Hydration is more than just chugging water — it’s about balance, and that balance comes from electrolytes. Shockingly, it's estimated that up to 25% of older adults are chronically dehydrated, and here’s the kicker: When you're dehydrated, drinking more water without replenishing electrolytes can actually put you at a greater risk of electrolyte imbalance. So, if you’re sipping endlessly but still feeling fatigued, crampy or off your game, the best electrolyte powders might be the missing piece of the puzzle.
"Electrolytes help pull water into cells for hydration and facilitate muscle contraction," says Jaclyn Sklaver, CNS, LDN, a licensed dietitian specializing in functional sports nutrition. "Electrolytes are vital for energy production, heart health, pH balance and keeping your nervous system in check. Without them, all that water you’re guzzling might not even be hydrating you," she warns.
"Electrolyte powders are a simple, effective way to restore minerals and fluids lost through sweat, dehydration or illness," explains Amy Goldsmith, RD, sports dietitian and owner of Kindred Nutrition. She also adds that the right type and amount of electrolytes can help reduce cramping after a workout and support you when you're sick.
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So, what makes an electrolyte powder truly great? To find out, I combined my certified functional nutrition expertise with insights from four registered dietitians. Over two months, I tested 16 different powders, evaluating taste, solubility and ingredient quality. After much sipping, stirring and studying, I’ve narrowed down the list to the seven best electrolyte powders and drinks in 2025. Ready to find your perfect hydration match? Let's go!
A note on supplements
The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Such supplements are regulated far less stringently by the FDA than medications, with little evaluation of safety or effectiveness before they go to market. Supplements may also interact with other medications and aren't appropriate for all populations or health conditions. While our health writers personally select and test products that are evidence-based, it's important to talk to your health care provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine.
Best overall electrolyte powder
More electrolyte powders and drinks we like for 2025
LMNT
Form: Powder | Serving size: 1 stick (6 g) | Electrolytes included: Sodium, potassium, magnesium | Sodium: 1,000 mg | Carbs: 2 g | Added sugar: 0 g
LMNT has a loyal following. While researching this article, I crowdsourced opinions from friends and family, and for every three people I asked, two named LMNT as their favorite. During testing, it was a frontrunner for me too and was neck-and-neck for best overall.
The mix's high sodium content — 1,000 mg per serving — ultimately made it a better fit for those who sweat buckets during workouts or other hot-weather activities. Research shows that heavy sweating can cause sodium loss ranging from 0.5 g to 6.7 g of sodium per hour, depending on factors like exercise intensity and environment. For people in this category, LMNT provides the extra sodium needed to maintain electrolyte balance and hydration.
Taste is another key factor that sets LMNT apart. Its high sodium content gives it a distinctly salty flavor, which takes some getting used to. However, with its light sweetness to take off the edge, I ultimately found it enhanced the experience and I ended up sometimes craving this powder during the testing period. It also mixes well, leaving no clumps or residue behind — always a plus.
Beyond its sodium boost, LMNT's ingredient list is impressively short, with zero artificial sweeteners, flavors or added sugar. It also contains just 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving, making it a good option for people following a keto diet or trying to manage blood sugar levels. Katie Janeczek, RDN, LDN, also endorses LMNT, highlighting its suitability for people needing a higher dose of sodium, whether for athletic performance or specific dietary needs.
Trace
Form: Liquid | Serving size: 1/2 tsp (40 drops) | Electrolytes included: Magnesium, chloride, sodium, potassium | Sodium: 5 mg | Carbs: 1 g | Added sugar: 0 g
Unflavored electrolyte supplements offer versatility, allowing you to customize your hydration routine without altering the taste of your favorite beverages.
Trace Minerals ConcenTrace is the OG of mineral-based supplements and our top unflavored choice. The company has been a trusted name in mineral-based supplements since 1972, long before electrolyte supplements became trendy. Its flagship product, ConcenTrace, is sourced directly from Utah’s Great Salt Lake, offering naturally occurring minerals that are easy to absorb.
Because this supplement is concentrated, you only need half a teaspoon of liquid for a serious boost of trace minerals. Another bonus? You can easily adjust the dose to meet your needs.
During testing, I noticed that the taste was virtually undetectable at smaller doses, while higher doses (up to the recommended 40 drops daily) had a hint of saltiness. Because of this, you can easily add ConcenTrace to your favorite beverage without significantly changing the flavor.
Another great thing about ConcenTrace is that it's rigorously tested for potency and purity by third-party labs, so you know you’re getting exactly what’s on the label. While it’s designed for daily hydration and mineral replenishment, it’s worth noting that it’s not ideal for high-intensity workouts or athletes, due to its relatively low sodium content (5 mg). For those needing more sodium for athletic recovery, Trace Minerals offers a drink mix that combines ConcenTrace with vitamin C and additional sodium and potassium.
We're not alone in singing the product's praises. ConcenTrace has more than 17,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, with happy reviewers commenting on its ease of use and high quality. According to one, "I started putting this in every cup of water, and I find I am SO MUCH less thirsty and my urine is normal." Of course, no product is perfect. Common complaints include the price and the salty flavor — especially when used at the maximum recommended dose.
Precision Hydration
Form: Powder | Serving size: 1 packet (20 g) | Electrolytes included: Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium | Sodium: 500, 1000 or 1500 mg, depending on strength | Carbs: 17 g | Added sugar: 16 g
Precision Hydration is our top option for athletes, thanks to its thoughtful formulation and third-party testing. Notably, the powder comes in three different strengths, each varying the amount of electrolytes provided, allowing you to choose the one that works best for your activity level.
Another bonus for athletic performance is the inclusion of carbs and sugar. While added sugar isn't necessary for daily hydration, it can be helpful for athletes looking to boost energy levels and replenish glycogen stores. As Emily Hulse, RD, founder of Emily Grace Nutrition, explains, "Electrolyte powders do not need to contain sugar to be effective, but sugar does help increase micronutrient digestion and absorption. In addition, sugar can be useful if you are drinking your electrolyte beverage during a workout for quick energy."
Precision Hydration drink mix is certified by Informed Sport, meaning it's been tested for — and found free of — substances banned by most competitive sports organizations.
In addition to an impressive formulation, the powder has an enjoyable thirst-quenching flavor. As someone who can't tolerate sugary drinks during intense exercise, I was happily surprised by its subtle sweetness, making it enjoyable to sip mid-workout. Thanks to its single-serving packaging, the powder is also easy to throw in a gym bag for on-the-go hydration.
One Amazon reviewer called these electrolytes the best hydration product they've used. They add, "Most of my training and competition is in or around the ocean, and often it can be difficult to know if I am having hydration issues — usually I don't notice until it is too late and the cramping and headaches begin. Because of the different strengths available, I can use the 500 on a daily basis and then switch to something stronger if the day is a really tough one, or if it is exceptionally hot. With other hydration products, I just didn’t have this flexibility."
It's worth noting that Precision Hydration is also available as effervescent tablets. However, I didn't love that the tablets contain artificial sweeteners.
Ultima Replenisher
Form: Powder | Serving size: 1 stick (3.6 g) | Electrolytes included: Potassium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, calcium, phosphorus | Sodium: 55 mg | Carbs: 0 g | Added sugar: 0 g
Is it OK to drink electrolytes every day? According to Sklaver, the answer is yes — within reason. She explains that drinking electrolyte beverages daily is fine as long as you're not overdoing it. The key is choosing a formula that fits your needs without adding unnecessary sodium or sugar to your diet. And that’s exactly where our top choice for everyday use, Ultima Replenisher, shines.
Ultima Replenisher is suitable for everyday use thanks to its slightly lower doses of electrolytes, short ingredient list and enjoyable taste. Unlike high-sodium options tailored for athletes, Ultima contains just 55 milligrams of sodium per serving, making it an excellent choice for low-intensity workouts. It also includes 100 mg of magnesium, an essential nutrient that plays a key role in muscle health, sleep quality and energy metabolism.
The mix's ingredient list is equally impressive and is free of sugar and carbs. Instead, it relies on stevia for a natural source of sweetness that won't spike your blood sugar levels.
The flavors are another major win. Unlike some electrolyte drinks that lean salty or artificial, Ultima tastes refreshingly sweet, more like juice than a typical sports drink. The grape flavor was my personal favorite, but with seven other options, there's something for every taste. Its ease of mixing, free of residue or grittiness, makes it a pleasure to drink.
Ultima Replenisher has over 25,000 mostly positive reviews online, with one Amazon reviewer calling it "One of the few and best tasting sugar-free, stevia-flavored electrolyte drinks on the market." The variety pack in particular is a fan favorite.
Ultima's product line also includes mixes designed to support gut health and curb cravings. While it was tasty, I didn't notice any differences in my digestive health or appetite when taking it.
DripDrop
Form: Powder | Serving size: 10 g | Electrolytes included: Sodium, potassium, magnesium | Sodium: 330 mg | Carbs: 9 g | Added sugar: 7 g
If you lead an active lifestyle or work a demanding job, always on your feet — looking at you, health care professionals and first responders — Drip Drop Fast Hydration is a top-notch choice. It offers a well-balanced mix of sodium, potassium and magnesium in doses shown to support hydration. It also includes zinc and vitamin C to support your immune system and keep pesky colds at bay.
The mix includes 7 grams of added sugar, providing a quick energy boost to power you through your day. For those who prefer to skip the sugar, there's also a Zero Sugar version with the same electrolyte profile, plus B vitamins to support energy production.
DripDrop Fast Hydration sachets taste delicious, although they are noticeably sweeter than some of our other top contenders. The sweetness, however, works in its favor. Because it’s sweetened with sugar, there’s no artificial or bitter aftertaste often associated with stevia or monk fruit. The result is an enjoyably smooth, sweet drink.
Sklaver also approves of DripDrop, saying, "It provides a good ratio of electrolytes and carbohydrates to refuel and hydrate athletes at an efficient rate."
Types of electrolyte powders and drinks
Electrolyte drinks come in multiple forms to suit different preferences and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
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Sport hydration mixes: Designed for athletes and those engaging in high-intensity activities, these mixes typically contain higher amounts of sodium and carbohydrates, often in the form of sugar. They help replenish energy and electrolytes lost through intense sweat sessions or endurance sports.
Sugar-free: These options provide electrolytes without the inclusion of added sugar. Sugar-free mixes are typically sweetened with calorie-free alternatives like stevia, monk fruit, sucralose or acesulfame potassium. Some also use sugar alcohols like allulose or erythritol.
Daily hydration powders: Ideal for everyday hydration, these powders are mixed into water for a quick and easy electrolyte boost. They typically contain lower doses of electrolytes, making them suitable for maintaining hydration without overloading your system. Some have a touch of sugar, while others are completely sugar-free.
Tablets: Effortless and convenient, electrolyte tablets dissolve in water within a minute or two. They’re easy to transport, mess-free and provide a consistent dose of electrolytes without requiring scooping or measuring.
Liquid concentrates: These come in a liquid form and are often super concentrated, requiring just a few drops for a potent dose of electrolytes. They mix easily into beverages and are a great space-saving option for on-the-go hydration.
Ready-to-drink: Perfect for grab-and-go convenience, these pre-mixed electrolyte drinks don’t require any preparation. While they’re less travel-friendly due to their bulk, they’re great when you want hydration without any fuss.
Caffeinated options: Some electrolyte powders include caffeine, catering to those who need an energy boost along with hydration. These are typically marketed as energy-hydration hybrids. Always check the label for caffeine content, especially if you're avoiding stimulants.
Natural and organic powders: Designed for those who prefer a more minimal approach, natural or organic electrolyte powders are free from artificial ingredients and fillers. They often feature fruit-derived flavors, coconut water powder and natural sweeteners like cane sugar, stevia or monk fruit.
Factors to weigh in purchasing electrolyte powders and drinks
Finding the right electrolyte powder for your needs can make a big difference in your hydration status and energy levels throughout the day. Here's what to consider when selecting the best electrolyte powder or drink:
Electrolyte content
One of the most important considerations is the electrolyte content and balance. According to Janeczek, key electrolytes (and amounts) to look for include:
Sodium (300-700 mg per serving): Crucial for fluid retention and maintaining blood pressure
Potassium (100-200 mg per serving): Balances sodium and supports muscle and nerve function
Magnesium (10-50 mg per serving): Supports muscle function and reduces cramping
Calcium (10-20 mg per serving): Assists in muscle contraction and nerve signaling
Chloride (300-5700 mg per serving): Works with sodium to regulate fluid balance
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines. Goldsmith highlights that electrolyte needs vary by individual, explaining, "On average, people can lose about 500 mg of sodium per hour from sweat. When replenishing sodium, it's also important to restore potassium." Health guidelines recommend consuming less than 2,000 mg of sodium per day, while aiming for more than 3,510 mg of potassium daily.
To determine the right balance for your specific hydration and recovery needs, it's best to talk with a fitness or nutrition professional.
Flavor options
Electrolyte drinks come in a wide range of flavors, and many brands offer variety packs, allowing you to test a few flavors out before committing to a large container. Whenever possible, opt for powders made with natural flavors instead of artificial ones.
Sugar content
As a general guideline, our experts recommend avoiding sugar in electrolyte powders unless you're engaging in intense or endurance-based exercise. Sklaver explains that a small amount of carbohydrates can aid hydration by helping cells absorb electrolytes through the sodium-glucose co-transport mechanism in the gut. It can also provide an energy boost for workouts.
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That said, too much sugar can be counterproductive, so aim to keep added sugar content below 7 g per serving unless your activity level demands more.
Caffeine content
Basic electrolyte powders typically don't contain caffeine, but if a product promises an energy boost, it’s worth double-checking the label. Caffeine-containing powders can be a good fit if you're looking for that extra kick and aren’t sensitive to caffeine. However, if you'd rather avoid the stimulant, opt for caffeine-free supplements instead.
Artificial ingredients
Artificial ingredients appear on the labels of many electrolyte drinks, so it’s essential to read the packaging carefully. Hulse advises, "Unfortunately, some electrolyte drinks contain excessive added sugar, artificial sweeteners, food dyes, coloring and more. As a registered dietitian, I believe that less is best!"
Ideally, choose electrolyte drinks with high-quality ingredients and steer clear of products that rely on artificial sweeteners, flavors or colors.
Intended use
Consider how you intend to use the electrolyte powder. Are you highly active, or is your lifestyle more sedentary? Will you be using it daily, or is it primarily for replenishing electrolytes after intense workout sessions? Use your answers to guide you to the right product.
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For those with active lifestyles, a powder with a higher concentration of electrolytes may be best. On the other hand, if you’re simply seeking a hydration boost for everyday use, a less concentrated option might suit your needs.
Additional nutrients
While electrolytes are the main focus, many powders are fortified with nutrients like B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc, which can provide additional benefits if you're not getting enough of them in your diet. That said, products containing added nutrients could lead to excessive nutrient intake if you're already taking a multivitamin or other dietary supplement.
Third-party testing
Most electrolyte powders fall under the category of drinks rather than supplements, which means third-party testing is less common. However, I always appreciate it when a product is verified for quality, purity and potency by a third-party agency. When a brand goes the extra mile to include this testing, it’s an automatic advantage in my book.
Safe-for-sport certifications from NSF or Informed Sport are particularly important to look for if you're a competitive athlete.
Value
Naturally, your budget is an important consideration. Electrolyte supplements generally range from $0.70 to $2 per serving, but opting for the cheapest option isn’t always the best idea. Lower-priced powders often use lower-quality ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners and flavors. On the flip side, there’s no need to splurge on the priciest option either. Aim for a balance between price and quality, and choose a powder that delivers the best overall value for your needs.
How we chose electrolyte powders and drinks
Finding the best electrolyte powders started with expert advice. I consulted four registered dietitians, including two sports nutrition specialists, to determine the most effective ingredients and ideal electrolyte ratios. Combining their insights with my experience as a certified functional nutritionist, I researched more than two dozen products that met the recommended criteria for quality and performance.
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From there, I selected 16 promising options to test. Each powder was mixed according to package instructions with the help of a milk frothing wand to ensure thorough blending. Over two months, I evaluated the products based on taste, solubility, ingredient quality and how they made me feel during and after use. My partner also joined the testing process, providing independent ratings for consistency.
After comparing results, I identified the seven top-performing electrolyte powders that excelled across all categories.
FAQs
What is the difference between sports drinks and electrolyte drinks?
The biggest difference is the sugar and carbohydrate content. "Sports beverages are marketed toward athletes, and as a result have a different makeup, usually including more sugar for energy during athletic performance," says Hulse. Conversely, electrolyte drinks often have less or no sugar and focus more on replenishing your mineral status, she explains.
Can electrolyte powders and drinks help with hangovers?
Yes and no. "They can help alleviate symptoms by replenishing lost fluids and electrolytes, particularly sodium and potassium, which may be depleted due to dehydration from alcohol consumption. However, they won’t directly address alcohol’s impact on liver function or fatigue," says Janeczek.
Should I choose an electrolyte drink instead of water?
Reaching for electrolytes rather than water depends on the situation. Janeczek notes that electrolyte drinks are more important during or after intense exercise, illness or heat exposure, when you need to replace electrolytes lost through sweat. But for day-to-day hydration needs, water is usually sufficient unless you have specific electrolyte deficiencies.
Can I have electrolyte drinks every day?
If you're in good health, having an electrolyte drink daily is generally fine, according to Sklaver. However, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor to ensure it’s suitable for your specific needs.
Is it better to drink electrolytes during or after a workout?
According to Sklaver, the ideal time to drink electrolytes is before a workout. "This is called pre-hydration and helps prevent dehydration," she explains. "Once you are already dehydrated, you have started the damage on a cellular level," she adds.
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For optimal hydration, Sklaver suggests having an electrolyte drink about 45 minutes before exercising and continuing to sip during your workout.
Other products we tested
Nuun: Nuun is a fan favorite, offering both tablets and powders with a solid electrolyte blend. While they dissolved and mixed seamlessly, the flavor didn't quite hit the mark for me. There's nothing objectively wrong with them — they just weren't my favorite.
Laird Superfood Hydrate Coconut Water: I had high hopes for Laird powders because their ingredient list is the most impressive of the bunch. Unfortunately, the flavor didn't resonate with me. If you enjoy a mild, coconut-forward electrolyte powder, though, this might be a great fit for you.
Salud Hydration: Salud Hydration powders had an excellent flavor profile and blended easily. However, the inclusion of sucralose was a deal-breaker for me. If you're OK with artificial sweeteners, these could be worth considering.
Native Path Native Hydrate: This keto-friendly powder offers a good mix of electrolytes, but leans more toward a vitamin, mineral and amino acid powder than a dedicated electrolyte powder. The flavors were a little too sweet for my taste, but they mixed well.
Tailwind Nutrition Rapid Hydration: Tailwind powders dissolved beautifully, but the flavor left me underwhelmed. It wasn't unpleasant, just lacking the boldness I prefer. Again, not a bad choice by any means, just not my favorite.
Gnarly Hydrate: Gnarly's powders also fell short in the flavor department, feeling a bit bland overall. They could benefit from a touch more salt to enhance the taste. That said, they mixed well and were easy to prepare.
Just Ingredients Electrolytes: These powders boast an impressive ingredient list with natural, often organic components and a well-balanced electrolyte blend suitable for daily hydration. However, the mix didn't dissolve well, had a slightly off-putting smell and the flavor was stronger than I'd prefer — it definitely needed watering down.
Protekt Hydration Supplements: I love the concept of Protekt's liquid pouches, which make mixing a breeze. The fact that they're veteran-owned is also a big plus in my book. Unfortunately, the flavors weren't for me, and I noticed an aftertaste that detracted from the overall experience.
Cure Hydration: Cure Hydration powders taste fantastic, with a wide variety of flavors and high-quality ingredients. That said, they're a little lacking in the electrolyte department, offering only potassium and sodium with no magnesium. If you're already taking a magnesium supplement, these could be a good addition.
Meet our experts
Amy Goldsmith, RD, sports dietitian and owner of Kindred Nutrition
Katie Janeczek, RDN, LDN, registered dietitian nutritionist at Ciba Health
Jaclyn Sklaver, CNS, LDN, licensed dietitian with a focus on functional medicine sports nutrition
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
