5 Natural Electrolyte Powders For Better Hydration
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If you’ve ever had Gatorade or seen an ad for Pedialyte, you’ve probably heard of the term “electrolytes.” But what is this stuff, and are some formulas better than others?
Electrolytes—per the Cleveland Clinic—are “substances that have a natural electrical charge when dissolved in water,” and they help our bodies function at optimal levels. Popular electrolytes are:
- sodium for maintaining fluids and absorbing nutrients
- magnesium for turning nutrients into energy
- potassium for supporting strong heart function
- calcium for building strong bones and controlling muscles
- chloride for maintaining the body’s natural pH
- phosphate for metabolizing nutrients
- bicarbonate for normalizing your blood’s pH levels
Unfortunately, many formulas made for electrolytes are also filled with additives, preservatives, or too much sugar—so while you may feel more hydrated, you may also feel some adverse effects later. The good news is that you can find electrolytes in many natural foods and formulas, like potatoes (potassium), dill pickles (sodium), pumpkin seeds (magnesium), and electrolyte powders.
We’ve found five of the best natural electrolyte mixes to aid in your body’s hydration and health—most are made without excess sugar, GMOs, or animal byproducts so they’re suitable for vegans, vegetarians, expecting parents, and those on special diets.
1. LMNT
Natural Ingredients | Sodium, potassium, magnesium
Flavors | Citrus, watermelon, orange, raspberry, mango chili, lemon habanero, chocolate salt, grapefruit, raw
Price | $45 for 30 packs; discounted subscriptions available (15%)
LMNT’s co-founder Robb Wolf found that salt was the one thing he needed in his workout regimen and couldn’t find in the mainstream; the other competitors were “too high in sugar or lacking in actual electrolytes.” So, he created his own with his founding team, and now this electrolyte powder is loved by athletes and health leaders alike, from Dr. Andrew Huberman to Lance Armstrong to Nancy Chen. Made for everyone—including those on keto, low-carb, or paleo diets—there are nine drink mixes here in a variety of fun flavors. Packed with sodium, magnesium, and potassium (in science-backed servings), you can have a pack first thing in the morning or right before exercising. Order a variety pack to try them all or subscribe for discounts!
2. GOODONYA
Natural Ingredients | Organic lemon juice powder, magnesium, organic coconut juice powder, organic stevia, Himalayan pink salt, natural vitamin C
Flavors | Lemonade
Price | $29+ for 20+ packs; discounted subscriptions available (10%)
Ever crave a tangy lemonade? Then you’re going to love GOODONYA’s HYDRATE, which tastes exactly the same—but with an added boost of energy and hydration, thanks to some seawater magnesium and naturally fermented Vitamin C. This delicious drink mix is certified organic, glyphosate-free, and made with only 1g of sugar, so you can enjoy all the benefits of electrolyte powders without artificial ingredients or sweetness. You only need 1.5 tbsp per glass, so each bag goes a long way—and the subscription makes it even more cost-effective. Enjoy the benefits of better sleep, focus, immunity, and more, with a drink that’ll leave you feeling as refreshed as it tastes.
3. Ultima
Natural Ingredients | Citric acid, magnesium, potassium, calcium natural flavors, salt, organic stevia, zinc, manganese
Flavors | Watermelon, lemonade, pink lemonade, grape, passionfruit, cherry pomegranate, blue raspberry, raspberry, orange, peach bellini, coconut piña colada
Price | $21+ for 20+ packs; discounted subscriptions available (10%)
Want to avoid sugar altogether? Ultima’s Electrolyte Hydration Powder is the way to go; it’s a powder mix of clean hydration and six key electrolytes without any sugar, carbs, or calories. And take a look at those flavors—watermelon, mocktail, passionfruit? We want ‘em all! And reviews say there’s no strange aftertaste either, so that’s a win in our book! From hospitals and holistic health centers to hikers and skiers, these are beloved since they work with every dietary plan and are vegan, non-GMO, and caffeine-free. Not sure where to start? Try the six-flavor stick pack as a trial sample and give each fruity flavor a chance—Ultima offers a 60-day satisfaction guarantee if you’re not a fan, but we have a feeling you will be.
4. Needed
Natural Ingredients | Magnesium, sea salt, sodium, potassium, lime oil & juice, monk fruit extract, citric acid, turmeric, spirulina
Flavors | Lemon, lime, grapefruit
Price | $45 for 30 servings; discounted subscriptions available (15%+)
For expecting parents, check out Needed’s Hydration Support made just for you—especially since you lose more electrolytes and trace minerals during pregnancy than at any other time when experiencing morning sickness, hormonal changes, and more. Needed’s mix is available in three flavors that go down easy, lightly sweetened with monk fruit extract, so you don’t need to worry about added sugars or stevia. Plus, the formula is made to reduce swelling, achieve hormonal balance, and support building bones—three essentials for your growing body (and baby!). Mix one serving into a cup or two of water, and when you need more, enjoy free US shipping, discounted subscriptions, and easy cancellations or changes.
5. Seeking Health
Natural Ingredients | Sodium, potassium, niacin, magnesium, creatine, D-ribose, taurine, monk fruit extract
Flavors | Orange, lemonade, berry, seltzer
Price | $30 for 30 servings; discounted subscriptions available (10%)
Seeking Health empowers you to take control of your health with its line of multivitamins and mixes, and its Optimal Electrolyte is one of the brand’s best-sellers with over 1,000 five-star reviews. Choose from a number of flavors (or a variety pack), all made without major allergens and suitable for anyone ages four and up. Vegans, vegetarians, and pregnant and breast-feeding people all can enjoy the benefits of this formula which includes added vitamins and amino acids that other powders don’t, like niacin and creatine. Seeking Health manufactures in the US using bioavailable nutrients, and each product is tested for purity and potency. As clean and natural as you can get!
