The 5 Best Sugar-Free Electrolyte Brands of 2024

Disclaimer: Before making any changes to your sodium intake, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to your individual health needs.

Sodium intake guidelines are a funny thing. We are told to consume less of it by mainstream health organizations and are warned that it will increase our risk of high blood pressure and other downstream health consequences.

The Sodium Paradox: Reconsidering Conventional Wisdom

While too much of anything is definitely bad, there is some pretty strong evidence that we have been mislead here. And that the recommended sodium intake is actually much less than what it should be for a healthy individual.

It’s becoming more and more clear that by increasing our sodium intake healthy individuals will be able to decrease instances of headaches, and muscle cramps, increase water volume in the muscle, improve cognition, and improve overall energy.

What’s interesting about consuming “too much sodium” is that our kidneys can actually effectively excrete excess salt while our bodies are unable to synthesize sodium. Leading us to believe you’re actually better off getting “too much” than not enough.

OUR TOP PICKS

1. Best Overall – Re-Lyte® Hydration
2. Best Minimalist Blend – LMNT
3. Best Innovators – Liquid IV
4. Best Unique Blend – HRDWRK
5. Best Comprehensive – Key Nutrients

	Price per serving	Sodium	Chloride	Magnesium	Potassium	Calcium	Sweetener	Unique Selling Point
Re-Lyte	$0.73	810mg	1280mg	50mg	400mg	60mg	Stevia Leaf Extract	Ancient salt
LMNT	$1.27	1000mg	N/A	60mg	200mg	N/A	Stevia Leaf Extract	Simplicity
Liquid IV	$1.86	510mg	N/A	N/A	380mg	N/A	Allulose & Stevia	CTT®
HRDWRK	$0.36	Prop. blend (650mg)	Prop. blend (650mg)	150mg	300mg	N/A	Stevia & Sucralose	Amino acid blend
Key Nutrients	$0.44	Sodium Chloride 270mg	Sodium Chloride 270mg	100mg	150mg	110mg	Stevia Leaf Extract	Vitamin blend

1. Re-Lyte^® Hydration

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Electrolytes:
  • Sodium: 810mg
  • Chloride: 1280mg
  • Magnesium glycinate, and malate: 50mg
  • Potassium citrate: 400mg
  • Calcium carbonate: 60mg
• Other ingredients:
• Coconut water powder: 80mg
• Sweetened with rebaudioside A (stevia leaf extract)
• Non-GMO-citric acid

Re-Lyte Hydration by Redmond is making waves in the realm of electrolyte brands with its promise of effective hydration without the sugar crash.

Re-Lyte Hydration has become my go-to choice for sugar-free electrolytes. I initially discovered these electrolytes after trying Redmond’s Real Salt, the parent company that makes the Re-Lyte Electrolytes with the same salt they sell in stores.

One of their big claims that I find very appealing is that their salt contains the least amount of microplastics compared to the competition. Microplastic contamination in salt is a huge problem, and Redmond’s approach to salt production reduces the likelihood of these microplastics getting into your food.

@earthnourished

A study found that 90% of sea salts contained micro plastics. It’s definitely concerning, but the good news is that there are ways to protect ourselves. One option is to choose salts that come from ancient seabeds, like Redmond Real Salt and Himalayan Pink Salt. These salts were formed long before plastic or other pollutants became a thing, so they’re less likely to contain microplastics. By opting for salts from ancient seabeds, you can enjoy the natural goodness of these salts without worrying about microplastics. Redmond Real Salt and Himalayan Pink Salt are known for their rich mineral content, which can add flavor and depth to your culinary creations. Plus, they offer a unique taste that’s different from regular table salt. So, next time you’re looking for salts to use in your meals, consider reaching for options like Redmond Real Salt and Himalayan Pink Salt. They not only provide a flavor boost but also give you peace of mind knowing that they come from pristine sources, untouched by modern pollutants. Stay mindful and enjoy the natural goodness! 🧂✨

♬ I Got 5 On It (Instrumental) – Luniz

Redmond’s Real Salt is an unrefined salt mined from an ancient seabed in Utah, where it’s safe from modern pollutants. It’s safe and unadulterated, unprocessed, and they claim it has a sweet taste to it, but I’ve never noticed that.

So when I heard they made a sugar-free electrolyte blend, I knew I had to try it.

Pros:

1. Minimal Microplastic Promise: Because of the age of the mines where Redmond’s Real Salt is collected, the salt used in Relyte has not been exposed to microplastics like modern salt used in other electrolyte blends or on your kitchen table.
2. Zero Calories: For those watching their calorie intake, sugar intake, or fasting for extended periods of time, Re-Lyte offers a guilt-free option to replenish electrolytes without adding any extra calories to your daily diet or spiking your blood sugar or insulin.
3. Mixes Easily: The convenience factor is key here. It does take a few minutes for the blend to fully dissolve in cold water, but given enough time there will be no clumps in your drink.
4. Optimal Electrolyte Ratio: Re-Lyte contains an impressively dosed blend of sodium, chloride, bioavailable forms of magnesium (something other brands don’t necessarily have), and potassium.
5. Taste: My favorite flavor is their Strawberry Lemonade. But with all their flavors, Re-Lyte makes staying hydrated a fun experience. This can be particularly exciting for those who struggle with plain water or don’t like the artificial taste of some electrolyte drinks.
6. High-Quality Ingredients: Re-Lyte’s use of Redmond Real Salt, an unrefined ancient sea salt, adds a natural source of electrolytes and salt crystals derived from an ancient mine in Utah. This sets it apart from brands that rely on artificial additives or refined salts.
7. Affordable: At $0.73 a serving (Amazon price), this is one of the most affordable sugar-free electrolytes on the list

Cons:

1. Limited Flavors: While the flavor options offered by Re-Lyte are undoubtedly enticing, the selection might not cater to everyone’s taste preferences. A broader range of flavors could attract a more diverse customer base.
2. Availability: From what I can tell, this stuff isn’t on store shelves, so you’re limited to buying it online. For some, that is more convenient anyway. For others, maybe not. I consider this limitation a negative, especially if I’m ever in a pinch.

Overall, Re-Lyte Electrolytes are easily my favorite overall. They taste great, contain ancient pollutant-free salt, and are impressively dosed with exactly what I want in a good electrolyte blend: a lot of magnesium and potassium.

2. LMNT Sugar-Free

Ingredients Breakdown

• Electrolytes:
  • Sodium 1000mg
  • Magnesium Malate 60mg
  • Potassium Chloride 200mg
• Other ingredients:
  • Stevia leaf extract

LMNT is a brand that prides itself on using the latest scientific literature to inform its product formulations. And that might just fly in the face of what most believe to be the most favorable consensus: less salt is good for your health. LMNT seems to believe just the opposite of that. They strongly encourage their customers to consume more salt to improve their health problems.

Their electrolyte mix, devoid of sugar and questionable ingredients, aims to provide a straightforward solution to hydration needs.

Pros:

1. Scientifically Informed: LMNT relies on current scientific research to guide its formulation, ensuring that their product aligns with the latest understanding of optimal electrolyte balance and hydration needs.
2. High Sodium Content: Unlike some traditional recommendations that advocate for lower sodium intake, LMNT recognizes the importance of getting enough sodium in your diet, with their mix providing 1000mg per serving. This higher sodium content can be beneficial for individuals engaged in intense physical activity or those following specific dietary protocols such as low-carb or keto diets.
3. Balanced Electrolyte Profile: In addition to sodium, LMNT includes magnesium malate and potassium chloride in its blend, addressing a broader spectrum of electrolyte needs.
4. No Added Sugar: For individuals monitoring their sugar intake, LMNT offers a sugar-free electrolyte solution.
5. Stevia Leaf Extract: As the sole sweetener in the mix, stevia leaf extract provides a natural alternative to traditional sweeteners without contributing to the sugar content. This can appeal to consumers looking for a clean-label product with minimal artificial additives.

Cons:

1. Cost: At $1.27 per serving, this is actually the most expensive on the list. You can decide for yourself if the simple ingredients list is worth paying a premium for hydration
2. Limited Magnesium Content: While LMNT’s electrolyte mix includes magnesium malate, the amount provided (60mg per serving) may be insufficient for individuals with higher magnesium needs, such as athletes or those prone to magnesium deficiency. Supplemental magnesium may be necessary for some users to meet their daily requirements.
3. Potassium Content: While potassium chloride is included in the mix, the amount provided (200mg per serving) is pretty low. You should be getting around 3000-4000mg per day. 200mg is just a drop in the bucket for your daily requirements.
4. No calcium: Calcium plays an important role in maintaining proper hydration. I would expect to see at least some calcium in here, but then again that’s pretty easy to get from your diet. Although if you’re fasting and plan to use LMNT, you’ll be missing out on calcium

LMNT offers a scientifically informed electrolyte solution with a focus on high sodium content and a balanced electrolyte profile. While its sugar-free ingredients list and reliance on natural sweeteners make it a favorable choice for many, individuals with specific magnesium or potassium needs may need to supplement accordingly. Overall, LMNT provides a promising option for those seeking a reliable electrolyte supplement to support hydration and performance goals.

3. Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier Sugar-Free

Liquid IV’s Hydration Multiplier® Sugar-Free is positioned as a premium hydration solution, offering superior hydration benefits without the addition of sugar. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:

Pros:

1. Superior Hydration: Liquid IV claims that its Sugar-Free Hydration Multiplier provides superior hydration compared to water alone, backed by its proprietary Amino Acid Allulose Blend. This blend, which includes electrolytes and amino acids like L-glutamine and L-alanine, is designed to enhance hydration efficiency beyond what regular water can accomplish.
2. Decent Electrolyte Content: With 3 times the electrolytes of leading sports drinks, Hydration Multiplier® Sugar-Free packs a punch with 510mg of sodium and 380mg of potassium per serving. These electrolytes play crucial roles in hydration and maintaining fluid balance in the body, making this product an attractive option for those with active lifestyles or in need of rapid rehydration.
3. Natural Sweetener: Liquid IV utilizes allulose, a rare naturally occurring sweetener, to add sweetness to their Sugar-Free Hydration Multiplier without raising blood glucose levels.
4. Vegan and Child-Friendly: The product is suitable for vegans and safe for consumption by children over the age of 1, making it a versatile option for individuals with dietary restrictions or families seeking hydration solutions for all members.
5. Transparent Ingredients: Liquid IV provides detailed information about the ingredients used in their Amino Acid Allulose Blend, including their sources and potential benefits. This transparency can help consumers make informed choices about the products they consume.

Cons:

1. Price: At $25.99 for 14 sticks ($1.86 per stick), Liquid IV’s Hydration Multiplier® Sugar-Free may be considered relatively expensive compared to other hydration products on the market. While the cost can be justified by the product’s premium formulation and superior hydration claims, budget-conscious consumers may find it prohibitive.
2. Limited Flavor Options: While the delicate and floral stone fruit flavor described by Liquid IV sounds appealing, the lack of variety in flavor options may deter consumers who prefer a broader selection to suit their taste preferences.
3. Use of Cyanocobalamin: Liquid IV’s Hydration Multiplier® Sugar-Free contains cyanocobalamin, a form of vitamin B12. While cyanocobalamin is commonly used in supplements and fortified foods, some individuals prefer methylcobalamin, a more bioavailable form of vitamin B12. This ingredient choice may not align with the preferences of consumers who prioritize bioavailability and natural forms of nutrients in their supplements.

Liquid IV’s Hydration Multiplier offers a promising hydration solution for individuals seeking superior hydration benefits without the addition of sugar. It has a high electrolyte content, natural sweetener, and suitability for various dietary preferences, it presents a compelling option for those prioritizing hydration efficiency and quality ingredients.

4. HRDWRK

Designed by a team of experts, HRDWRK offers a sugar-free solution formulated to enhance performance and meet the hydration needs of athletes and health-conscious individuals alike.

Pros:

1. Affordable Pricing: At $27.49 for 100 servings, HRDWRK Electrolytes offers excellent value for money, making it a budget-friendly option for individuals seeking long-term hydration support without breaking the bank. This competitive pricing ensures that users can maintain their hydration regimen without sacrificing quality or effectiveness.
2. Sugar-Free and Filler-Free: HRDWRK Electrolytes prides itself on being a pure hydration mix without added sugars, carbs, or fillers.
3. Designed for Performance: Formulated by a team of dietitians and chemists, HRDWRK Electrolytes is specifically designed to enhance hydration and improve muscle endurance. It uses Hydrolamine which can hydrate the body 5 times faster than water alone.
4. Clinically Dosed Ingredients: Unlike many electrolyte powders on the market, HRDWRK Electrolytes contains clinically dosed ingredients to ensure effectiveness. This commitment to proper dosing sets it apart from products that may skimp on key nutrients.
5. Wide Applicability: While designed with performance athletes in mind, HRDWRK Electrolytes is suitable for anyone with electrolyte needs, including individuals following keto, low-carb, or paleo diets.

Cons:

1. Low Dosage of Amino Acid Blend: While HRDWRK Electrolytes includes a proprietary blend of “HRD” amino acids, including Taurine, Glutamine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Valine, L-Threonine, and Alanine, the dosage of these amino acids (900mg) may be too low to have a significant impact on performance or hydration. This could potentially limit the effectiveness of the amino acid blend in achieving its intended benefits.
2. Limited Flavor Options: HRDWRK Electrolytes offers only two flavor options, Blue Razz and Mango Pineapple. While these flavors may appeal to some consumers, a broader range of flavor choices could enhance the product’s appeal and cater to a wider variety of taste preferences.

I think HRDWRK Electrolytes presents itself as a competitive sugar-free electrolyte powder that will do a good job at supporting hydration needs. While its clinically dosed ingredients and money-back guarantee inspire confidence, the low dosage of the amino acid blend and limited flavor options may be considerations for some consumers.

5. Key Nutrients – Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder (Sugar-Free)

Recognized as one of Forbes Health’s “Best Electrolyte Powders” of 2023, Key Nutrients stands as a leader in the field, offering a science-based formula crafted by a team of dedicated professionals.

This powder includes a comprehensive blend of essential electrolytes and vital nutrients, curated to replenish hydration. They are committed to clean, natural ingredients and have a proven track record of excellence. I think Key Nutrients is a worthy sugar-free competitor of hydration support for people who have an active lifestyle or just want to improve their everyday wellness.

Pros:

1. Comprehensive Electrolyte Blend: Key Nutrients Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder offers a comprehensive blend of essential electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride, and phosphorus.
2. Added Vitamins and Minerals: In addition to electrolytes, this powder is enriched with 18 vital vitamins and minerals.
3. No Added Sugar or Artificial Ingredients: With a commitment to clean and natural ingredients, Key Nutrients Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder is free from added sugars, artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavorings.
4. Versatile Usage: Whether it’s before, during, or after exercise, during extreme heat, while traveling, or even to support immune function during illness, Key Nutrients Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder offers versatility in its usage.
5. Veteran Founded and USA Made: Key Nutrients takes pride in its veteran-founded roots and commitment to manufacturing its products in the USA. With a focus on quality control, high manufacturing standards, and natural ingredients, Key Nutrients ensures that its supplements meet the highest standards of excellence and trustworthiness.

Cons:

1. Lower Electrolyte Content: Key Nutrients Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder’s electrolyte blend may not stand up to the competition, as it contains lower levels of essential electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium compared to some rival products. This means you’ll have to take multiple servings of Key Nutrients just to get the same amount of electrolytes as some of the leading competitors on this list.

Yet, Key Nutrients Electrolyte Recovery Plus Powder stands out as a comprehensive and well-formulated hydration solution enriched with essential electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals. While it’s not the most concentrated formula, the low price point does allow for some wiggle room, meaning you can take multiple servings of this no problem and still get an effective dose of electrolytes.

Summary

Look, there are a lot of electrolyte products on the market, but there aren’t a ton of sugar-free options. However, more and more are popping up every day. And we believe that these formulas all come in at a decent price point with values that we align with.

Whether that’s reading between the lines of “mainstream advice” and scientific studies, low microplastic promises, sustainable sourcing, or paving their own path in the field of health by taking hydration and sodium consumption very seriously.

While none of these blends are perfect, they all come with a unique spin and each should provide something to its target audience. Personally, I choose Re-Lyte for several reasons. Mainly the high electrolyte content, decent price point, use of ancient salt, and low microplastic promise.