When you sweat, you lose valuable mineral salts. It can sap your energy and negatively affect your performance in the gym. You can keep yourself hydrated throughout your workout by replenishing your electrolyte reserves using a supplement.
There’s a constantly growing electrolyte supplement market to cater to this need. In this article, we help you separate the best from the rest with our review of the top 10 electrolyte supplements on the market.
Top Best Electrolyte Supplements of 2024 Tested/Ranked:
- Best Overall: Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets
- Best Unflavored: HRDWRK Electrolytes
- Best Electrolyte Gel: Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel
- Best for Muscle Building: PerfectAmino Electrolytes
- Best Keto Friendly: LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets
- Best with Calcium: UCAN Hydrate
- Best for Energy: Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula
- Best with Collagen: Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen
- Best Organic: Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets
- Best Absorbing: Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder
How Much Do Electrolyte Supplements Cost?
Electrolyte supplements vary in price depending on their quality and versatility. Here’s a breakdown of the costs of our top 10:
| Category | Product | Name | Product Price | Price Per Serving | Why We Love It |
| Best Overall |  |
Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets | $25.82 | $0.64 | It comes in handy tablet form and is delicious. |
| Best Unflavored |  |
HRDWRK Electrolytes | $23.95 | $0.24 | Uses an advanced cramp relief formula to prevent stomach cramps. |
| Best Electrolyte Gel |  |
Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel | $29.95 | $2.50 | Comes in a natural fruit puree form. |
| Best for Muscle Building Friendly |  |
PerfectAmino Electrolytes | $74.00 | $1.62 | It’s fortified with essential amino acids. |
| Best Keto-Friendly |  |
LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets | $40.50 | $1.35 | Delivers the three key electrolytes in the ideal ratio. |
| Best with Calcium |  |
UCAN Hydrate | $24.95 | $0.84 | Contains calcium to promote dental and bone health. |
| Best for Energy |  |
Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula | $108.45 | $2.71 | It contains l-tyrosine to boost energy levels. |
| Best with Collagen |  |
Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen | $9.99 | $1.43 | Consists of B vitamins, vitamin C, and collagen peptides. |
| Best Organic |  |
Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets | $16.99 | $2.12 | Besides the key electrolytes, it contains 45 mg of vitamin C and 410 mg of chloride. |
| Best Absorbing |  |
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder | $21.07 | $1.05 | Uses magnesium citrate for faster absorption. |
Here are the top 10 best electrolyte powders on the market:
Best Electrolyte Supplement Overall
The best overall electrolyte supplement represents the best combination of electrolyte content, dosage, bioavailability, convenience, and price.
Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets
Nuun Hydration Electrolytes come in tablet form. The tablets dissolve in water to give a delicious electrolyte-enhanced drink. It’s available in four tasty flavors and contains no artificial flavors or sweeteners, stevia being the only sweetener used.
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Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets contain just one gram of sugar, making them suitable for people on a keto diet. The small, cylindrical container slips into your track pant pocket or gym bag for use on the go.
Who should buy Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets?
- People who want a supplement that is free of artificial flavors and sweeteners.
- Folks who want a supplement that they can carry with them when exercising.
Who should not buy Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets?
- People who want a vitamin C-infused electrolyte supplement.
Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets Coupon
Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets Coupon
Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets are effective, cost-effective, and delicious, making them our top pick for electrolyte supplements.
Best Unflavored
Unflavored electrolyte powders are versatile supps that can be added to recipes, smoothies, and yogurts without affecting their taste.
HRDWRK Electrolytes
HRDWK Electrolytes is a sugar-free powder marketed as a pre and intra-workout solution. Besides zero sugars, there are no carbohydrates, fillers, sweeteners, or dyes in this product.
Each serving of HRDWRK Electrolytes provides 600 mg sodium, 300 mg potassium, and 150 mg magnesium. Other ingredients include vitamin C, citric acid, and malic acid. This formulation uses a special cramp relief formula to prevent the cramping that may result from electrolyte depletion.
Each tub of HRDWRK Electrolytes contains a hundred servings, representing good value for money.
Who should buy HRDWRK Electrolytes?
- People who want a budget-friendly electrolyte supplement.
- People who routinely experience cramps during exercise.
Who should not buy HRDWRK Electrolytes?
- Folks who want an on-the-go electrolyte supplement.
HRDWRK Electrolytes Coupon
HRDWRK Electrolytes Coupon
The most cost-effective supplement on the list, HRDWRK Electrolytes deliver the best bang for your buck and are perfect for people on a calorie-restricted strict diet.
Best Electrolyte Gel
Electrolyte gels are a delicious ready-to-consume supplement that can be devoured on the go or mid-workout for an instant energy boost.
Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel
Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel is a single-serving supp made of fruit puree, powdered chia seeds, and brown rice syrup. This combination delivers a natural blend of key electrolytes and healthy carbs and protein.
Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel is available in seven flavors, including cafe mocha, blueberries, and chocolate raspberry. The taste is a highlight, with online reviewers raving about how great these flavors are.
Who should buy Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel?
- People who want a great-tasting electrolyte supplement.
Who should not buy Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel?
- Folks looking for a budget-friendly supplement.
Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel Coupon
Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel Coupon
If you are a runner or spend a lot of time outdoors, you will love the grab-and-go Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel supplement. It contains real foods that will have you feeling refreshed in no time.
Best for Muscle Building
The best electrolyte supplements for muscle building are fortified with amino acids to promote muscle protein synthesis.
PerfectAmino Electrolytes
PerfectAmino Electrolyte is a powdered supplement fortified with eight essential amino acids. Each serving contains 50 mg of magnesium, 300 mg of sodium, 250 mg of potassium, and 800 mg of trace minerals. You also get the 200 mg PerfectAmino blend of essential aminos.
There are no artificial ingredients in this powder. It mixes well with water to produce a delicious drink in either of two flavors; Watermelon Zen and Orange Slice.
PerfectAmino is the ideal electrolyte supplement for bodybuilders and gym goers training for muscle and strength gains as it combines aminos and electrolytes in a single powder.
Who should buy PerfectAmino Electrolytes?
- Folks who want extra amino acids to promote muscle building.
Who should not buy PerfectAmino Electrolytes?
- Those who want a product they can prepare on the go.
PerfectAmino Electrolytes Coupon
PerfectAmino Electrolytes Coupon
PerfectAmino Electrolytes contain eight essential amino acids which can help build muscle mass. Plus, they come in eight delicious flavors. You could use this supp as a pre or intra-workout drink.
Best Keto-Friendly
The best keto-friendly electrolyte supplement contains no sugars and very few carbs to help those on a low-carb diet.
LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets
Each container of LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets contains 30 stick packs. Each six-gram stick pack provides 60 grams of magnesium, 1,000 grams of sodium, and 200 grams of potassium, which is close to the ideal range of these three minerals.
With just two grams of carbs and no sugars, this is a keto-friendly electrolyte supplement. In fact, the high electrolyte levels in the product will help fight the keto flu effects. LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets are free of fillers and artificial ingredients.
The main ingredients in LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder packets are salt (sodium chloride), citric acid, magnesium malate, potassium chloride, natural flavors, and stevia leaf extract.
Who should buy LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets?
- People who are on the keto diet or a low-carb diet.
Who should not buy LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets?
- Folks who want sugar or carbs for energy.
LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets Coupon
LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder Packets Coupon
The LMNT Keto Electrolyte Powder is a highly rated supp and is great for people interested in a keto, low-carb or intermittent fasting lifestyle and a gluten-free diet.
Best with Calcium
Calcium is beneficial for promoting skin, hair, and nail growth. Adding calcium to an electrolyte product allows you to double the supplement benefits.
UCAN Hydrate
UCAN Hydrate is a powdered drink mix that contains zero calories, is sugar-free, and has no artificial ingredients. It includes five electrolytes, including the big three; sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Plus, it is fortified with 15 mg of calcium per serving.
This keto-friendly powder provides dehydration relief for gym goers and athletes while also boosting energy levels. Each 90-gram container contains 30 servings. It is available in several natural flavors, including berry, lemon-lime, pineapple, and watermelon.
Who should buy UCAN Hydrate?
- People who want a keto-friendly electrolyte supplement.
- Folks who want added calcium
Who should not buy UCAN Hydrate?
- People who want a vitamin C or amino acid enhanced electrolyte supplement.
UCAN Hydrate Coupon
UCAN Hydrate Coupon
UCAN Hydrate helps you recover from dehydration and hangovers, hydrate during illness, and combat heat exhaustion. Plus, its high magnesium content makes it a potent pre-workout energy drink.
Best for Energy
Our best energy-boosting electrolyte supplement contains ingredients that will help recharge your energy levels during exercise, including l-tyrosine and vitamin C.
Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula
Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula provides six key electrolytes and vitamin C. It also contains alpha-ketoglutarate, which can enhance sodium absorption, and l-tyrosine — a natural energy booster.
Notably, the Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula contains less sodium than many competitors. So, it may not be the best choice if you are in a hot environment. This is a gluten-free and GMO-friendly product.
Who should buy Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula?
- Those who want a powerful energy booster
Who should not buy Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula?
- People who are in extremely hot climates.
Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula Coupon
Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte/Energy Formula Coupon
Pure Encapsulations is a well-reputed brand in the sports nutrition industry and is known for its high-quality products. Its Electrolyte/Energy Formula is no different. It does what it says on the label and does it well.
Best with Collagen
Collagen is a form of protein that helps maintain strong and healthy bones. It also helps keep your heart and muscles functioning optimally.
Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen
Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen combines the key electrolytes, B-vitamins, vitamin C, and collagen peptides. The collagen content boosts hair, skin, and nail health. Each serving contains 45 mg of sodium, 670 mg of potassium, 72 mg of magnesium, 90 mg of vitamin C and five grams of pasture-raised, grass-fed collagen.
Each box of Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen contains individual serving packs, each of which weighs 11 grams. To prepare a drink, mix a packet with 12 oz of water, stir and enjoy. It’s available in two flavors.
Who should buy Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen?
- People who want extra collagen and/or vitamin C.
Who should not buy Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen?
- Those who want a high sodium content.
Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen Coupons
Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen Coupons
Vital Proteins Hydration + Collagen contains a host of ingredients that rehydrate you and support healthy hair, skin, nails, and joints.
Best Organic
Buying organic guarantees that you are getting a supplement that is 100 percent free of any fertilizers or chemicals.
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Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets
Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets are individual serving-size packets containing five electrolytes. Each box contains eight individual serving packs. This product is USDA organic certified, vegan-friendly, gluten-free, non-GMO, and artificial ingredient free.
Each serving of Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets delivers 50 calories, 300 mg of sodium, 180 mg of potassium, 45 mg of vitamin C, and 410 mg of chloride. There are 13 grams of carbohydrates, including nine grams of sugar.
Who should buy Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets?
- Those who are after an organic electrolyte supplement.
Who should not buy Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets?
- People who want a low sugar count.
Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets Coupon
Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets Coupon
Orgain Rapid Hydration Packets deliver five times the electrolytes and fifty percent less sugar than traditional sports drinks. It is arguably the best organic electrolyte supp on the market and comes in four delicious flavors.
Best Absorbing
The best absorbing electrolyte supplement uses magnesium citrate, which has been shown to absorb faster and more efficiently than any other form of magnesium.
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder has a high magnesium and potassium count. It also uses magnesium citrate, which is the most absorbable form of the mineral. It is a sugar-free product, making it ideal for those on a low-carb diet.
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder comes in a box and contains 16 individual serving-sized sticks. Each stick contains 3.2 grams of powder. This product is available in four flavors; raspberry, grape, lemonade, and pink lemonade.
Who should buy Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder?
- People who want a fast-absorbing electrolyte supplement.
Who should not Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder?
- People who want extra carbs for energy.
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder Coupon
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder Coupon
Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Hydration Powder contains six electrolytes and support minerals. The naturally flavored plant-based supplement contains zero calories, sugar, and carbs.
What are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are mineral salts carrying an electrical charge dissolved in a fluid. They assist in the regulation of fluid balance in the body, including the fluid volume of blood and the amount of water in our muscle cells.
Electrolytes are so named because they transmit nerve, or electrical, impulse in the body. They can be compared to electrically charged particles or ions in a flashlight battery. The most important electrolytes are magnesium, sodium, and potassium.
Magnesium
Magnesium makes up a part of more than 300 enzymes and body chemicals that regulate body functions, including energy production, making protein, and helping regulate blood glucose levels.
Magnesium also helps maintain body cells in nerves and muscles, signaling muscles to relax and contract.
The RDA for magnesium differs according to age and gender as follows:
- Males aged 14-18: 410 mg daily / Females: 360 mg daily
- Males aged 19-30: 400 mg daily / Females: 310 mg daily
- Males aged 31+: 420 mg daily / Females: 320 mg daily
Sodium
Sodium helps regulate fluid balance in and out of the body’s cells. It is also involved in helping muscles, including the heart, to relax, regulate blood pressure, and assist in the transmission of nerve impulses.
The words sodium and salt are often used interchangeably. However, there is a difference. Table salt is the common name for sodium chloride. It is 40 percent sodium and 60 percent chloride.
There is no RDA for sodium. The Adequate Intake (AI) is 1,500 mg daily. This accounts for sodium that may be lost through sweat.
Potassium
Potassium helps regulate fluid and mineral balance in and out of body cells. It also helps maintain normal blood pressure, transmit nerve impulses, and reduce the risk of kidney stones and bone loss. It is especially useful in helping protect against muscle loss and help preserve bone density with aging.
Potassium, as well as sodium, occurs naturally in food. Research indicates that eating foods high in potassium may help lower blood pressure by reversing the adverse effects of sodium on blood pressure.
The RDA for potassium for people aged 14 and older is 4.700 mg daily.
What are the Benefits of Taking an Electrolyte Powder?
There are several reasons that people take an electrolyte powder supplement.
Enhanced Workout Performance
Electrolyte supplements increase training performance by replacing lost water and electrolytes during exercise. Research shows that a water loss of just 1-2 percent through sweat can result in a loss of strength.
Illness Dehydration
Many illnesses can cause dehydration. It is important to replace the water and electrolytes during these times of sickness, especially if you have been vomiting. Electrolyte powders can help replace lost mineral salts.
Prevents Heat Stroke
If you are in an extremely hot environment, the body’s normal cooling system, which involves sweating, may stop working. As a result, the body temperature can rise to dangerous levels. Taking an electrolyte solution can help bring the body temperature down.
What to Look For in an Electrolyte Powder
With so many electrolyte supplements on the market, it helps to have some criteria to base your buying decision upon. Here are four things you should consider:
Portability
You should be able to easily take your electrolyte supplement while working out, whether it’s in the gym or during a long-distance run. Effervescent electrolyte tablets are the most portable, followed by capsules.
Ingredients
Look for the three key electrolytes — sodium, potassium, and magnesium. If you are a heavy sweater, choose a supplement with higher sodium content. People who suffer from muscle cramps should look for a supplement with a high potassium content.
The best supplements will also contain calcium and chloride.
Sugar Content
Most electrolyte supplements contain sugar to increase energy levels. If you are on a low-carb diet or otherwise want to keep your sugar intake low, pay careful attention to the per serving sugar content listed on the nutrition label.
Trace Mineral Content
Trace minerals help boost your overall health and fortify your immune system. The more trace minerals that a supplement includes, the better. Look for zinc, iron, selenium, and phosphorous in your electrolyte supplement.
How We Decided Our Picks
For our top 10 electrolyte powders, we looked at several products. In making our selections, we took the following factors into account:
- Price
- Purity
- Third-Party Testing
- Ingredient Transparency
- Range and dosage of electrolyte ingredients
FAQs
Why do electrolyte sports drinks contain carbs?
Carbs are included in electrolyte sports drinks to provide energy and boost water absorption. The standard carb concentration used in these drinks is 40-80 grams per liter. Drinks with more than 80 grams of carbs per liter are known as hypertonic solutions. They will slow down stomach emptying and reduce the speed of fluid replacement.
Are powdered electrolytes good for you?
Yes, powdered electrolyte powders are good for you. They will replace essential mineral salts lost in sweat and help you rehydrate. However, most powdered electrolyte powders are designed for athletes and people who exercise. If you are not sweating a lot, you probably won’t need them.
Is it okay to take an electrolyte drink every day?
If you are exercising every day and sweating a lot, it is okay to take an electrolyte supplement to replace the lost mineral salts. If you are not sweating out electrolytes, though, you should not take electrolyte supplements. An electrolyte overload in the body can result in serious health problems, including vomiting, dizziness, and heart arrhythmia.
The Bottom Line
If you are sweating a lot during exercise, work, or any other activity, an electrolyte powder supplement will ensure that you replace the lost essential minerals. This will boost your energy and help your muscles contract harder. Our favorite overall electrolyte supplement is Nuun Hydration Electrolyte Tablets.
References
- American College of Sports Medicine, Sawka MN, Burke LM, Eichner ER, Maughan RJ, Montain SJ, Stachenfeld NS. American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Exercise and fluid replacement. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2007 Feb;39(2):377-90. doi: 10.1249/mss.0b013e31802ca597. PMID: 17277604.
- Practice parameter: the management of acute gastroenteritis in young children. American Academy of Pediatrics, Provisional Committee on Quality Improvement, Subcommittee on Acute Gastroenteritis. Pediatrics. 1996 Mar;97(3):424-35. PMID: 8604285.
- https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.html
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