Best Hydration Supplements (2026)

Staying properly hydrated goes beyond drinking water. Electrolyte supplements replenish key minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium lost through sweat, illness, or daily activity. The best hydration supplements deliver an optimal balance of electrolytes in convenient powder, tablet, or capsule form to support fluid balance, muscle function, and energy levels.

Quick Comparison

Product	Key Electrolytes	Form	Best For	Rating
Needed Hydration Support	Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium	Powder Packets	Best Overall	9.5/10
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier	Sodium, Potassium, Vitamin C	Powder Packets	Best Tasting	9.3/10
Vitamin Bounty Electrolytes	Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium	Capsules	Best Capsule Form	9.2/10
LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix	1000mg Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium	Powder Packets	Best for Heavy Sweaters	9.2/10
DripDrop Hydration Packets	Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc	Powder Packets	Best for Rapid Rehydration	9.1/10
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets	Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium	Effervescent Tablets	Best Tablets	9.0/10
Trace Minerals ConcenTrace	72+ Ionic Trace Minerals	Liquid Drops	Best Unflavored	8.9/10

1. Needed Hydration Support – Best Overall

Needed Hydration Support delivers a comprehensive electrolyte and trace mineral blend specifically formulated for optimal daily hydration.

Each serving provides a balanced ratio of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and chloride alongside 72+ trace minerals sourced from the Great Salt Lake. The powder packets dissolve easily in water and contain no artificial sweeteners or colors. The formula is designed for both everyday hydration and active recovery, making it versatile enough for athletes and general wellness seekers alike.

• Pros:
• Comprehensive electrolyte and trace mineral profile
• Clean ingredients with no artificial additives
• Convenient single-serve packets for on-the-go use

• Cons:
• Premium price point compared to basic electrolyte powders
• Limited flavor options

Best for: Anyone wanting a clean, all-in-one hydration supplement with trace minerals for daily use

2. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier – Best Tasting

Liquid I.V. uses Cellular Transport Technology (CTT) to enhance water absorption, delivering hydration faster than water alone.

Each stick pack contains 560mg of sodium, 370mg of potassium, plus B vitamins including B3, B5, B6, and B12 for added energy support. The formula uses a specific ratio of glucose and electrolytes to optimize absorption in the small intestine. Available in over a dozen flavors including lemon lime, strawberry, and passion fruit, it consistently ranks as one of the best-tasting electrolyte powders on the market. Each box contains 16 single-serve packets. For those looking to support energy levels with B12, the added B vitamins in this formula pull double duty.

• Pros:
• Excellent flavor variety with over 12 options
• Added B vitamins for energy metabolism support
• Sugar-free version also available

• Cons:
• Original formula contains 11g of sugar per serving
• No magnesium in the formula

Best for: People who want great-tasting hydration with added B vitamins for energy

3. Vitamin Bounty Electrolytes – Best Capsule Form

Vitamin Bounty Recover On delivers essential electrolytes in a convenient capsule format, ideal for those who dislike flavored drinks.

Each serving provides sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium in easy-to-swallow capsules. The formula was originally designed for keto dieters but works equally well for general hydration support. It contains no sugar, artificial flavors, or fillers, and the capsule form makes it easy to take with any beverage without altering the taste. This is a practical choice for anyone who prefers pills over powder mixes.

• Pros:
• No mixing or flavoring required
• Zero sugar and zero calories
• Travel-friendly capsule format

• Cons:
• Lower electrolyte doses compared to powder formats
• Multiple capsules needed per serving

Best for: People who prefer capsules over flavored drink mixes, keto dieters

4. LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix – Best for Heavy Sweaters

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LMNT delivers 1,000mg of sodium per packet — the highest of any major electrolyte brand — making it the go-to choice for heavy sweaters and endurance athletes.

Co-founded by Robb Wolf, author of The Paleo Solution, LMNT provides 1,000mg sodium, 200mg potassium, and 60mg magnesium per stick pack with zero sugar. The formula uses stevia for a light sweetness and comes in unique flavors like Watermelon Salt, Chocolate Salt, and Mango Chili. The high sodium content is specifically designed to replace what’s lost during intense exercise, making it a favorite among CrossFit athletes, marathon runners, and those training in hot conditions.

• Pros:
• Highest sodium content for serious athletes and heavy sweaters
• Zero sugar, keto and paleo friendly
• Unique, well-reviewed flavor options

• Cons:
• Very salty taste takes getting used to
• Not ideal for people on sodium-restricted diets

Best for: Endurance athletes, heavy sweaters, and anyone following keto or low-carb diets

5. DripDrop Hydration Packets – Best for Rapid Rehydration

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DripDrop was developed by a doctor on a World Health Organization mission and uses a patented oral rehydration formula for fast, effective rehydration.

Each packet delivers a precise balance of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and zinc alongside vitamin C. Originally created for medical-grade rehydration in challenging environments, the formula has crossed over into mainstream fitness and wellness. The flavor profile is milder and less sweet than competitors like Liquid I.V., making it a good option for those who find other brands too sugary. Available in fruit punch, lemon, berry, and other flavors. A zero-sugar version is also available with added B vitamins.

• Pros:
• Developed by a physician for medical-grade rehydration
• Includes zinc and vitamin C for immune support
• Mild, balanced flavor that isn’t overly sweet

• Cons:
• Contains some added sugar in the original formula
• Higher price per serving than some competitors

Best for: Rapid rehydration after illness, travel, or intense exercise

6. Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets – Best Tablets

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Nuun Sport pioneered the effervescent electrolyte tablet format, offering portable, mess-free hydration that dissolves directly in your water bottle.

Each tablet provides 300mg sodium, 150mg potassium, 25mg magnesium, and 13mg calcium with just 1g of sugar. The tablets come in compact tubes that fit easily in gym bags, hiking packs, or purses. Available in flavors like citrus fruit, cherry limeade, and watermelon, with caffeinated versions containing green tea extract also available. Nuun is NSF Certified for Sport, making it a trusted choice among competitive athletes. Those who also take magnesium for leg cramps may appreciate the added magnesium in this formula.

• Pros:
• Ultra-portable tube packaging — no powder mess
• NSF Certified for Sport
• Low calorie with minimal sugar

• Cons:
• Fizzy texture isn’t ideal for drinking during exercise
• Lower electrolyte levels than powder competitors

Best for: Active people who want the most portable, convenient hydration option

7. Trace Minerals ConcenTrace – Best Unflavored

Trace Minerals ConcenTrace is the original unflavored electrolyte concentrate, sourced from Utah’s Great Salt Lake and containing 72+ ionic trace minerals.

This liquid concentrate has been a trusted name in mineral supplementation since 1972. Just half a teaspoon delivers a broad spectrum of naturally occurring trace minerals including magnesium, chloride, sodium, and potassium. Because it’s unflavored and highly concentrated, it can be added to any beverage — water, juice, smoothies, or coffee — without changing the taste at lower doses. The ionic mineral form is designed for rapid absorption. Each 8 oz bottle provides approximately 96 servings.

• Pros:
• 72+ naturally occurring trace minerals
• Versatile — add to any drink without altering flavor
• Excellent value at roughly 96 servings per bottle

• Cons:
• Very low sodium — not a standalone electrolyte replacement for athletes
• Higher doses can taste slightly salty

Best for: People who want an unflavored, versatile trace mineral supplement for daily hydration

8. Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder – Best Zero Sugar

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Ultima Replenisher delivers all six electrolytes — sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, chloride, and phosphorus — with zero sugar and zero calories.

Available in both stick packs and canisters, Ultima uses plant-based colors and real fruit flavors with no artificial ingredients. Each serving provides a well-balanced electrolyte profile including 55mg magnesium, 250mg potassium, and 55mg sodium. The lower sodium content makes it a better fit for daily hydration rather than intense athletic recovery. The canister format offers significant cost savings over single-serve packets, coming in at under $0.50 per serving.

• Pros:
• All six electrolytes in one formula
• Zero sugar, zero calories, plant-based
• Available in bulk canister for excellent value

• Cons:
• Lower sodium — not sufficient for heavy sweating
• Some flavors can taste mildly artificial to sensitive palates

Best for: Everyday hydration for people who want a complete electrolyte formula without sugar. Those interested in keto-specific electrolyte options should also check out our dedicated guide.

How to Choose the Best Hydration Supplement

The right hydration supplement depends on your activity level and how much you sweat. For endurance athletes or people exercising in hot conditions, look for formulas with at least 500mg of sodium per serving, as sodium is the primary electrolyte lost through sweat. For everyday hydration, a lower-sodium option with a broader mineral profile works well. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 300-600mg of sodium per hour for athletes exercising over two hours.

Consider the form factor that fits your lifestyle. Powder packets are the most popular for their flavor and dosing flexibility. Tablets offer unmatched portability. Capsules eliminate the need for flavored drinks entirely. Liquid concentrates provide the most versatility since they can be added to any beverage.

Watch out for excessive added sugars and artificial ingredients. While some glucose can actually enhance electrolyte absorption in the small intestine, many products overdo it. Aim for options with under 5g of sugar or choose sugar-free versions. Also look for products that include potassium and magnesium alongside sodium, as all three minerals work together for proper fluid balance.

Third-party certifications like NSF Certified for Sport, Informed Choice, or USP add credibility, especially if you’re a competitive athlete subject to drug testing. GMP-certified manufacturing is a baseline to look for across all brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are hydration supplements and what do they do?

Hydration supplements are electrolyte formulas — typically powders, tablets, or liquids — that replenish minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium lost through sweat, exercise, illness, or daily activity. They help maintain fluid balance, support muscle and nerve function, and can improve hydration more effectively than water alone, especially during or after physical exertion.

How much electrolytes should I consume daily?

For everyday hydration, most people benefit from a single serving of an electrolyte supplement, especially on active days. Athletes or heavy sweaters may need 1-3 servings depending on exercise duration and sweat rate. The general recommendation is 200-500mg of sodium per serving for daily use, with higher amounts (500-1,000mg) reserved for intense or prolonged exercise.

When is the best time to take a hydration supplement?

For exercise, drink an electrolyte supplement about 30-45 minutes before training and continue sipping during and after your workout. For general hydration, first thing in the morning is effective since the body is naturally dehydrated after sleep. During illness with vomiting or diarrhea, sip electrolytes consistently throughout the day to prevent dehydration.

Are there any side effects of electrolyte supplements?

When used as directed, electrolyte supplements are generally well tolerated. Excessive sodium intake can raise blood pressure in sensitive individuals, and too much magnesium may cause digestive upset or diarrhea. People with kidney disease, heart conditions, or high blood pressure should consult their doctor before using high-sodium electrolyte products.

Can I take electrolyte supplements every day?

Most healthy adults can safely use a moderate electrolyte supplement daily, especially if they exercise regularly or live in hot climates. Choose a formula with moderate sodium levels (200-500mg) for daily use. Most dietary electrolyte needs should still come from food sources like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy.

Do electrolyte supplements break a fast?

Most electrolyte supplements without sugar or calories will not break a fast. Zero-calorie powders, tablets, and capsules containing only minerals are safe during fasting windows. Avoid formulas with added sugars, amino acids, or significant calories if maintaining a strict fast.

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