The best pre-workouts for strength and endurance don't need to have artificial sweeteners.

You can still have a great workout by using some of the best available options. 

If you want something with low caffeine, then check out Bulk or Lean by Transparent Labs.

For something very strong, Kaged Elite is a great choice. 

But if you want something with a moderate amount of caffeine then Altius by Jacked Factory is a good pick. 

These pre-workouts are naturally flavored and don't have artificial sweeteners so you can feel better about what you're putting into your health in the long-run. 

There are a few common types of artificial sweeteners that are commonly used in powder-based supplements.

If you want to make the most of your health in the long run, then it's probably best to avoid these:

• Saccharin (Sweet'N Low®, SugarTwin®)
• Acesulfame K (Sunett®, Sweet One®)
• Sucralose (Splenda®)
• Aspartame (NutraSweet®, Equal®)

Saccharin:

Saccharin is known to be Sweet'N Low, which is said to be 300-400 times sweeter than sugar and was first made in 1879 and it was produced on a massive scale during the shortage of sugar in world war 1. 

They are commonly used because they have a reputation for being the better option for diabetics and teeth health.

Saccharine is made in a lab by oxidizing o-toluene sulfonmide (or phtalic anhydride).

Although this is generally considered to be a safe artificial sweetener, it was linked to bladder cancer in rats in the 1970s. 

Since recent studies are not able to replicate this effect, it's one of the reasons why many are cutting out this artificial sweetener. 

Aspartame-Potassium (ACE-K):

Aspartame (or ACE-K) is also known as Sunett, Sweet One, NutraSweet, or Equal.

Being 200 times sweeter than sugar, it was first created in 1965 and was approved by the FDA in 1981.

It's a low-calorie option and is used in diet drinks. 

It's often used in combination with other sweeteners to provide a taste that's closer to sugar.

Ace-K is heat-stable, making it suitable for use in cooking and baking.

Like aspartame, Ace-K has been approved for use by major food safety authorities.

However, some studies have raised concerns about its safety, leading to ongoing debate.

Aspartame

Aspartame, on the other hand, has a taste that's closer to sugar than most artificial sweeteners.

However, it's not heat-stable, meaning it can lose its sweetness when heated.

This limits its use in cooking and baking.

Aspartame is a synthetic sweetener made of two naturally occurring amino acids, phenylalanine, and aspartic acid. 

Although our bodies turn this sweetener into methanol, it's toxic when in large amounts. 

Methanol goes further and breaks down into formaldehyde, which is a toxic carcinogen but it isn't noticeable as we tend to consume small amounts of aspartame. 

But studies on aspartame prove that it is concerning and should be avoided. 

Sucralose

First discovered in 1976, Sucralose is another zero-calorie artificial sweetener that is 200-400 times sweetener than sugar. 

It's made by replacing the hydrogen and oxygen bonds in sugar with chlorine.

Today, it's consumed as Splenda, which is a mix of sucralose, glucose, and maltodextrin and it's commonly used in baked goods as well as beverages. 

However, there are many concerns with sucralose as it's linked to many issues concerning health. 

It also has side effects on gut bacteria which can affect digestion. 

It's a sweetener to stay away from.

Stevia

Stevia is a tricky one as it's a natural sweetener but since it's heavily processed, it can have side effects. 

In its plant and natural form, it's a much better alternative to artificial sweeteners. 

But because it's bonded with sugar alcohols, it can have effects on the digestion system and it can have an impact on health for the long term. 

Stevia still has the lowest risk for side effects so if you do go with a sugar-free pre-workout then stevia is still a solid choice.  

Natural Sweeteners

On the other side of the spectrum, we have natural sweeteners.

These are sweeteners that are derived from plants, fruits, or grains.

They include sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit extract, and honey.

Natural sweeteners are often touted as healthier alternatives to sugar and artificial sweeteners.

However, it's important to note that just because a sweetener is natural doesn't necessarily mean it's healthier.

Some natural sweeteners, like honey and agave nectar, are high in fructose and can contribute to health issues if consumed in excess.

When choosing a sweetener, it's important to consider both its taste and its potential health impacts.

While artificial sweeteners can provide a low-calorie alternative to sugar, they're not without potential health concerns.

On the other hand, natural sweeteners can offer a more natural taste profile, but they're not always the healthier option they're made out to be.

As with most things in nutrition, moderation is key.

Artificial sweeteners have a wide range of side effects on health in the short and long term.

Not only can it affect appetite but it can also disturb healthy gut bacteria and can potentially increase the risk for diabetes. 

Anything that's as processed as artificial sweeteners surely won't have any benefit other than the sweetness it provides. 

Although artificial sweeteners like sucralose are approved by the FDA, there are still reasons to avoid using this in pre-workouts as the long-term effects are still being studied and it's basically a fake sugar. 

Mental Effects

There are studies that link aspartame to cognitive issues like headaches, moodiness, learning problems, and even seizures. 

It can also inhibit neurotransmitters that make you feel good, like dopamine and serotonin. 

Currently, these effects are not being linked to other artificial sweeteners but it's still a solid reason why to go with a naturally sweetened pre-workout and to avoid the ones using artificial sweeteners

Changes Appetite 

Artificial sweeteners have the same effect as sugar when it comes to affecting our food reward pathway. 

This means it can increase sugar cravings which can lead to weight gain. 

Although this is still being researched, this along with the other possible side effects makes naturally sweetened pre-workouts much more appealing.

Oxidative Stress

Using artificial sweeteners can increase free radicals, leading to elevated oxidative stress. 

While this hasn't been proven for humans, it's a solid reason to avoid artificial sweeteners. 

With more free radicals building up in our bodies, our cells become more likely to be damaged.

This can eventually lead to an increased risk for degenerative and chronic diseases and can increase the body's rate of aging. 

Naturally made sweeteners are a much safer option when it comes to supplements. 

There are enough processed sweeteners in drinks to make us more conscious about what we consume even if it's in a health supplement like a pre-workout.

There are plenty of benefits to natural sweeteners such as:

• Healthier for the brain
• Won't affect mood or appetite 
• Won't cause weight gain
• Comes from natural sources and isn't artificially produced

Some of the pre-workouts in this list are ranked in the video below...

FAQs

Can I take pre-workout supplements every day?

Yes, you can take pre-workout supplements every day.

However, it's important to follow the recommended dosage on the product label.

Also, remember that your body might build up a tolerance over time, so it's a good idea to cycle your pre-workout supplements, meaning you should take breaks from using them every few weeks.

Are there any side effects of pre-workout supplements?

Pre-workout supplements are generally safe for most people.

However, they can cause side effects in some individuals, including jitteriness, insomnia, stomach upset, and increased heart rate.

If you experience any adverse effects, it's best to stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Can I take pre-workout supplements on an empty stomach?

This depends on the individual and the specific supplement.

Some people might experience stomach upset when taking pre-workout supplements on an empty stomach, while others might not have any issues.

If you're new to pre-workout supplements, it's a good idea to start by taking them with a small snack to see how your body reacts.

How long before a workout should I take my pre-workout supplement?

Most pre-workout supplements should be taken 20-30 minutes before your workout.

This gives your body enough time to absorb the ingredients and start feeling the effects.

Can I take pre-workout supplements for non-gym workouts like yoga or pilates?

Yes, pre-workout supplements can be beneficial for any type of workout, not just gym workouts.

They can help increase your energy, focus, and endurance, which can be beneficial for activities like yoga and pilates as well.

Are pre-workout supplements suitable for beginners?

Yes, pre-workout supplements can be used by both beginners and advanced athletes.

However, if you're new to these supplements, it's a good idea to start with a half dose to assess your tolerance.

Can I use pre-workout supplements if I have a medical condition?

If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, including pre-workout supplements.

Are all pre-workout supplements free from artificial sweeteners?

No, not all pre-workout supplements are free from artificial sweeteners.

It's important to read the product label carefully to check for any artificial sweeteners or other ingredients you might want to avoid.

Can I mix my pre-workout supplement with other beverages?

Yes, most pre-workout supplements can be mixed with water, juice, or other beverages.

However, it's best to check the product label for specific instructions.

Do pre-workout supplements replace a healthy diet and regular exercise?

No, pre-workout supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet and regular exercise.

They are designed to enhance your workout performance and should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and consistent exercise regimen.

The best pre-workouts for strength and endurance don't need to have artificial sweeteners.

You can still have a great workout by using some of the best available options. 

If you want something with low caffeine, then check out Bulk or Lean by Transparent Labs.

For something very strong, Kaged Elite is a great choice. 

But if you want something with a moderate amount of caffeine then Altius by Jacked Factory is a good pick. 

These pre-workouts are naturally flavored and don't have artificial sweeteners so you can feel better about what you're putting into your health in the long-run.