Energy Drinks for Work: 12 Natural Options (and 3 to Avoid)

It’s 2 p.m., your eyelids feel heavy and your focus is fading. More than 60% of workers experience that familiar afternoon slump.

The real question is no longer “Do I need energy?” but which drink you should choose to boost your brain without harming your health.

To dive deeper into the topic, check out our full guide on natural energy drinks and sustainable energy .

Why your drink choice impacts your productivity

Your concentration relies on 3 pillars:

• Glucose: the main fuel for your brain
• Caffeine: stimulates alertness
• Hydration: even mild dehydration can reduce performance

Industrial energy drinks often create an energy spike followed by a hard crash. The goal: stable energy without emotional rollercoasters.

The 12 best natural energy drinks

1. Matcha – Stable focus

   About 70 mg of caffeine + L-theanine for 4 to 6 hours of focus without jitters.
   Best time: around 9 a.m.

2. Black coffee – Classic but in moderation

   About 95 mg of caffeine per cup. Above 4 cups a day, anxiety and sleep problems can appear.
   Best time: morning and early afternoon.

3. Green tea – Gentle but effective

   30–50 mg of caffeine + antioxidants that protect your brain.
   Best time: throughout the day.

4. Lemon water – The hydration wake-up

   No caffeine, but vitamin C and an immediate refreshing effect.
   Best time: first thing in the morning and between caffeinated drinks.

5. Kombucha – Energy via the gut

   Fermented drink rich in probiotics, for a better functioning gut and brain.
   Best time: late morning or afternoon.

6. Green protein smoothie – Complete fuel

   Spinach, banana, protein, plant-based milk: a combination of carbs, protein and micronutrients for long-lasting energy.
   Best time: breakfast or snack.

7. Coconut water – Premium hydration

   Rich in electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, ideal against mental fatigue.
   Best time: afternoon, especially in summer.

8. Yerba maté – The South American alternative

   About 85 mg of caffeine + theobromine for energy and a better mood.
   Best time: morning or early afternoon.

9. Golden milk – Energy without caffeine

   Plant-based milk, turmeric and ginger to help reduce inflammation and chronic fatigue.
   Best time: in the evening or before night shifts.

10. Beet juice – Focus via circulation

    Natural nitrates improve blood flow to the brain.
    Best time: about 2 hours before a demanding task.

11. Black tea – The compromise

    40–70 mg of caffeine, a good middle ground between coffee and green tea.
    Best time: mid or late afternoon.

12. Buddy – Clean energy, without additives

    Natural caffeine, natural sugar and 0 additives: a simple, transparent and effective drink.
    Best time: before a meeting, deep work session or whenever you need a quick boost.
    Discover Buddy in the shop →

3 energy drinks to avoid at work

• Classic energy drinks: too much sugar, too much caffeine, guaranteed crash.
• Sugary sodas: fast sugar spike followed by an energy dip.
• “Light” drinks with artificial sweeteners: disrupt the gut microbiome and often increase sugar cravings.

Example of a drink routine for a productive workday

• 7:00: lemon water
• 8:30: coffee or matcha
• 10:30: coconut water or kombucha
• 14:00: green tea or Buddy
• 16:00: herbal tea or water

Golden rule: drink two glasses of water for every caffeinated drink.

Conclusion: sustainable energy starts with your choices

Natural drinks provide stable, long-lasting energy without the crash. The winning combo: matcha in the morning, water throughout the day, and Buddy for a controlled boost.

To learn more, read our full article on natural energy drinks , or explore our range directly in the Buddy shop.