It’s the busy, day-to-day grind; whether exams are hitting in full force or days are long and sleep is sparse, sometimes we all crave more energy. College students need all the help they can get to make it to the end of a hectic day, and caffeine can come in awfully handy. Some people aren’t coffee fans, or want to regulate their caffeine doses more tightly, or just prefer to switch up their caffeine sources. That’s where this helpful list of eight unique caffeinated treats comes into play. The vast array of choices ensures that there’s something to help everyone stay awake during their early morning lecture, remain sharp in the hours of cramming leading up to an important exam, or stay focused and energized during a busy day.
Viter Energy Mints
These mints come in five tasty flavors: wintergreen, spearmint, chocolate mint, cinnamon, and peppermint. They’re super convenient to throw in your bag and carry with you everywhere, and in addition to providing you with a burst of caffeine, they freshen your breath and give you a healthy dose of four different B vitamins. Also, two mints equal one cup of coffee, so they’re ideal for people who are sensitive to caffeine or just want a little boost.
Better Than Coffee Energy Bars
Better Than Coffee bars truly pack a punch. The four available flavors—Dark Chocolate Mint, Dark Chocolate Cranberry, French Roast, and Dark Chocolate Coconut—each contain 100 milligrams of natural caffeine from Guarana and Maca plants. The bars are easily portable, making them super convenient for when you are on the go. Additionally, these caffeinated treats are vegan, gluten free, produced in a nut-free factory, and certified kosher—which means they’re perfect for those with a wide range of dietary restrictions.
Neuro Gum
I have been chewing Neuro Gum since first semester of my freshman year, and it’s a product that I always go back to. The 40 milligrams of caffeine make me feel alert but not jittery. The packs are also convenient to carry with me at all times, and the science of adding L-theanine and B-vitamins to the all-natural caffeine lets me know that I’m caffeinating in a smart way. There have been many times when I’m dozing off in lectures, pop-in a piece of this gum, and feel alert within minutes due to the Patented-Cold Compression technology. All in all, I think this gum is a perfect product for students, busy bees, and night owls everywhere.
Awake Chocolate
These Awake Chocolate bars are ideal for chocolate fanatics that need an energy boost. Whether you’re a fan of milk chocolate, dark chocolate, caramel and chocolate, or peanut butter and chocolate, Awake has got you covered. One entire chocolate bar has as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, but Awake also sells chocolate bites that are convenient to throw in your bag and provide a smaller burst of energy. These chocolate bars are perfect for those that want a boost of energy while also satisfying their sweet tooth.
Tea Squares
These Tea Squares are not only super portable and convenient, but they also come in three unique and exciting tea-themed flavors. Whether you’re a chai tea fanatic, a green tea matcha lover, or you have an açaí obsession, you won’t have a problem finding a bar flavor that you love. Another benefit of these bars is that the caffeine source is organic green tea that contains the amino acid L-theanine which is typically associated with stress reduction, helping prevent post-caffeine crashes and nervous-jitters.
Extreme Sport Beans
Although these Sport Beans are typically eaten by athletes to enhance their performance, the company also makes Extreme Sport Beans that are packed with 50 miligrams of caffeine per serving along with a healthy dose of vitamins, carbohydrates, and electrolytes. With flavors ranging from pomegranate to cherry to assorted smoothie flavors, these jelly beans are perfect for candy cravers who find themselves in need a boost of energy.
Bai Sparkling Water
Bai Bubbles are not your typical sparkling water. The flavors are sweet and full of fruit. The drinks are also packed with antioxidants, and they contain no artificial sweeteners, one gram of sugar, and only five calories. With as much caffeine as a typical cup of green tea (about 45 milligrams), this is the perfect alternative for individuals who crave soda but are looking for a healthier alternative and who don’t like the bland flavor of typical seltzers. With seven vibrant flavors ranging from blackberry lime to blood orange, everyone is certain to find one that’s perfect for them.
Given these diverse options and the many more caffeinated confections in the world, hopefully everyone can find their perfect energizing treat to get them out of the busy day blues. And even coffee or tea lovers can find something that entices them to try a new caffeine source. Keep working hard and finish your day strong, my curious, caffeine-loving companions.