Your electrolyte balance is a critical part of your workout performance and recovery. But as a certified personal trainer, I still encounter many people at the gym who never consider taking electrolyte tablets or powder.
So, our team decided to take a proactive approach and find the best electrolyte supplements that we could recommend to clients and readers.
We spent seven weeks with 13 clients and a nutritionist to research and test the best electrolyte products available.
Here’s what we found.
The Best Electrolyte Supplements
- Best Overall Electrolyte Supplements: Kaged Hydra-Charge
- Cheapest Electrolyte Powder: Ultima Hydrating Electrolyte Powder
- Best Low-Carb Electrolyte Formula: UCAN Hydrate Electrolyte
- Best Electrolyte Supplement Without Sugar: Zico 100% Coconut
- Best Electrolyte Supplement for Athletes: Pure Encapsulations
- Best Natural Electrolyte Supplement: Zico 100% Coconut
- Best Subscription Electrolyte Blend: Kaged Hydra-Charge
- Best Electrolyte Gel: Huma Plus Chia
- Best Unflavored Electrolyte Powder: Electrolyte SolutionPedialyte
Our Top Electrolyte Supplement Products (April 2024)
1 - Kaged Hydra-Charge (Best Overall & Subscription Based)
- Sodium : 115 mg
- Potassium : 107 mg
- Magnesium : 15 mg
- Phosphorus : 37 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Delivers a well-balanced dose of essential minerals to help you rehydrate
- Offers great discounts with subscription options to save money
- Available in many flavor options that are refreshing and tasty
- Includes some antioxidants to help remove toxins
Cons
- Only available on the official website at the moment
Based on our research and extensive testing, the best electrolyte supplement we would recommend to clients and readers is this Kaged Hydra-Charge.
It has the ideal balance of sodium and potassium. According to one of the studies found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, these components are effective at helping you replenish energy after a tough workout [1].
And unlike many other electrolyte supplements, clients loved that it comes in very tasty flavors with an electrolyte powder that mixes fast and easily with cold water.
You can also get some great discounts by signing up for the subscription offer, which you can cancel at any time.
Quick Facts:
2 - Huma Plus Chia Energy Gel (Best Gel)
- Sodium : 245 mg
- Potassium : 80 mg
- Calcium : 30 mg
- Magnesium : 15 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in small gel pouches that are ideal for taking during a training session
- The available flavors are tasty and not too sweet, especially the fruit punch
- Seems to be easy on the stomach, and the nutrients absorb quickly
Cons
- It’s quite an expensive option that might not be suitable for everyday
The next electrolyte supplement that we’d recommend is from Huma, and this is a great option if you want something a lot more convenient than an electrolyte powder.
I noticed during the testing phase that this supplement was noticeably gentler on my stomach. It particularly helped me alleviate cramping issues during my longer workouts.
I know a few athletes and marathon runners who rely on these for their endurance days.
Based on the study found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, because they come in small gel packs, you can keep one in your pocket to get a shot of electrolytes at an ideal time to help with your hydration levels [2].
Our clients loved both the convenience and the effectiveness of this one.
Quick Facts:
3 - Pedialyte Electrolyte Solution (Best Unflavored)
- Potassium : 280 mg
- Zinc : 2.8 mg
- Chloride : 440 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Focuses on potassium as the main electrolyte
- Works fast and doesn’t require pre-mixing before a training session
- Available in flavored and unflavored options to suit your taste
Cons
- It contains quite a bit of sugar that might not be suitable for certain diets
Here is another convenient electrolyte supplement that many from our testing team have continued using.
Based on our tests, it offers a good dose of potassium that you tend to lose through sweating during exercise [3].
Rather than having to measure out an electrolyte powder, I was simply able to pick up a bottle on my way to the gym and have it ready during or after training.
The main downside I found is that it’s not a sugar-free option, and that could interfere with a strict diet regime.
Quick Facts:
4 - Zico 100% Coconut Water Drink (Best Natural & Without Sugar)
- Potassium : 390 mg
- Calcium : 30 mg
- Magnesium : 15 mg
- Phosphorus : 10 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Base on pure coconut water and not from concentrate
- Comes in a pack of 12 bottles to cover a few weeks of training
- Has a subtle taste and doesn’t contain added sugar or flavors
Cons
- It’s a 16-ounce bottle that might not be ideal for carrying on a run
Our next recommended electrolyte supplement is from Zico, which is based on pure coconut water.
That means it’s not a concentrated electrolyte powder mixed with water but a completely natural drink.
Our team found that it was a great quality option, and it worked very well for taking during gym sessions.
You get a total of 12 bottles in each pack, which should keep you going for a few weeks of training.
Quick Facts:
5 - UCAN Hydrate Electrolyte (Best Low-Carb)
- Sodium : 310 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to mix powder for a precise amount of electrolytes
- It’s a sugar-free option that is ideal for low-carb diets like keto
- Comes in a nice berry flavor that’s not too strong or sweet tasting
Cons
- Some more flavor options would be great to avoid getting bored with the same one
Here is another electrolyte powder, and UCAN has created one that is very easy to mix with water. The advantage of this is that you can measure the ideal amount for each training session.
Our tests indicate that it’s also a sugar-free option that’s ideal for low-carb dieters or people who need to avoid blood sugar spikes.
I just wish there were a few more flavor options to choose from, as I tend to get tired of the same one every day.
Quick Facts:
6 - Pure Encapsulations Electrolyte Energy (Best for Athletes)
- Potassium : 50 mg
- Calcium : 50 mg
- Magnesium : 50 mg
- Chloride : 75 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Delivers key nutrients in the right dosage to help your rehydration efforts
- Claims to deliver the purest forms of electrolytes with no contaminants
- Contains some essential amino acids, including tyrosine, for cognitive performance
Cons
- It’s quite an expensive product compared to the others above
This Pure Encapsulations electrolyte supplement comes from a leading company in the sports supplement space.
This one is specifically formulated to help athletes with an electrolyte imbalance from training.
Our testing team also highlighted that they felt this was the best electrolyte powder for boosting your mental alertness. This seems to be due to the added tyrosine that scientists have linked to brain activity [4].
Just keep in mind that it’ll cost you quite a bit more than the above ones.
Quick Facts:
7 - Nuun Sport: Electrolyte Drink Tablets
- Sodium : 300 mg
- Potassium : 150 mg
- Calcium : 13 mg
- Magnesium : 25 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes as dissolvable tablets that are ready to drink within minutes
- Available in four tasty flavors that are natural, especially the lemon-lime
- With only one gram of sugar, it shouldn’t mess up your sugar intake
Cons
- You will need to prepare this ahead of time to have it ready during training
Our next electrolyte supplement recommendation comes from Nuun Sport, and it comes as a tablet that you mix with plain water.
It fizzes up and doesn’t require stirring like a regular electrolyte powder.
It doesn’t just deliver key nutrients to help with electrolyte depletion and creates a tasty and refreshing drink. Based on our testing, our favorite one is the lemon-lime option, which is tangy and natural tasting.
Quick Facts:
8 - Skratch Labs Hydration Drink Mix
- Calcium : 44.3 mg
- Potassium : 39 mg
- Magnesium : 39 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The powder mixes easily with water and doesn’t require a shaker
- Vegan-certified option for people on a plant-based diet
- We liked the strawberry lemonade flavor the best
Cons
- It contains quite a lot of sugar that’s not ideal for a balanced diet
This Skratch Labs electrolyte powder also received a lot of positive feedback from our testing team.
Our team highlighted that it mixes very easily, and having a powder allows you to measure out an exact amount easily.
It has all the key nutrients to regulate fluid balance, but I have to highlight that it has quite a bit of sugar. That wouldn’t make it suitable for keto or other low-carb diets.
Quick Facts:
9 - Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
- Potassium : 380 mg
- Sodium : 510 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in small sachets of pre-measured powder to get the right amount
- Mixes quickly into a refreshing drink that’s ideal for workouts
- Contains some added vitamin C as an antioxidant
Cons
- Contains both cane sugar and dextrose making it quite sweet
What we noticed during our testing is that this electrolyte supplement from Liquid I.V. comes as a pre-measured electrolyte powder in small sachets.
You simply open it and add it to water, and it’s ready to drink in seconds with a great flavor.
The reason it’s lower on this list is because of quite a high sugar content, and the convenience can work out quite expensive.
Quick Facts:
10 - Ultima Hydrating Electrolyte Powder (Cheapest Option)
- Potassium : 250 mg
- Calcium : 65 mg
- Magnesium : 100 mg
- Vitamin C : 100 mg
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes with added vitamin C for immune health and detox
- Contains no sugar or carbs making it suitable for many different diets
- Also available in large tubs for a 90-day supply
Cons
- Some of the flavor options are quite sweet tasting
The final one of our best electrolyte supplements comes from a company called Ultima.
This company has created one of the widest ranges of flavor choices of any electrolyte powder we tested.
It delivers key nutrients to help deal with an electrolyte imbalance, and because it doesn’t have any sugar, it’s also ideal for people on the keto diet.
And while most of them are tasty, we did find some of them quite sweet, like traditional electrolyte drinks.
Quick Facts:
How We Tested Electrolyte Supplements
As a certified personal trainer with years of experience in nutrition and supplementation, I understand the critical role electrolytes play in athletic performance and recovery.
To ensure our recommendations for the best electrolyte supplements stand up to real-world use, we've rigorously tested them against several key criteria:
Effectiveness
We evaluated how well the supplements maintained hydration and electrolyte balance during and after intense workouts. This was assessed through client feedback, performance metrics, and recovery times.
Ingredients
We analyzed the quality and variety of electrolytes in each supplement, ensuring they included essential minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. We also checked for the presence of any unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients.
Price
We compared the cost per serving across different brands to determine which offered the best value without compromising on quality.
Taste and Mixability
A supplement is only effective if it's palatable and easy to consume. We tested the taste profile of each option and observed how easily they mixed with water without leaving residue or a gritty texture.
Absorption Rate
We looked into the bioavailability of the electrolytes provided, as quicker absorption can lead to more immediate rehydration and mineral replenishment.
Third-Party Testing
To ensure product purity and label accuracy, we favored supplements that underwent rigorous third-party testing.
Versatility
We considered whether the supplements were suitable for a range of dietary needs, including keto, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Packaging and Convenience
We evaluated the packaging for ease of use, especially when on the go. Individual packaging, ease of opening, and the ability to reseal for future use were all considered.
Buyer's Guide
When choosing an electrolyte powder, consider factors like the dosage, flavor, brand reputation, ingredients, and price.
According to my research and previous testing, let me highlight a few points you need to consider in your process.
Who Should Take Electrolyte Supplements?
Performance athletes and people who spend quite a bit of time sweating at the gym should take electrolyte supplements.
And just replenishing that fluid loss with water isn’t going to replenish some of the essential nutrients you lose fully.
See, while you’re sweating, you also lose electrolytes. And the lower your electrolyte levels run, the higher your risk of moderate dehydration and muscle cramps [5].
And that’s why electrolyte supplementation during and after training can be such an important factor for your overall performance.
Related Articles:
Who Shouldn't Take Electrolyte Supplements?
People who suffer from high blood pressure or cardiac issues shouldn’t consider taking electrolyte supplements without getting medical advice first.
It is possible that electrolyte powders could raise your blood pressure, which could counteract any medication you’re on.
It might also not be a good idea to take these supplements if you suffer from chronic muscle cramps.
While essential electrolytes like magnesium can help, it’s better to get the dosage right and be advised by a medical doctor [6].
Electrolyte Ingredients For Fluid Balance
Here are the key nutrients to look out for.
1. Potassium
One of the most important ingredients to look out for in an electrolyte powder is potassium. It’s also one of the most common ones you find and easy for the body to absorb and process [7].
As one of the important electrolytes, it then helps to create the right salinity of body fluids to support everything from heart to skeletal muscle functions [8].
It’s also an ingredient that you typically won’t find in sports drinks that just aim to provide you with a sugar rush.
And if you want to take in a natural source of high-potassium food, then consider eating a banana before training.
“This sweet, tropical treat [bananas] provides a ton of potassium. And that’s a good thing, because almost every body part needs it, from your heart and kidneys to your muscles and nerves.”
- Christine Mikstas, RD, LD
2. Sodium
You should also look out for sodium in an electrolyte powder.
It might sound familiar as sodium chloride is what we commonly call table salt. And it’s one of the easiest electrolytes to naturally get into your diet.
At the same, it’s also one of the easiest ones to end up taking too much of. The result can be blood pressure and cardiac issues if it’s not properly controlled [9].
But for athletes, a small dose of sodium can be a great way to ensure you remain fully hydrated during and after a workout routine where you sweat a lot.
3. Magnesium
Most athletes should be taking a magnesium supplement to help them with muscle function and recovery [10].
It can be particularly helpful for relaxing muscles before you go to bed, but this trace mineral is also an important ingredient for rehydration [11].
Some of the best electrolyte powders contain about 15 mg per serving, which can be an ideal amount for athletes and one that you'll find in the Kaged Hydra recommendation above.
“Magnesium deficiency is common in developed countries and is associated with diabetes and other conditions. A prolonged lack of magnesium in the diet can lead to muscle cramps, raised blood pressure, and reduced insulin sensitivity.”
- Mike Murray, RDN, CSCS
4. Calcium
Most people just think of calcium as an important mineral for their bone health [12]. But it’s also one of the key electrolytes for endurance athletes to consider.
It’s one that you find less often in electrolyte powders, but my dietitian mentioned to me that it’s often better to get a small dose of multiple different electrolytes than focusing on just one of them.
It’s also something that you won’t find in traditional sports drinks, which don’t have the same benefits for hydration.
5. Phosphorus
While phosphorus is one of the key electrolytes, you don’t often see it in supplements. However, research has shown that it also plays a role in the growth and repair of all body cells, including muscle tissue [13].
“Phosphate helps build/repair bones and teeth, stores energy, contracts muscles, and enables nerve function. The body needs vitamin D to absorb phosphorus.”
- Faith Addiss, RN
Dosage
You’ll often see some products that advertise having “three times the electrolytes of other supplements.” And while that can be tempting, you often don’t need that high a dose.
While it’s important to avoid electrolyte imbalances during and after training, you take in a lot of these through your diet as well.
So, you will have some reserves, meaning that you don’t always need a huge dose.
I would generally advise that you buy an electrolyte powder that has a moderate dosage that you can increase if and when needed.
Flavor
There are two things that I have to say about flavor when it comes to electrolyte supplements.
First of all, don’t let flavor dictate your final choice. Yes, you don’t want it to taste like crap, but it’s more important to get the right hydration multiplier electrolyte ingredients than the right flavor.
Secondly, when you find something that tastes great, check out the nutrition label for the sugar content.
I personally like having a range of flavor choices so that I can avoid getting bored with the same flavor all the time.
Brand Reputation And Price
You also need to pay careful attention to the reputation of a supplement brand.
There are many companies that spend more money on advertising and celebrity endorsements than on the actual product formula.
Fortunately, we vetted all the above brands, and our nutritionist confirmed that they have a solid formula with quality ingredients.
FAQs
What Is The Most Effective Electrolyte?
Kaged Hydra is the most effective electrolyte available at the moment. It delivers a broad range of electrolytes that give athletes the right mix to ensure hydration levels stay optimum.
Is It Ok To Take Electrolytes Every Day?
Yes, it is OK to take electrolytes every day in order to maintain the ideal fluid balance. However, you should carefully monitor your dietary salt and electrolyte intake with a food journaling app in order to avoid taking an excessive dose.
What Is the Healthiest Source of Electrolytes?
Spinach is the healthiest source of electrolytes, making it an ideal choice to provide you with a revitalizing boost during or after exercise.
What Is the Fastest Way to Replenish Electrolytes?
The fastest way to replenish electrolytes is with a hydration multiplier electrolyte like Kaged Hydra. It comes as a powder that you mix with water, and it absorbs very quickly for your body to process.
Why Should Endurance Athletes Look for Carbohydrates in Their Electrolyte Supplements?
Endurance athletes should look for carbohydrates in their electrolyte supplements because they provide a dual function of hydration and energy sustenance. This can help prevent energy depletion, commonly known as "bonking," during prolonged activities.
Are There Eco-Friendly Electrolyte Supplements Available?
Yes, there are some eco-friendly electrolyte supplements available. These focus on environmental sustainability by using eco-friendly packaging, such as recyclable materials or glass jars, catering to the needs of environmentally conscious consumers.
What Are Unflavored Electrolyte Add-Ins, and Who Should Use Them?
Unflavored electrolyte add-ins are supplements that replenish essential electrolytes without altering the taste of your drink and are ideal for those who prefer no additional flavors or want to avoid extra sugars and additives.
How Does Potassium in Electrolyte Supplements Help With Muscle Cramps?
Potassium in electrolyte supplements helps with muscle cramps by playing a critical role in muscle function and nerve signaling. Also, higher potassium content in electrolyte supplements can help individuals prone to muscle cramps maintain proper muscle function and prevent cramping.
Our Verdict on Best Electrolyte Supplements
Out of all the best electrolyte supplements that we tested in the past two months, the one that we keep going back to is Kaged Hydra. It has the ideal mix of ingredients and comes in powder form, which makes adjusting the dose even easier.
It also tastes refreshing, which makes it ideal for taking during a tough workout session.
Our testing results also showed that performance levels during training remained higher when sipping away at this product.
Our #1 Recommendation
Kaged Hydra-Charge (Best Overall & Subscription Based)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Delivers a well-balanced dose of essential minerals to help you rehydrate
- Offers great discounts with subscription options to save money
- Available in many flavor options that are refreshing and tasty
- Includes some antioxidants to help remove toxins
- Only available on the official website at the moment
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