If you are looking for the best electrolyte drinks to help you refuel your body, we have gathered the best options for every lifestyle. When you know you’ll be working out for long periods of time, it’s always a good idea to take some electrolytes as a precautionary step. This will ensure you can get through tough workouts without having to stop because you feel depleted. They can also be life savers after a hot workout. We have eight of the best options and all the information you need to know below.
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What drinks provide the most electrolytes?
Coconut water, milk, fruit juices, and smoothies are all naturally high in electrolytes. These drinks will work well if you can’t get your hands on electrolyte drinks from the supermarket. It’s always best to have options regarding electrolyte drinks so you can change it up and not drink the same thing all the time.
What should be in an electrolyte drink?
Sodium, potassium, and chloride are essential ingredients that need to be in an electrolyte drink in order for it to have the most benefits. Additional ingredients to look for are calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, and phosphate. As long as you find these ingredients in your post-workout drink, you’ll be sure to get any lost electrolytes back in your system.
8 best electrolyte drinks for working out
8. Elm & Rye Electrolyte, $45
The Elm & Rye Electrolyte comes in three flavors: lemon-lime, watermelon, and strawberry kiwi. You can get them in gummy form or in little mix packets where you take one on the go. Reviews state that they felt they could run for hours after taking this electrolyte drink. Many people drink the powder at least 30 minutes before they go on the run and see the best results this way. However, the timing of your use will depend on your needs and workout routine.
7. Banana Bag Oral Solution, $16.50-$67.40
The Banana Bag Oral Solution provides vitamins and electrolytes in one bag for you to drink. This is a trusted drink by healthcare professionals and made by a pharmacist, so you know it won’t steer you wrong. Reviewers have stated they love that there aren’t any added sugars. Even though it is expensive to get a large pack, it is worth it.
6. BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink, $15
The BODYARMOR LYTE Sports Drink is a well-known drink by many athletes. They come in many flavors like blueberry pomegranate, berry punch, peach mango, tropical coconut, orange clementine, and strawberry lemonade. Reviewers have stated that they love this drink because of the variety of flavors and its superior taste.
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5. Total Hydration Ketolyte, $25
For the Total Hydration Ketolyte, you only need to add three milliliters to a cup of water to increase your energy. There are no calories or sugar are in this supplement which makes it healthy if you’re on a diet like Keto, for example. Reviewers have stated that this is one of the best electrolyte drinks because it has no flavor, so you won’t get sick of a certain kind. It can be added to anything you’re already drinking, which makes it easy for busy people on the go.
4. LMNT Recharge, $45
The LMNT Recharge has no sugar, gluten, or other irritating ingredients. This is helpful if you are on a diet because this electrolyte drink is keto-friendly and will not irritate a sensitive diet. Reviewers have stated that they find the drink to be ultra refreshing in the morning before or after workouts. It is a the perfect boost when you need to replenish.
3. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multipliers, $25
The Liquid I.V. Hydration Multipliers has become a very popular vegan electrolyte drink. The packets contain B3, B5, B6, B12, and C vitamins, making it an excellent choice for refueling. They come in single packets, so you don’t have to worry about portions. Reviewers have stated that this is great for when you are working out and need more electrolytes than you aren’t getting in your food, but want to stay vegan in what you put in your body.
2. SOS Hydration, $39.99
SOS Hydration is another one of the best electrolyte drinks out there because of its added ingredients including B6, B12, C, and D vitamins, folic acid, potassium, magnesium, and zinc. Their products span anywhere from ready to drink bottles, mini powder packets (aka “sticks”), and tubs. All options fall in the middle to high price range, but reviewers really admire this brand for the ingredients and find it effective when in need of extra hydration.
1. Gatorade Fit Electrolyte, $16.56 -$21.48
The Gatorade Fit Electrolyte is an excellent drink for pre or post-workout. This drink has no added sugar, artificial flavors, or sweeteners. These drinks are popular because they are healthy and provide many electrolytes you’ll want when performing high-intensity workouts. Reviewers have stated that it helps them stay hydrated and the flavors taste amazing.
What is the best drink to replace electrolytes?
The best drink that will replace any electrolytes lost in your body is the drink everyone knows: Gatorade. You can get Gatorade at your local supermarket or gas station and it comes in many flavors. A personal favorite is the fruit punch flavor. You will see many sports players with a bottle of Gatorade because it gives you the electrolytes you need at an affordable price.
What’s the best electrolyte drink for people with diabetes?
Since many electrolyte drinks contain sugar, coconut water is the best electrolyte drink for people who have diabetes. They contain low amounts of sugar (usually six grams) and it still naturally provides everything you would look for in an electrolyte drink.
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How to use electrolytes when exercising
When exercising, it is best to drink your electrolytes at least one hour before you work out to give it time to get through the body’s system. While working out, you should continuously drink water to keep from dehydrating. Depending on how much of a sweat you work up, you can also rehydrate with electrolytes after a workout. We recommend drinking them slowly because it can make you cramp up if you drink too quickly.
What are the symptoms of low electrolytes?
- Dizziness
- Fast or abnormal heart rate
- Confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Irritability
- Diarrhea
Is it okay to drink electrolytes every day?
It is okay to drink electrolytes every day, especially if you exercise and sweat for 60+ minutes every day. Electrolytes will help keep you hydrated and keep you from getting sick if you don’t drink anything. However, there is such a thing as too many electrolytes, so be sure to consult the serving sizes and limit yourself to that amount per day.
Can you take too many electrolytes?
Yes, you can take too many electrolytes, which can be unhealthy. Too much can cause dizziness, vomiting, and diarrhea. You’ll need electrolytes the most after being outside in the heat or working out at a very intense level. Don’t drink these drinks often if you aren’t sweating it out.
How much do the best electrolyte drinks cost?
The best electrolyte drinks cost anywhere from $15 to $70 on the high end. Cost varies depending on the type of electrolyte drink. If you buy one single bottle of gatorade, that can be as cheap as $2. However, a lot of the options we provide you can buy online, which means they will come in a hydration pack box, powder tub bottle, or pack of several bottles. You can select the best drink for your budget based on the options we provided.
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How do I make my own electrolyte drink?
This has become a popular trend nowadays to keep ingredients healthy and low-cost. If you want to try making your own, here is a recipe we found from Healthline.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened coconut water
- 2 cups cold water
Put all the ingredients into a cup and stir thoroughly. When you’re ready, you can enjoy.
Ultimately, if you have any questions about your personal electrolyte intake, you should always consult your doctor. They can test your particular blood levels and see if there is anything more serious going on. If not, you can visit online or local grocery stores to pick up these hydration helpers.
