Energy drinks like Monster are popular, and some people are under the impression that they are healthier than soda. Both Monster and soda contain mainly sweeteners and water. However, Monster contains ingredients not found in soda. These ingredients may provide health benefits, but they may not be safe for some people.

Caffeine is the primary active ingredient in Monster energy drinks. The drinks contain approximately 160 mg of caffeine in each 16 oz. serving. In comparison, the amount of caffeine in a cup of brewed coffee varies from 95 mg to 200 mg, depending on the source and type of coffee.

Whether you participate in sports or simply exercise for recreation, you are familiar with sports drinks. Sports drinks provide energy for activity and ensure proper hydration. Athletes use them during activity to enhance performance. Gatorade is one of the most popular sports drinks on the market, consumed by many.

Living Essentials, the company that makes 5-Hour Energy, sold 350 million cans of the 2 oz. drink in 2009. 5-Hour Energy can be found at supermarkets, gas stations and office supply stores. TV ads for the drink are ubiquitous.

Energy drinks are marketed toward people who desire a boost in energy. According to an article in the March 2011 issue of "Pediatrics," 30 to 50 percent of adolescents and young adults reportedly consume energy drinks. Common energy drinks include Red Bull, Monster, Amp, Rockstar and 5-hour Energy.

Monster Energy is an energy drink made by Hansen Natural Corporation. The company markets several versions of this drink, and all of them contain taurine, an amino acid. Companies that market energy drinks claim taurine improves mental performance and gives you energy.

The sports drink Gatorade is a non-carbonated solution formulated to replenish sugar, electrolytes and fluid lost during strenuous physical activity. Although the mechanism is different, fluid and electrolyte losses also commonly occur when you're sick and may contribute to feeling poorly.

Monster Energy drink addiction can be a problem for teens, adolescents and older working adults. Adolescents and adults may be consuming this beverage and the drug it contains -- caffeine -- to fight for increased energy and stamina.

The original XS Energy Drink is offered as a low-calorie option for those who want the caffeine boost that energy drinks offer without the extra calories from sugar and carbohydrates. EX Energy Drink, which contains some essential nutrients, is high in B vitamins. MayoClinic.

Gatorade is a sport drink targeted toward athletes, but you don't have to be an athlete to benefit from drinking it. Gatorade was developed to combat the loss of fluids and electrolytes from perspiration. It is advertised as a thirst quencher as well as an effective beverage to rehydrate the body.

Monster Energy is owned by the Hansen Natural Corporation, and their beverages first hit the market in 2002. In a surprising contrast to Hansen Natural's reputation as a healthy, preservative-free beverage company, Monster Energy drinks have large amounts of caffeine, sugar and sodium.

If you need a perky dose of caffeine but don't want a traditional coffee, you could turn to an energy drink. The XS Energy Drink is one of your many options when it comes to such caffeinated, non-coffee beverages.