Zipfizz vs Spark

Monday 18th March 2024

Let the battle of Zipfizz vs Advocare Spark begin.

I’ll be looking at the following criteria:

  1. Are they healthy?
  2. Whether they do what they claim
  3. Any additional benefits these two Zipfizz and Spark may have.

What Does Zipfizz Do?

Zipfizz Healthy Energy Drink

$37.32  in stock
36 new from $34.94
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of March 8, 2024 6:37 pm

Zipfizz is meant to boost your energy levels while providing vitamins and minerals essential for health.

Zipfizz contains antioxidants and helps to replenish electrolytes to keep you hydrated.

Overall, Zipfizz is supposed to act as an alternative to your traditional energy drinks like Redbull.

Zipfizz Ingredients Review

Zipfizz contains a mix of vitamins and minerals.

Caffeine

The herbal blend contains caffeine in the form of caffeine anhydrous, which is the dehydrated form of caffeine.

Caffeine is known for making people feel more alert and is tolerated well by many people.

Zip fizz also contains guarana seed extract to reduce fatigue.

Green Tea Extract

The rest of the herbal blend consists of green tea leaf extract.

Green tea leaf extract is high in antioxidants called catechins and alpha-lipoic acid.

Alpha-lipoic acid is beneficial as it is a fatty acid with antioxidant properties.

Green Coffee Bean Extract

Green coffee bean extract is derived from unroasted coffee beans.

The main benefit of green coffee beans is that they contain chlorogenic acid.

Chlorogenic acid is known to have antioxidant properties and has shown to slow the absorption of carbohydrates during digestion.

Normally, Chlorogenic acid would be lost during the coffee roasting process. However, when Green coffee bean extract is created Chlorogenic acid remains.

Consequently, you can get all the great benefits of Chlorogenic acid from Green coffee bean extract.

Grape Skin Extract

Lastly, the blend contains grape seed extract and grape skin extract.

The majority of the nutrients of grapes are in their skins.

One of the more famous antioxidants that grapes contain is resveratrol which may have many potential health benefits including disease prevention.

The tubes also contain taurine, an amino acid(a building block of protein).

The Zipfizz Energy Shot contains ginseng instead of the green coffee extract.

Ginseng may improve energy levels in addition to being an antioxidant. In addition to taurine, the energy shot also has arganine, another amino acid.

Sucralose and xylitol

Zippfizz is sweetened with a combination of sucralose, an artificial sweetener, and xylitol, a sugar alcohol found in many fruits.

It doesn’t raise blood sugar levels like regular sugar.

Likewise, instead of causing tooth decay, it kills bacteria that cause dental problems.

The Nutrition Facts

There are only 20 calories per tube. Zipfizz states that two tubes are the equivalent of one multivitamin tablet.

One thing to note is that vitamin B12 is a huge 41,667% of the recommended daily value.

Some argue that this is too high. There is no scientific research that supports someone having this much of vitamin B12.

Nonetheless, the recommended daily value is often inflated to make sure the vitamins are absorbed.

In addition, B12 supplements are normally considered safe.

B-vitamins are water-soluble, meaning that the body excretes any excess through urine. Here is the nutrient content, although the exact amount may vary depending on the flavor:

Zipfizz nutrition label zipfizz vs spark

Is Zipfizz Bad For You?

Overall, Zippfizz is fairly healthy as long as you tolerate caffeine well. There are a few concerns to mention, however.

  • Folic acid: Zippfizz uses folic acid which is the synthetic form of folate. Approximately 40% of people have a mutation of the MTHFR gene which causes the inability of the body to absorb folic acid. This results in an excess of folic acid in the bloodstream which can cause health problems.
  • Xylitol: While xylitol is a good alternative to sugar, some people may find that it causes digestive troubles such as bloating and excess gas. Also, make sure that your pets never have any of the powder or the mixed drink. Xylitol is toxic to dogs.
  • Sucralose: The brand name, Splenda is how most people know sucralose. The FDA considers it safe since most people tolerate it well, but there are concerns that it may have a negative impact on gut bacteria and metabolism. More research is needed before there will be certainty either way. Some people may experience digestive woes such as excess gas.
  • High B12 level: As mentioned, the body does excrete excess vitamin B12, but such a high dose might lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, anxiety, dizziness, and acne. This only happens in a few people, so you would need to see how you react.
  • Citric Acid: Although generally safe, citric acid can cause erosion in tooth enamel. Drink through a straw if you’re concerned.

Benefits of Zipfizz

Energy 

The main purpose of Zipfizz is to boost energy levels. If your food intake doesn’t cover all your nutrient needs, Zipfizz may fill in those nutritional gaps.

Consequently, you may feel more energetic.

If you find that a cup of coffee perks you up, then you will likely get the same effect from Zipfizz due to the caffeine content.

Hydration

Zipfizz contains electrolytes which contribute to proper functioning and hydration of the body.

In the FAQ section on the Zipfizz website, they only list potassium and magnesium as electrolytes.

However, calcium and sodium are electrolytes too and are included in the supplement.

Fill in Nutritional Gaps

Due to the vitamin and mineral content of Zipfizz, it can be used to fill some of the nutritional gaps that may occur in your diet.

Bear in mind that Zipfizz doesn’t contain all the micronutrients the body requires.

Not All vitamins and minerals are included in Zipfizz and Zipfizz shouldn’t be used to replace healthy foods.

Zipfizz Caffeine vs Coffee

There is only 100mg of caffeine per tube, putting it in the same range as the top end of the range of a regular cup of coffee (45-100mg of caffeine per 8oz cup).

A 16oz Starbucks Blonde Roast coffee has 360mg of caffeine. Their cafe latte or cappuccino (16oz) has 150mg of caffeine.

Flavors

  • Pink Lemonade
  • Orange Soda
  • Black Cherry
  • Fruit Punch
  • Blueberry-Raspberry
  • Pink Grapefruit
  • Limon
  • Peach Mango
  • Lemon Iced Tea
  • Berry
  • Orange Cream
  • Citrus
  • Grape

The energy shot is only available in Fruit Punch.

What are Customers Saying

From researching around the web, I found some common themes to what other people were saying.

More Energy: 

I found generally that people had an increase in energy. No surprise, down to the energy pact ingredients.

The caffeine gives a sudden kick of energy and alertness.

Likewise, the other various ingredients of green tea and vitamins keep a sustained energy boost, without a sudden energy drop due to a sugar crash.

Taste Great

Lots of users love the taste.

Zipfizz is fizzy. So the texture feels like a proper energy drink.

However, with zero sugar, it comes without the harmful effects of high sugar content.

Practical Tips

If applying Zipfizz to bottled water, make sure to leave some air space, as the bottle can get quite fizzy.

You can opt for using half a tube, if you like a weaker flavor and to save quantity.

Drink in the morning, or lunch and before any mental, physical exercise to get you through the day.

Wasteful 

Some users found the multiple tubes a bit wasteful. Not necessarily the best for today’s environment-friendly age.

Slightly expensive

Some users found Zipfizz slightly expensive. And prices go up and down.

However, in my mind, it’s relatively affordable. Likewise, it’s cheaper when compared to a can of Redbull which has much more sugar.

Pros and Cons of Zipfizz

Pros
  • Contains 10 vitamins and 8 minerals
  • Only 100mg of caffeine for energy without jitters
  • Contains electrolytes for hydration
  • Sugar-free
Cons
  • Contains folic acid instead of folate
  • High vitamin B12 content may cause nausea
  • Xylitol may cause digestive troubles in some people
  • New research shows sucralose may not be a healthy sugar substitute
  • Citric acid can cause some tooth erosion.

FAQ

Is Zipfizz safe for diabetics

For most diabetics, it should be safe. If you consume sucralose regularly your blood sugar levels should remain steady, however, it was found that people who rarely consume sucralose experienced a bit of a blood sugar spike.

Xylitol is low GI meaning it has little effect on blood sugar levels.

Does Zipfizz Have Side Effects on the Liver?

There have been no reports of liver side effects when using Zipfizz.

Is Zipfizz vegan?

It’s unclear.

Usually, in supplements, the taurine is synthetic and safe for vegans. However, it hasn’t been established whether the taurine used in Zipfizz is synthetic or not.

Is Zipfizz bad for your teeth?

Zipfizz does contain citric acid and malic acid. Research has shown that these ingredients can increase erosion in your tooth enamel.

However, there is a simple solution:)

If you are really concerned, then I would recommend drinking Zipfizz through a straw.

What Does Advocare Spark Energy Do?

AdvoCare Spark Canister (Fruit Punch), 10.5 Ounce

 out of stock
Amazon.com
as of March 8, 2024 6:37 pm

Advocare Spark Energy Fruit Punch 14 stick packs

$28.95  in stock
Amazon.com
as of March 8, 2024 6:37 pm

Advocare Spark is a sugar-free energy supplement that is full of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

Spark can help provide you with a sustained source of energy.

In addition, it’s low in sugar which makes it a great energy drink alternative.

Advocare Ingredients Review

Advocare Spark has a combination of vitamins and minerals to fill in nutritional gaps.

It has more amino acids than Zipfizz, namely tyrosine, taurine, and glycine.

These are not essential amino acids since the body can produce them, but athletes and those who exercise intensely have a higher need for them. Tyrosine, in particular, may improve mental function during stressful times.

Another ingredient that may benefit athletes is L-carnitine. The form used in Advocare spark is L-carnitine L-tartrate, which may help with muscle recovery after exercise.

Advocare Spark also contains choline, a nutrient that is used in the body for healthy functioning of nerves, the brain, and for the formation of cell membranes. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), many Americans consume less than the recommended daily intake. More choline is needed by those who aren’t getting enough folate.

In addition to using sucralose instead of sugar, Advocare Spark contains inositol.

This carbohydrate may improve blood sugar control and improve insulin sensitivity (the body’s ability to use insulin to control blood sugar levels).

Advocare Spark comes in sticks and a 42-serving canister.

The caffeine content is slightly higher than Zipfizz at 120mg per stick or scoop. 

The Nutrition Facts

Advocare spark nutrition info

Is Advocare Spark bad for you?

Overall, Advocare Spark isn’t too bad. While they do make use of artificial flavors, be aware that artificial flavors are safe for consumption when used as directed in food quantities. Here are a few concerns:

  • Sucralose: Advocare Spark relies entirely on sucralose as the sweetener.
  • Choline: Unlike the NIH, the University of Rochester Medical Center states that most people do in fact meet the daily requirements of choline through their diet and what their bodies make. While 500mg will not cause toxicity (which only occurs with doses of around 20g and up), it’s not recommended for those with bipolar disorder to take choline in supplement form.
  • Maltodextrin: In food amounts, this carbohydrate is safe, but it can cause blood sugar levels to spike. The quantity in Advocare Spark isn’t listed, and while it’s likely low, you may want to be careful if you are diabetic.
  • Citric Acid: Like Zipfizz, Advocare Spark contains citric acid, which can lead to tooth decay.

Benefits of Advocare Spark

Energy

The caffeine may give you an energy boost and as with Zipfizz, if you are lacking certain nutrients, you may feel that Advocare Spark gives you energy.

Fills in Nutritional Gaps

It can be used to supplement a healthy diet.

May Benefit Athletes

The addition of some amino acids and carnitine may help athletes and those who exercise regularly with muscle recovery.

Flavors

  • Cherry
  • Green Apple
  • Grape
  • Fruit punch
  • Mandarin orange
  • Pink lemonade
  • Mango Strawberry
  • Watermelon
  • Limeade
  • Blue Raspberry
  • Vanilla Latte (Limited Edition)

Pros and Cons of Advocare Spark

Pros
  • May boost energy levels
  • Contains 9 vitamins, 2 minerals, and 3 amino acids
  • Contains tyrosine which may improve mental performance during stress
  • Overall lots of quality ingredients.
Cons
  • Relies on sucralose as the sweetener
  • Diabetics may find that their blood spikes slightly
  • Choline supplementation isn’t suitable for everyone, namely those with bipolar disorder
  • Some people don’t enjoy the taste
  • Citric acid can cause some wear and tear on your teeth.

FAQ

How Much Advocare Spark Can You Consume in a Day?

1-3 servings.

Are There Side Effects?

If you are sensitive to caffeine you may experience side effects such as a racing heart and feeling wired.

Is Advocare Spark Vegan?

Yes. Advocare doesn’t list Advocare Spark under the products that contain animal products. The list can be found in the FAQs.

What Are Other People Saying?

I grabbed a couple of common themes of how other people found Advocare Spark.

These reviews come from Amazon:

Generally quite expensive. 

Buying on a consistent basis can be a bit pricey.

Tastes Yummy

Taste entirely depends on preference. However, most people enjoyed the taste. Some referencing it tasted similar to kool aid.

Generally, spark is not sickly sweet, and dissolves easily enough in water.

No Sugar spike and crash

The majority found themselves having an increase in energy and alertness. Great for long shift work, a pre-workout, or to get you up and ready in the morning.

It is a great coffee alternative. Energy without the jitters.

Which Energy powder is better?

Ingredients

Zipfizz contains more vitamins and minerals, including some electrolytes. It also has more antioxidants. Zipfizz, however, has the synthetic form of folate, folic acid, which isn’t safe for everyone to take.

Advocare Spark contains more amino acids and carnitine which aids muscle recovery and maybe better for athletes.

Sugar

Neither Advocare Spark or Zipfizz contain any sugar. Both use sucralose, but Zipfizz likely has less of it as xylitol is used as a sweetener too.

Company practices

In 2019,  a lawsuit ruled that Advocare operated as a pyramid scheme and was charged $150 million. They are now banned from using multi-level marketing.

They also violated five laws in California due to claims that Advocare Spark improved energy levels and mental clarity.

Zipfizz hasn’t had lawsuits as such.

However, there have been complaints in the case of people who haven’t felt it worked for them.

Zipfizz has a medical research background and the products are widely available online and in stores.

Zipfizz vs Spark: Final Opinion

In my opinion, Zipfizz has more nutrients, contributes to increased energy, and gives you an antioxidant boost.

It also does not contain artificial flavors, unlike Spark.

However, If you have trouble absorbing folic acid through an MTHFR gene mutation, Advocare Spark is the safer option.

I believe both Zipfizz and Spark are good energy boosters that are fine to add to your diet.

Nonetheless, be aware of their drawbacks.

Both do have sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener. So if your really health-conscious, it might be best to go for my alternative below.

Spark and Zipfizz Alternative

SOLSTIC Energy Drink Mix (30 sachets) by Nature's Sunshine NSPUK

Amazon.com
as of March 8, 2024 6:37 pm

Nature’s Sunshine Solstic Energy is a great alternative if you want to boost your B-vitamins.

There is no folate and it comes without sucralose or xylitol.

Nature’s sunshine uses stevia which is well tolerated by most people. Stevia is a natural compound derived from plants and free from sugar.

They also use citrus sweeteners derived from lemon, orange, mandarin, and pineapple. This energy supplement contains only 6mg of caffeine derived from guarana while ginseng and green tea extract contribute antioxidants and give a natural energy boost.

Be sure to check out more reviews below!

Read Reviews On Amazon

My Top List Of Alternatives!

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