cinnamon, caffeine gums come in a wide variety of flavors. Just be careful not to chew too loudly in the library.
Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate has become my favorite way of surviving college. It is a caffeinated tea made from steeping hot water over the dried leaves of the yerba mate plant, found in South America. Guyakí, my favorite yerba mate company, claims it “provides a smooth energy boost” and “can improve focus.” Guyakí yerba mate energy drinks can be found near campus at Target, CVS and Amazon. There is a plethora of flavors and low-sugar and low-calorie options — I recommend the Revel Berry flavor.
Caffeinated water
Caffeinated water is a zero-calorie, sugar-free alternative to traditional energy drinks or coffee, providing a boost of energy without added sugars or artificial flavors. Water Joe, the creator of caffeinated water, claims that their product contains the caffeine equivalent of a cup of coffee while tasting just like regular water. This makes it an excellent choice for someone wanting a simple, hydrating way to stay awake. Caffeinated water can be found at Walmart, Kroger and Amazon in packs or individual bottles. Sometimes, all you really want is water, just with an extra energy boost.
Energy spray
If you’re tired of drinking caffeine, try an energy spray for a quick and convenient energy boost. There are many energy spray flavors and brands, with most claiming to contain no sugar and zero calories, resulting in “no jitters, no crash, no brain fog.” Caffeine sprays are easy to carry on the go and can contain beneficial vitamins and electrolytes. Unlike traditional energy drinks, the caffeine in energy sprays is thought to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, causing it to act swiftly. Energy sprays are ideal for busy students wanting to stay focused and productive.
No matter your major, we’ve all been there; studying for exams, furiously typing papers or grinding out calculus problem sets. Sometimes, sleep has to be sacrificed, and it can be hard to keep our eyes from closing during lectures but staying energized in college doesn’t have to be mundane. Experiment with these unique, energizing products and find the perfect boost to power through your day.
