Assessing Keto Suitability: A Close Look at Sugar-Free Red Bull & Alternatives

With the abundance of energy drinks available, it can be challenging to identify which ones are suitable for a keto diet and which ones might disrupt ketosis. Therefore, we’ll address whether sugar free Red Bull keto-friendly and if it’s a healthy option.¹

Then, we’ll review sugar free Red Bull vs Red Bull Zero vs Lo Carb Monster vs Bang energy drinks to compare and contrast the macros, ingredients, nutrition, and taste of each to determine which ones are keto approved and which has the most health benefits.

Lastly, we’ve included a list of some of the top recommended energy drinks for those on the keto diet to try and the best features of each.

How Many Carbohydrates in Sugar Free Red Bull? Is Sugar Free Red Bull Keto?

For those on most weight loss diets, it’s important to pay close attention to the carbohydrates of foods and drinks, and this is especially true with the keto diet. To be suitable for keto, a person’s entire carb limit each day must not surpass just 20-50g net carbs; that being said, let’s take a look at the carbohydrate content in sugar free Red Bull to see if these energy drinks are keto-friendly.

Net Carbs in Sugar-Free Red Bull Based on Can Size

• 8.4oz = 2g
• 12oz = 3g
• 16oz = 4g
• 20oz = 5g

This version of Red Bull has 0 sugar but unfortunately isn’t 0 carb as well. With a maximum of 5g carbs even in the largest can offered in this variety (20oz), we give the sugar-free Red Bull a keto approval with the caveat that someone on the keto diet should have these in moderation or stick to the smaller sizes if consumed regularly.

Source: Jan Kopřiva via Unsplash²

Although each can size that sugar free Red Bull comes in is well under the daily carb limit to maintain ketosis, most of these carbs should ideally come from whole foods rather than energy drinks. Despite the reasonably low carb count per can, many people consider sugar free Red Bulls to be dirty keto due to the ingredients and sweeteners used.

Which Sweetener Is Used in Sugar Free Red Bull Keto?

Those curious about the sweeteners used in sugar-free Red Bull might be surprised to learn that there are actually two different sweeteners in this variety. Red Bull sugar free uses two artificial sweeteners to add flavor: aspartame and acesulfame potassium (acesulfame K).³

Many who want to learn to get skinny fast opt for drinks made with one or both of these synthetic sweeteners due to their low carb and calorie contents in comparison to real sugar.

When it comes to sugar free Red Bull, keto and other trending diets are very compatible due to very few carbs and calories but this drink isn’t truly ok on keto (not clean keto anyways); instead, it is more classified as “dirty keto”–something that fits into the ketogenic diet’s carb limit but has some unhealthy ingredients, contains added sugars, or is highly processed.

Although consumption of a beverage containing aspartame and acesulfame K for two weeks does not adversely influence glucose metabolism in adult males and females, this is a very short timeline so it could be argued that just two weeks do not provide a big enough picture or that long term negative health risks could simply not show up in such a small window.⁴

However, another study that may rule in favor of artificial sweeteners–or at least these two–found that non-nutritive sweeteners have no class effect on the glycemic or appetite responses to ingested glucose.⁵

Since there aren’t certain rules or standards for what constitutes dirty keto, each person should use their discretion when it comes to consuming artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame K. That being said, one should be fully aware of the potential risks associated with each of these sweeteners to make an educated decision so we’ll delve into some of the concerns of each.

Acesulfame K

About 200 times sweeter than table sugar, Acesulfame K is often used in sugar-free products to replace the sugary flavor but is known to have a subtly bitter aftertaste. This sugar substitute has zero calories and less than a gram of carbs per serving, so it’s often used in weight loss shakes, drink mixes, candy, drinks, and tabletop sweeteners.

Although the FDA has given acesulfame potassium their approval, many critics are against its use and it has been the topic of some controversy–like most artificial sweeteners–due to its lack of nutritional value and its synthetic nature. It also has seemingly endless potential health risks including but not limited to causing:

• Anxiety
• Brain Fog
• Cancer
• Chronic Inflammation
• Depression
• Detrimental Impact on the Gut Microbiome
• Headaches
• Joint Pain
• Kidney Issues
• Liver Issues
• Visual Disturbances
• Weight Fluctuations

Aspartame

With merely 0.1g net carbs per serving and 4 calories per gram of aspartame, this is another extremely popular synthetic sweetener used in commonly found foods and drinks, especially soft drinks, desserts, yogurts, weight loss shakes, and protein bars.

Although technically keto compliant, aspartame is also very problematic and concerning to many due to its association with:

• Cancer
• Cardiovascular Issues
• Convulsions
• Dementia
• Depression
• Headaches
• Intestinal Pain & Discomfort
• Migraines
• Mood Disorders
• Seizures
• Strokes

Sugar Free Red Bull vs Red Bull Zero vs Lo Carb Monster vs Bang

Those who enjoy energy drinks but are trying to figure out ways to lose belly fat overnight while still getting to enjoy them came to the right place; we’ll compare several low carb or no carb options that are keto adherent and taste great.

We’ve already established that the carbohydrate content in sugar-free Red Bull is not an issue for keto, but it’s noteworthy that sugar-free Red Bull calories are also quite low, ranging from just 10 calories in the smallest can (8.4oz) to 30 in the largest (20oz).

Since some other popular options including Red Bull Zero, Lo Carb Monster, and Bang energy drinks are all very low carb or no carb as well–and therefore all are keto compliant–we’ve put them all head to head in multiple categories to figure out which one is the best and healthiest option.

Is Red Bull Sugar-Free Good for You? (Nutritional Information for Red Bull Sugar-Free)

First off, let’s answer the question: is Red Bull Sugar Free good for you or not, and then we’ll touch on ingredients, caffeine content, and the nutritional information of Red Bull Sugar Free.

Sugar free Red Bull–low carb in all sizes–is recommended to only be consumed in the smallest can for keto purposes; the 8 oz sugar free Red Bull nutrition facts show that each can provides vitamins B3, B5, B6, and B12 along with 80mg of caffeine to replenish vitamins and give an energy boost as well.

Not only is it possible to take B12 while on a keto diet, but it also offers numerous benefits such as increased energy, weight loss, and better mood.

A study on energy drinks and sports performance, cardiovascular risk, and genetic associations concludes that caffeine is especially effective in athletes who compete in hockey, sprinting, football, and several other sports. Those who practice powerlifting or other weight lifting routines can also benefit from the influence of caffeine in a sugar free Red Bull.⁶

Carbonation and artificial sweeteners in these drinks are often criticized, so each sugar free Red Bull has its own pros and cons; we’ll leave it to each person to discern whether they want to incorporate sugar free Red Bulls into their diet either occasionally or regularly, as the healthiness of this beverage is debatable.

Sugar Free Red Bull vs Red Bull Zero vs Lo-Carb Monster vs Bang (Back to Back Comparison)

For a back to back comparison of these energy drink options, we created a table highlighting the macros, caffeine, and flavors of each. Since most of these are available in 16oz sizes, we used this amount for serving sizes where available for more clarity in match ups.

Please refer to the following to see how each drink measures up and note that Red Bull Zeros are measured in 12oz cans since that’s the largest in this variety.

Sugar Free Red Bull

• Serving Size = 16oz
• Net Carbs = 3g
• Fat = 0g
• Protein = 0g
• Calories = 25
• Caffeine = 151mg

• • Taste = Sweet, citrusy, said to taste like liquid carbonated bubble gum
  • Vitamins/Minerals = Calcium, Vitamins B3, B6, B5, B12
  • Sweetener(s) Used = Acesulfame K, Aspartame
  • Pros = Comes in many sizes, widely available, has several vitamins and minerals
  • Cons = Artificial sweetener use is highly criticized and may cause health issues

Red Bull Zero

• Serving Size = 12oz
• Net Carbs = 2g
• Fat = 0g
• Protein = 0g
• Calories = 15
• Caffeine = 114mg

• • Taste = Distinct Red Bull flavor, but slightly artificial taste
  • Vitamins/Minerals = Vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12
  • Sweetener(s) Used = Acesulfame K, Sucralose
  • Pros = Very low in carbs in calories, better option for those who don’t want as much caffeine content
  • Cons = Artificial sweeteners make this dirty keto and may cause health issues, only comes in 8oz and 12oz

Lo Carb Monster

• Serving Size = 16oz
• Net Carbs = 7g
• Fat = 0g
• Protein = 0g
• Calories = 30
• Caffeine = 140mg

• • Taste = Like the blue raspberry part of a rocket popsicle
  • Vitamins/Minerals = Vitamins B2, B3, B6, B12
  • Sweetener(s) Used = Acesulfame K, Sucralose
  • Pros = Many sizes, much lower in calories, sodium, and added sugars than original Monster
  • Cons = Highest in net carbs, dirty keto if keto at all; should only be consumed in small amounts and rarely

Bang

• Serving Size = 16oz
• Net Carbs = 0g
• Fat = 0g
• Protein = 0g
• Calories = 0g
• Caffeine = 300mg

• • Taste = Depends on the flavor bought, but most taste rather sweet with a slight artificial flavor
  • Vitamins/Minerals = Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Vitamins B3, B6, B12, C
  • Sweetener(s) Used = Acesulfame K, Sucralose
  • Pros = Higher in vitamins and minerals than any other option, 0 calories, 0 sugar or added sugars
  • Cons = Artificial sweeteners may cause gastrointestinal discomfort among other health issues

Red Bull Zero

Red Bull Zero can be enjoyed on keto but is classified as dirty keto due to multiple artificial sweeteners that may cause health issues if it’s had frequently or in large quantities. However, all sizes are allowed on keto as long as in just one serving.

Source: Jesper Brouwers via Unsplash⁷

Lo Carb Monster

While not as keto-low carb diet adherent as the others, Lo Carb Monsters could be enjoyed in moderation or on rare occasions on the ketogenic diet, but these are more suited for intuitive eating weight loss or even avoided altogether due to being the highest in carbs and calories. These may also cause irritability, irregular heartbeat, and other health issues.

Source: Emmanuel Edward via Unsplash⁸

Bang Energy Drinks

Bang is keto-friendly and offers the most zero-carb flavors among the options we reviewed. With 32 classic flavors, 6 keto coffee flavors, 4 sweet tea choices, 3 natural drinks, and 5 caffeine-free options, Bang stands out as the most versatile and flavorful choice.

Source: Breakingpic from Pexels⁹

While the 300mg of caffeine is the selling point for some energy drink fanatics, those with caffeine sensitivities may want to opt for an alternative.

Sugar Free Red Bull

• Fewest Carbs: ✘
• Fewest Calories: ✘
• Most Caffeine: ✘
• Best Taste: ✘
• Most Vitamins/Minerals: ✘
• Overall Winner: ✘

Red Bull Zero

• Fewest Carbs: ✘
• Fewest Calories: ✘
• Most Caffeine: ✘
• Best Taste: ✘
• Most Vitamins/Minerals: ✘
• Overall Winner: ✘

Lo Carb Monster

• Fewest Carbs: ✘
• Fewest Calories: ✘
• Most Caffeine: ✘
• Best Taste: ✘
• Most Vitamins/Minerals: ✘
• Overall Winner: ✘

Bang Energy

• Fewest Carbs: ✔
• Fewest Calories: ✔
• Most Caffeine: ✔
• Best Taste: ✔
• Most Vitamins/Minerals: ✔
• Overall Winner: ✔

Healthiest Low Carb Energy Drinks for Keto

Now that we’ve covered a few of the most popular low carb energy drinks and their adverse health effects as well as potential benefits, let’s take a look at even healthier low carb energy drinks that are conducive to the ketogenic diet.¹⁰

These top recommendations could aid in weight loss on their own or could be paired with the 3 steps to lose weight or any other weight loss efforts for maximum effectiveness.

3. Sparkling Yerba Mate Zero Sugar Energy

Yerba Mate’s sparkling zero sugar energy drinks have zero net carbs and calories and come in cherry lime, orange ginger and watermelon. With 160mg caffeine, these delectable drinks will offer an energy boost without empty calories or kicking someone out of ketosis.

These refreshing, energizing drinks are sweetened with natural stevia but also include artificial sweetener erythritol, so bear that in mind when consuming as many would consider this dirty keto.

Serving Size: 16oz

• 0g Carbs
• 0g Fat
• 0g Protein
• 0 Calories
• 160mg Caffeine

2. Zevia Energy

With zero carbs, Zevia energy drinks are also ketogenic and free of sugars and calories. Zevia uses natural ingredients and sweetens their drinks with stevia for a ketogenic energy drink everyone can feel good about.

These drinks have zero glycemic impact, are non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, and use no artificial colors or preservatives. Try Zevia energy drinks in mango ginger, raspberry lime, kola, and grapefruit flavors.

Serving Size: 12oz

• 0g Carbs
• 0g Fat
• 0g Protein
• 120 Calories
• 120mg Caffeine

1. Purps Plant-Based Organic Energy Drink

Purps organic energy drinks are our #1 choice for maintaining ketosis and its health benefits. With 0 carbs, 0 added sugars, several vitamins and minerals, and 120mg caffeine, Purps will keep anyone going with their Berry Superfruit, Cherry Guarana, or Citrusonic flavors.

These refueling, refreshing drinks are sweetened with organic stevia to make them clean keto. They’re also vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free.

Serving Size: 12oz

• 0g Carbs
• 0g Fat
• 0g Protein
• 0 Calories
• 120mg Caffeine

Sugar free Red Bulls and other popular low carb energy drinks are widely available but should be consumed in moderation due to their inclusion of synthetic sweeteners.

Rather than caffeinating with dirty keto artificially sweetened energy drinks, try a clean keto option with low or no carbs and all natural sweeteners, because although it won’t kick you out of ketosis with just one serving, when it comes to sugar free Red Bull keto compliance isn’t the only thing to look for in terms of healthiness.

Frequently Asked Questions