Are Runa Energy Drinks Good For You?

When it comes to what we put in our bodies, many of us seek out not only healthy products, but those that are also ethical, sustainable, and environmentally-friendly. Runa promotes itself as a "clean energy drink" and is USDA Organic and Fair Trade certified as well as Non-GMO Project verified (via Runa). A standard 12-ounce can of Berry Boost Runa energy drink contains only 10 calories and no artificial sweeteners, with some Runa products containing no calories at all. Instead, each can contains iron, vitamin C, and brewed organic guayusa.

Runa energy drinks are tea-based, making them a natural source of caffeine rather than synthetic (via Caffeine Informer). Although Runa uses many natural and healthy ingredients, it's important to note that a standard Runa original energy drink contains 150 milligrams of caffeine, ranking it "high" in caffeine content according to Caffeine Informer's ranking system. The guayusa leaf, native to Ecuador and Runa energy drink's caffeine source, contains more caffeine than a single cup of brewed coffee (via Runa). While not directly related to green tea, the guayusa leaf does provide double the amount of antioxidants, according to Caffeine Informer.

It is, of course, possible to have too much of a good thing — even something natural. Overconsumption of caffeine can have detrimental physical and mental side effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautions that adults should consume less than 400 milligrams of caffeine each day. Consuming more than the suggested amount can lead to negative side effects, especially for those who may be caffeine-sensitive such as pregnant individuals. Side effects can include feelings of dysphoria, insomnia, headache, nausea, jitters, and heart palpitations. Therefore, it's important to bear in mind that consuming more than two cans of Runa energy drinks in a day will put you over the advisory limit.

However, by deriving their caffeine from the guayusa leaf, Runa provides some health benefits over the potentially harmful effects of synthetic caffeine. For example, its use has been associated with weight loss, regulation of blood sugar, as well as mental benefits like increases in attentiveness and improved mood (via Healthline).

Runa energy drinks are also making a worldly impact. Sourcing directly from the indigenous farmers of the Amazon, the purchase of Runa products helps both protect the rainforest and support those who inhabit the region (Runa).