Energy Drink
Liquid sugar with nothing to slow it down — a rapid glucose and insulin spike, similar to soda.
FatTonic Facts
Energy Drink · per serving 1 can (250ml)
Avoid · strongly works against fat-burning
| Factor | Amount | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Start | 100.0 | |
| Glycemic load | 18 | −39.6 |
| Sugar (g) | 26 | −20.8 |
| Processing | ultra-processed | −24.0 |
| Fiber (g) | 0 | 0.0 |
| Protein (g) | 1 | +0.7 |
| Glycemic index | no published test found | |
| Carbs (g) | 26 | |
| Fat (g) | 0 |
Score model v1
Nutrients: USDA FoodData Central, record 173210 (Beverages, Energy drink, RED BULL), public domain, checked 2 Oct 2026.
Glycemic index: no published test found. Searched 28 Oct 2026 in Atkinson et al., International Tables of Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Values: 2008: no carbonated energy drink in Table A1 (no. 51 is a flavoured milk, no. 86 a protein drink mix). The score still uses 70, a value with no recorded source, until a test is found.
Per 100 g (USDA record; serving 250 g): carbs 10.2, sugar 10.2, fiber 0, protein 0.5, fat 0 g.
What this means for fat-burning
Why this score: glycemic load 18 set it, −39.6 points. Source: USDA FoodData Central, FDC 173210.
Its high sugar content is the main reason to keep portions in check. Being ultra-processed, it is also easy to overeat.
See how your whole day scores — free Metabolic Score →This food and 199 more, scored on your phone.
Among the 200 rated foods
Energy Drink scores 16, rated Avoid. It scores higher than 4% of the 200 rated foods.
Rated foods per band: Avoid 0–19: 11; Poor 20–39: 23; Moderate 40–59: 34; Good 60–79: 45; Excellent 80–100: 87.
Frequently asked questions
Does energy drink spike insulin?
Glycemic load 18 for 1 can (250ml); FatTonic Score 16/100 — it strongly works against fat-burning.
Is energy drink good for fat loss?
Avoid (16/100): energy drink strongly works against fat-burning.