Author: Oleksandr Maksymenko (5 years as FPA-Certified Nutritionist, MS in Sports Dietetics)
Pre Workouts are some of the most popular and useful supplements available. In this article we’ll be covering your options for the best pre workout without artificial sweeteners.
Whether you’re looking for pre workouts without sucralose, pre workout without acesulfame potassium, or a preworkout with stevia, this list has got you covered. While many pre workouts are full of different sweeteners, these are the 7 best options for a pre workout with no artificial sweeteners.
In a hurry?
In a hurry?
In a hurry and can’t keep reading? How about you check out the Transparent Labs' Lean.
Transparent Labs' Lean is the best pre workout for weight loss and overall performance, free of artificial sweeteners, with a formula backed by clinical studies and featuring 180mg caffeine, 6g Citrulline Malate, 2g Beta-Alanine, and 2.5g BCAAs, available in 10 different flavors.
Choosing a pre-workout complex without artificial sweeteners may be beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, some people may have sensitivities or allergies to certain artificial sweeteners, which can cause digestive issues or other adverse reactions.
By opting for a pre-workout supplement without artificial sweeteners, these individuals can avoid such problems and still enjoy the benefits of the supplement.
Secondly, some people prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners altogether, as they may have concerns about the potential long-term health effects of consuming these additives. While there is ongoing debate about the safety of artificial sweeteners, choosing a pre-workout complex without them can provide peace of mind for those who prefer a more natural approach to nutrition.
Finally, pre-workout supplements that do not contain artificial sweeteners may be less likely to have artificial aftertaste. This can make the supplement more pleasant to drink and easier to incorporate into a pre-workout routine.
Our team of certified experts, nutritionists, and pro athletes thoroughly tested 11 pre workouts without artificial sweeteners, but only 7 of them met our high standards and ended up being included in this list.
Each pre workout was evaluated against 4 key criteria, and our team spent 3 weeks testing them. We update this list all the time, so leave a comment and let’s chat!
Top 7 Best Pre Workout Without Artificial Sweeteners Reviewed
1. Lean Ergogenic Training & Fat-Loss Formula – Top Pick
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Fat-Loss, Cutting, Increase Energy
- Flavor: Strawberry Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Sour Peach, Blue Raspberry, Green Apple, Orange, Cherry Limeade, Sour Grape, Watermelon, Tropic Punch
- Caffeine: 180mg
- Special Ingredients: Citrulline Malate, Beta-Alanine, BetaPure, L-Carnitine, L-Theanine, BioPerin
- Package Information: 495g (30 servings)
- Serving: 16.5g
- Company Founded: 2015
- Recommended by Athletes: Hafthor Bjornsson, Paul Sklar, Sean Harris
Our top pick for the best pre workout without artificial sweeteners is Lean from Transparent labs. Featuring a formula designed to aid with fat loss as well as boosting performance while training, Lean is a great choice for anybody looking to lose weight, or for those who just want a solid all-around pre workout.
Overall this is the best pre workout without sucralose, or any other artificial sweeteners, available on the market today.
Like many of Transparent Labs products, Lean features no artificial sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives. Staying true to their name, Transparent Labs supplements prioritize honesty for the consumer, offering effective products with no added fillers.
Photo by @lebouthillierlisa
Lean’s formula is specifically designed with fat loss in mind featuring what Transparent Labs calls a “potent Fat Burning and Thyroid Support complex.” They claim that all their ingredients are supported by clinical studies, and are all included at effective doses.
At 180mg caffeine per serving, Lean also offers a solid level of stimulation without being excessive. The supplement also features 6g of Citrulline Malate, 2g of Beta-Alanine, and 2.5g of BCAAs. It also comes in 10 different flavors, ensuring there will be something for everyone. Especially considering, this is a supplement designed for weight loss, the different flavorings will help scratch that itch for flavored drinks.
Positives:
Designed specifically for weight loss
Strong stimulation with low risk of jitters and tingling sensations
The widest variety of flavors on our list
Great value for money without compromise on quality
Could be better:
Low amount of servings for the price
Not suitable for those looking to bulk
2. Promix Pre-Workout - Runner Up
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Focus, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue
- Flavor: Lemon, Cherry Lime, Mixed Berry, Raspberry Lemon, Stim-free Raspberry Lemon, Strawberry Lemon, Tingle Free Lemon
- Caffeine: 200mg
- Special Ingredients: Beta-Alanine, Taurine, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C
- Package Information: 30 servings per package
- Serving: 9.5 g per 2 scoops
- Company Founded: 2011
- Recommended By Athletes: Odell Beckham Jr, Kelly Matthews, Alexa Idama.
Promix makes an ambitious claim that they offer world’s cleanest pre-workout. We don't know anything about this cleanliness contest, but the company's «no artificial anything» principle suits anyone looking for a pre-workout without artificial sweeteners.
Caffeine is 200mg which is enough to give you energy for a complete workout but is less likely to cause side effects, such as excessive over-arousal, anxiety or impairments of fine motor control. With a potent dose of tyrosine, you'll experience heightened focus and cognitive clarity, allowing you to stay in the zone and crush your goals.
There is enough beta-alanine to do a great job of improving workout even more. Keep in mind that the dose is high, so side effects in the form of paresthesia are possible. Although this is not dangerous, the company has a Tingle Free version without beta-alanine.
There are 2 scoops per serving, 30 servings per container with one of the lowest prices per serving, a really clean and rational composition, and a lot of natural flavors, vegan- and keto-friendly. What more could you want? Even more options? Ok, this product is also available in stim-free version for those sensitive to caffeine.
Positives:
No artificial anything for those who care
A balanced dose of caffeine
A simple but effective formula
Bargain price
Could be better:
Add citrulline and betaine to the formula
High single dose of beta-alanine (high risk of paresthesia)
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Focus, High-Intensity Exercise Performance, Training Volume, Enhanced “Pumping” Effect
- Flavor: Fruit Blast, Frozen Lemonade, Pina Colada
- Caffeine: 150 mg
- Special Ingredients: Creatine Monohydrate, Citrulline Malate, L-theanine, Rhodiola Rosea
- Package Information: 300g (30 servings)
- Serving: 10g
- Company Founded: No Info
- Recommended by Athletes: Alana Rany
Next great pre workout from 4 GAUGE. With no artificial sweeteners, it’s a great choice for those looking to avoid such substances in the supplements they’re taking. The delicious taste of 4 GAUGE is delivered through the use of natural flavors, dextrose, and the no-calorie sweetener stevia.
At 150mg of caffeine per serving combined with the amino acid l-theanine, 4 GAUGE Pre-Workout is in the sweet spot of stimulation, providing a solid hit of energy without significant jitters or crash. L-theanine has been shown to reduce the negative side effects of caffeine, such as jitters and anxiety.
Combining caffeine with l-theanine has also been shown to provide extended energy and endurance, which can be beneficial during physical activity or long periods of work.
You want pre-workout without that feeling like ants are crawling all over your skin? 4 GAUGE creates a non itchy pre workout. For boosting athletic performance they add 6000 mg citrulline, 1000 mg creatine monohydrate, and 500 mg carnitine, rhodiola and red beetroot extracts.
This smart mix avoids any harmful side effects, all while not compromising on its effectiveness.
Positives:
No jitters or crash, caffeine balanced with l-theanine
Non itchy without effectiveness compromises
Great for enhanced “pumping”
Cool shotgun shell for those who appreciate style
Could be better:
Only 3 flavors
Higher cost per serving
- Item Form: Powder
- Best For: Focus, Overall Exercise Performance, Muscular Endurance, Reducing Fatigue, Training Volume
- Flavor: Unflavored, Fruit Punch, Citrus
- Caffeine: 200mg
- Special Ingredients: Beta-Alanine, Creatine Monohydrate, Vitamins B
- Package Information: 240-480g
- Serving: 4.8-16g
- Company Founded: 2014
- Recommended by Athletes: Kenzie Mariano, Daniel Victor
Next up on our list is Naked’s Pure Pre Workout Powder. Completely vegan with no added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or flavors, Naked Energy is a great choice for virtually everyone.
Photo by @lifewith.kob
At 200mg of caffeine per serving, it’s one of the highest stimulant options on our list, but the product description still promises a clean boost of energy that won’t make you feel “like you may have a heart attack.” There is also a stim-free option for those looking for the benefits of a pre workout without all the caffeine.
The supplement features only 10 ingredients, so you can be confident there are no extra fillers being added in. Naked Energy is designed to be a solid no-nonsense pre workout with effective doses of ingredients like beta-alanine, l-arginine, and multiple different vitamins.
One thing to note is that the supplement does feature creatine, but at a dose of 1g per serving, you will not receive the optimal benefits of creatine. The recommended dose of creatine is 5g per day, so if you’re interested in this supplement, we recommend taking it separately alongside Naked pre workout.
Positives:
High stimulation per serving
Relatively short ingredient list
Stim free option available
Could be better:
No diversity of flavors
Unflavored option has unpleasant taste
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Endurance, Strength, Stamina, Focus
- Flavor: Lemon Berry, Passionfruit Guava
- Caffeine: 150mg
- Special Ingredients: Organic Maca Root, Organic Yerba Mate, Organic Matcha Green Tea, Organic Cordyceps Mushroom, Organic Rhodiola Extract, Organic Turmeric
- Package Information: 160mg (20 Servings)
- Serving: 8g
- Company Founded: 2015
- Recommended by Athletes: James Benefico, Bod Damn, Shayne Cerebe
Up next on our list is Organic Muscle’s Superfood Pre Workout, which is a fantastic choice for a naturally sweetened pre workout. What makes this pre workout unique is that nearly all of its ingredients are derived from organic whole foods.
From maca root, and yerba mate, to cordyceps mushroom and rhodiola extract, Organic Muscle’s product offers plenty of different superfoods in one convenient package. In fact, this product boasts that it features 20 adaptogenic herbs and superfoods.
Although the scientific evidence for the effects of such herbal ingredients on training is not numerous, it is a good choice for those who like to stay close to natural ingredients.
Photo by @quintellotm_
At 150mg of caffeine per serving, derived from several different organic ingredients, Organic Muscle promises a solid level of stimulation. Aside from being free of any artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, it also does not contain any hydrogenated oils, pesticide residues, or GMOs.
Keep in mind this is not a zero sugar option, as it is flavored with organic rice syrup. While many of the pre workouts on our list are zero calories, this one is 30 calories per serving. This is not something most people will be concerned about, however, at 6g of carbs per serving, it may not be the best choice for those on a keto diet.
Positives:
Made up of 20 organic herbs and superfoods
Free from GMOs, pesticides, and other potentially harmful substances
Low risk of jitters, crash, or itchiness
Could be better:
Does not contain some of the ingredients you may expect in a pre workout (Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline, etc.)
Doesn’t mix well with water and tends to be gritty
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Focus, Training Volume, Reducing Fatigue, Enhanced “Pumping” Effect
- Flavor: Blue Raspberry, Grape Limeade, Sour Apple, Sour Cherry
- Caffeine: 0 mg
- Special Ingredients: Citrulline Malate, Beta-Alanine, Alpha GPC, Taurine, Theobromine, Rhodiola Rosea
- Package Information: 314g (20 Servings)
- Serving: ~15.5-17 g
- Company Founded: 2018
- Recommended by Athletes: Nate Robinson, Chris Hyppa, Aaron Lee
Coming up next on our list is the first fully stimulant free option from Genius. This makes Genius a great choice for those with a caffeine sensitivity, or younger teenagers who still want the benefits of a pre workout.
Because of the lack of caffeine, Genius promises no jitters, no sleep disruption, while still providing natural energy, nutrients, and mood support.
The proprietary blend of key ingredients includes 600mg of AlphaSize, 25mg of AstraGin, 2g of CarnoSyn, and 150mg of ElevATP. The manufacturer states these all work synergistically to increase power output, improve vitamin absorption, improve recovery, and help to build muscle. This combination of ingredients proves that there is more to an effective pre workout than the stimulation it provides.
Genius prides itself on creating products that reject the unfortunate trend of supplement companies misleading their customers. They make sure that their supplements are scientifically backed and only contain ingredients that will provide their users with maximal benefits.
It’s worth noting that despite the product description claiming it is vegan, this product is produced in a facility that processes dairy. This means it may not be the best choice for those who follow a strict vegan diet.
Positives:
For those who avoid caffeine
Contains beta-alanine, citrulline and betaine in the required dosages
Completely vegan
Could be better:
Doesn't mix very well
Beta-alanine may cause tingling sensation
High price per serving
- Item Form: Powder
- Diet Type (best for): Overall Exercise Performance, Energy, focus, Enhanced “Pumping” Effect
- Flavor: Unflavored
- Caffeine: 200mg
- Special Ingredients: Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline, Creatine Monohydrate, L-Arginine, L-Carnitine, L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine
- Package Information: 228g (30 Servings)
- Serving: 7.6g
- Company Founded: 2010
- Recommended by Athletes: Joe Anklam, Ahmad Taha, Janelle Mistarz
Finally on our list is Do Vitamins Pure Pump pre workout. Like many of the other pre workouts on our list, Do Vitamins product boasts a formula designed to have as little filler as possible.
There is a long list of ingredients that Do Vitamins stay away from, including salt, sugar, fructose, sucralose, and aspartame, as well as artificial colors and sweeteners. The supplement does, however, promise efficacious results from the ingredients it does have, including beta-alanine, l-citrulline, and l-leucine.
Although the supplement does contain creatine, like many other pre workouts with creatine, it only contains 1g per serving, which is not enough to get maximal effects. Similar to Naked Energy, we recommend supplementing with additional creatine if you want the maximal effects from this popular supplement.
It’s worth noting that because of their commitment to not containing any sweeteners in their product, PurePump is fully unflavored. The brand is fully transparent about their product being “very bitter” as a result.
They recommend mixing in a small amount of liquid, or pairing with citrus flavors to mask this. If you’re someone who enjoys the flavor of pre workout, then this may not be the best choice for you.
With this being said, PurePump is an overall solid choice for a pre workout. With strong doses of all its ingredients, it promises clean energy, increased endurance, enhanced focus.
Positives:
Without unnecessary ingredients
Suitable for paleo, keto, and vegan diets
Some of the most efficacious doses on the market
Could be better:
The company admits it has an unpleasant flavor
The drink may not mix very well
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What Sweeteners are Usually Used for Pre-Workouts?
1. Artificial
Aspartame
One of the most common artificial sweeteners used both in pre workouts and diet sodas is aspartame. It is 200 times sweeter than sucrose, which means that you need a very small amount to give a sweet taste.
While some are concerned about its safety it has been studied hundreds of times and determined to be safe for human consumption, especially in those small dosages that a person uses with pre-workout complexes.
However, individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid aspartame, as their bodies cannot break down the amino acid phenylalanine, which is one of the components of aspartame.
Acesulfame-Potassium
Similar to saccharin, Acesulfame-Potassium is an artificial sweetener 150-200 times sweeter than sugar. It is commonly used alongside aspartame as it enhances and sustains the sweet taste of foods flavored by other artificial sweeteners. It was approved by the FDA in 1988, and is regularly tested for safety.
Acesulfame-Potassium
Another very common sugar substitute is sucralose, often known by the brand name Splenda. Splenda is chemically incredibly similar to sugar, it is altered slightly so that the body cannot digest and absorb it to use as energy. This is done by replacing hydroxyl groups in the molecule with chlorine atoms.
It was once promoted as being a “natural” sweetener, but since it does not occur in nature, this has since been disproven. If you’re looking to avoid this artificial sweetener, there are plenty of options available for a sucralose free pre workout.
Tips From the Champ
Olympic Weightlifting Champion
2. Natural
Stevia
Stevia is an herb native to South America that is 200 times sweeter than sugar. The use of stevia as a sweetener does not add extra calories to the product. Despite its sweetness, stevia flavored products are often associated with a slightly metallic aftertaste.
With this being said, stevia is one of the most popular and widely used natural sugar substitutes on the market. Stevia leaf extract is used as a sweetener in the Genius Pre Workout featured on our list.
Rice Syrup
Rice syrup (as well as other syrups derived from plant foods) are common sweeteners used in a multitude of food products. In recent years, organic rice syrup has become a popular alternative to high fructose corn syrup, which is a much more highly processed product.
It's worth considering the extra calories this sweetener adds. Rice Syrup is used as a sweetener specifically in the Organic Muscle Superfood pre workout on our list.
2 Benefits of Using Pre Workout without Artificial Sweeteners
✅ If You’re Worried About Safety
Approved artificial sweeteners are completely safe for human consumption but if you have some concern that consuming artificial sweeteners daily will lead to increased risk of disease, you have a good set of supplements without artificial sweeteners.
✅ Improved Flavor
This point is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the taste of natural sweeteners over their artificial counterparts. Especially with pre workouts, artificially sweetened drinks will often have peculiar aftertastes that may be off putting to some.
Drinks flavored with rice syrup, for example, will likely have more familiar tastes leading to a more enjoyable experience overall.
How to Find the Best Pre Workout Without Artificial Sweeteners?
1. Stimulation
With any pre workout, regardless of flavoring, stimulation levels are one of the most important factors to consider while making a decision. Everybody has different caffeine sensitivity, so be sure to understand what level of stimulation you want before making a decision.
With caffeine levels on our list ranging from 0mg to 200mg, there’s a wide range of stimulant levels to choose from. Especially if you’re a young teenager, choosing a stimulant free option may be the best choice for you.
2. Taste/Flavor
When it comes to choosing a pre workout without artificial sweeteners, taste plays a huge part in finding a product that’s right for you. These supplements may have a different taste from what you’re used to, especially if you frequently consume artificially flavored supplements.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to know exactly what a pre workout tastes like without trying it, so you may need to try out a few different options before finding a flavor you really enjoy.
3. Nutrition Label Transparency
Another important factor when considering supplements free of artificial sweeteners is their nutrition label transparency. It’s always worth double checking the ingredients list to see if the brand has snuck in any artificial flavorings, even if they’ve claimed to be free of these ingredients.
On top of this, nutrition label transparency is important to consider when deciding if a pre workout has the ingredients you’re looking for at effective doses. After all, what’s the point of taking a pre workout if it doesn’t give you the effects you’re looking for.
4. Value for Money
Finally, make sure the pre workout you’re buying is giving you solid value for the money you’re spending. Pre workout supplements can be very expensive, but if they provide the exact effects you’re looking for complete with a good taste, they are some of the most worthwhile supplements you can buy.
Still, there are plenty of pre-workouts on the market that have a high price tag for ingredient dosages that are well below what’s effective. Things to look out for are how many servings you’re getting per container, and what the ingredient doses look like as well.
FAQ
Do Pre Workouts Have Artificial Sweeteners
Yes, many pre workouts do contain artificial sweeteners such as sucralose, and aspartame. However, there are many pre workouts available that do not contain any artificial sweeteners, which is what this list is focusing on.
What Can I Replace My Pre Workout With?
It depends what you’re using it for. If you’re primarily using pre workout for a hit of caffeine, then replacing it with coffee, tea, or energy drinks may be a good choice. If you’re looking for specific ingredients, such as creatine, you could always supplement with those individually. However, for the optimal balance of all these things, it’s tough to beat a well formulated pre workout supplement.
Conclusion
Choosing a pre-workout complex without artificial sweeteners may be a good option for those with sensitivities to these additives, concerns about their long-term health effects, or a preference for more natural ingredients. You absolutely don’t need artificial sweeteners to have a great pre workout, and this is proven by all the supplements on our list. Our pick for the overall best pre workout without artificial sweeteners is Transparent Labs Lean Pre Workout.
What’s your go-to pre workout? Have you tried any of the supplements on our list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Also read:
References:
- Artificial Sweeteners // Uab: https://www.uab.edu/shp /nutritiontrends/recipes-food-facts /food-facts/artificial-sweeteners
- Acesulfame-K // Chemistry: http://chemistry.elmhurst.edu/ vchembook /549acesulfame.html
- Structuring sweetness: What makes Stevia so sweet? // Wustl: https://source.wustl.edu/2019/06 /structuring-sweetness-what-makes-stevia-so-sweet/
- What Is Acesulfame Potassium? // WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-is-acesulfame-potassium
- All Photos Made by Torokhtiy Media Team.
Why Trust Us?
Experience: 7 years
Specializing in: Weight management, Fitness / Sports nutrition
Oleksandr is a professional fitness nutritionist, certified by FPA (Fitness Professional Association). Oleksandr adheres to the principles of evidence-based dietetics and instills in his clients a healthy relationship with food - without strict prohibitions on favorite foods and regular disruptions. His main task – not only get a result for you, but also maintain it for many years, enjoying tasty and delicious food.
If you have any questions/suggestions/any other inquiry, you can reach out to us via email - reviews@torokhtiy.com
This article was written by our qualified author and proofread by an expert with proven experience. When writing the article we've used our expertise and data from authoritative, scientific, and evidence-based sources. The list of references is provided at the end of the article.
Our team of authors and experts includes professional athletes (Olympians, winners of European and World titles), PhDs in Sports Science, certified coaches, sports nutritionists, CSCSs, physiotherapists, and others. Read more about the team here, and more about how we test here.