Hydrating with electrolytes can be more effective than only hydrating with water. I have noticed on my most active days my muscles will cramp up even if I am drinking copious amounts of water. For this reason, I have been trying out different electrolyte options. A great way to stay hydrated is adding electrolytes to your water. It is important to note that you should also be drinking water alongside your electrolytes.
Nuun Hydration
I keep a sleeve of Nuun Hydration Sport Tablets in my bag because these transport easily. These keep me hydrated better than just water through the use of added electrolytes in my water. I’ve heard from friends who live in more humid climates that these don’t keep as well. I also don’t love the minimal flavor. It is also important to note these tablets are effervescent so you need to leave the lid off your bottle for the product to dissolve.
Favorite Flavor: Fruit Punch
Pros:
- only 1 gram of sugar
- Easily transportable
Cons:
- Lacks flavor (might be great for those who don’t like super sweet things)
- Not instantaneous, have to wait for tablet to dissolve and leave your lid off
Liquid IV
I love the individual Liquid IV electrolyte packets I can have handy when on the go. These packets also dissolve quicker than most of its competitors. The flavors of these are by far the sweetest most likely due to the 11 grams of sugar. I intake plenty of sugar through other foods and prefer not to drink my sugar when possible.
Favorite Flavor: Golden Cherry
Pros:
- Handy travel packets
Cons:
- 11 grams of sugar (this is okay and could be beneficial if you drink this while being super active)
- One packet is too sweet for my liking, I typically only use half the recommended amount
Redmond Re-lyte
I recently tried a local Utah business’ electrolyte drink mix called Re-lyte. Thanks to a good friend’s recommendation on this product and was extremely impressed. The flavor is bold but not too sweet. I love having a container to grab the exact amount I want to use, I have considered buying the individual packets to have some in my bag on the go but have not done so yet.
Favorite Flavor: Mango
Pros:
- Best tasting
- Zero grams of sugar
- Super hydrating
- Support local – made in Utah
Cons:
- Due to the salt content, it does not dissolve instantly but still pretty quickly.
In summary
Overall, I think it is important to use electrolytes to help supplement your hydration during intense or long duration workouts. I found all of these electrolytes to be beneficial however I would pick Re-Lyte as my top pick, Nuun as my number two and Liquid IV as the last option due to the amount of sugar and extra sweet flavor.
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