Energy drinks are everywhere - used for a quick pick-me-up, pre-workout buzz, or late-night study session.
But what are they really doing to your body, and how do they stack up against healthy hydration?
This blog dives into the facts, busts common myths, and reveals why water - especially clean, mineral-rich water, might be your most energising choice after all.
Energy ≠ Hydration
While energy drinks may give you a short-term boost, they do little to support real hydration. In fact, the high caffeine and sugar content in many energy drinks can lead to mild dehydration.
Caffeine is a natural diuretic, increasing fluid loss, while excess sugar can pull water into the digestive system, leading to imbalances.
Staying properly hydrated with clean water is more effective for sustained energy and focus - especially during exercise or long work days.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that proper hydration significantly outperformed caffeine alone in endurance tests.
Hidden Health Risks
Energy drinks often contain up to 300mg of caffeine per can - nearly triple a cup of coffee. Regular or excessive use is linked to elevated heart rate, anxiety, and sleep disruption.
One review published in Frontiers in Public Health also notes a correlation between frequent consumption and increased blood pressure and risk of arrhythmias. For people sensitive to caffeine or with underlying conditions, the effects can be dangerous.
The Gut Factor: Energy Drinks & Digestion
Artificial sweeteners and preservatives in many energy drinks can disrupt your gut microbiome. Gut health is essential for nutrient absorption, energy production, and mental clarity - yet energy drinks can irritate the stomach lining or contribute to bloating. In contrast, hydration with pure, mineral-balanced water helps maintain a healthy gut barrier and supports digestive flow.
A 2021 study in Nutrients found that hydration with high-quality water positively influenced gut microbiota composition. Try our Mineral-Alkaline MyBases for improved and gentle digestion.
A Better Energy Routine Starts With Water
Rather than relying on synthetic boosts, creating a hydration-first routine with pure water (like Sküma’s reverse osmosis + mineral-enhanced water) can enhance energy, focus, and recovery. Add natural flavor or electrolytes like lemon, ginger, or our Mineral Bases to give your water a functional edge without the crash.
Many “energy slumps” can actually be signs of mild dehydration - especially mid-afternoon fatigue and brain fog.
Upgrade your hydration routine
Unlike energy drinks, Sküma water supports your body at its core: hydration, mineral balance, and cellular energy.
Our advanced reverse osmosis technology removes pollutants, while our mineral cartridges allow you to customise your water’s composition - perfect for starting your day, recovering post-workout, or staying focused without caffeine overload.
Skip the crash. Choose clean hydration, every time.
Discover the difference with Sküma
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Caffeine and hydration status in athletes, Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research (2022)
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Energy drinks: health risks and toxicity, Frontiers in Public Health (2023)
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Hydration status influences gut microbiome diversity, Nutrients Journal (2021)
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What Energy Drinks Do to Your Body, VeryWell Health (2025)
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How alkaline water supports digestion and pH balance, Journal of Environmental and Public Health (2021)
