Electrolytes as the word suggests are electrically charged particles of minerals and compounds that emit a positive or negative charge when mixed with water.
Derived from a Greek origin, the word ‘electro’, is a prefix for electricity, and ‘lytos’ means ‘to set loose’. Electrolytes are present in the blood, tissues, urine, and other body fluids and are vital for various metabolic functions in the body.
The most common and important electrolytes are potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate. Together, these electrolytes assist in smooth muscle and nerve functions, maintain acidity balance, and keep the body hydrated.
Medical conditions and physically-strenuous exercises can induce rapid loss of electrolytes. An insufficiency or imbalance in electrolytes can have adverse effects on health. Electrolytes can easily be replaced through oral supplements.
Oral electrolyte supplements are available without a prescription and can be brought online as powders, liquids, tablets, or capsules. Check out our top 6 choices of electrolytes to choose the one that fits your needs the best.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall – Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
2. Best Budget – Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes
3. Best for Keto – Hi-Lyte Keto K1000
4. Best Liquid – LyteLine Lyte Show
5. Best Vegan – Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets
6. Best Powder – Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder
Now let’s look at each of these colloidal silver supplements in detail to find out why they are considered the best among the numerous supplements.
1. Best Overall – Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
The Overall rating of an electrolyte supplement depends on several factors as to what the product covers or supports, namely the ingredients, their proportions, the recommended dosage, ease of consumption, and suitability for different categories of people.
About Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier is a top-ranking supplement that is designed to provide essential electrolytes to energize and rehydrate the body quickly.
Liquid I.V uses a special proprietary Cellular Transport Technology (CTT) in its Hydration Multiplier that delivers an efficient ratio of potassium, sodium, glucose, and water directly into the bloodstream for rapid absorption and effectiveness.
Made in the USA, Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier contains only pure non-GMO ingredients, is free from soy, gluten, and dairy making it fit for vegans, and can be safely used to recharge your body instantly than with just water.
What it Contains
Each serving of 1 stick (16g) has:
- Calories – 50
- Total Fat – 0g
- Cholesterol – 0mg
- Sodium – 500mg
- Potassium – 370mg
- Sugars – 11g
- Protein – 0g
It also has effective additions of 110% of Daily Value (D.V.) of vitamin C, B3, B5, B6, and B12 and uses pure cane sugar instead of unhealthy white sugar. All this ensures that just one stick every day can provide enough nutrients and good hydration that equals 2-3 bottles of water.
Liquid I.V. is available as 0.56 ounce (pack of 16) that provides 16 servings. It can also be purchased as packs of 6, 8, 48, 96, 192 according to the buyer’s convenience and use.
Packed in delicious natural flavors of lemon-lime, acai berry, and passion fruit, it can be mixed in 16 oz water for consumption. This supplement can be taken once daily or multiple times depending on an individual’s need.
Available as convenient multiple single servings in one pack for ease of use, Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier provides easy replacement of electrolytes on the go making it overall the best electrolyte supplement.
The Pros
- Novel CTT technology ensures delivery of electrolytes in the right ratio
- Added essential vitamins
- Convenient single-serving sticks in one pack
- Free from gluten, soy, and dairy
Summary: Liquid I.V. is a supplement made using scientific technology to deliver the exact amount of electrolytes and vitamins in one serving. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly, this may be the overall best product to get the benefits of electrolytes.
2. Best Budget- Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes
The budget of a supplement not only refers to the lowest cost among various products but also what you get in a supplement for that price. The cost of electrolyte supplements is based on the quality and how much you can get out of that product for the specified price.
About Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes
Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes is a popular supplement loaded with essential electrolytes and vitamins to replenish electrolytes that may be lost during physical exercise, strenuous activities, or a medical condition.
Packed with natural ingredients, this supplement can be at a cost-effective price and used anywhere to help relieve fatigue, boost energy, and provide good hydration to the body.
Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes supplement is made in a GMP standard facility in the USA, with the best quality non-GMO ingredients that are 3rd party lab-tested and certified for purity and potency.
What it Contains
Each serving size of 1 capsule holds:
- Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxine HCI) – 10mg
- Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin) – 5mcg
- Calcium (as Calcium Carbonate) – 25mg
- Magnesium (as Magnesium Malate) – 30mg
- Zinc (as Zinc Picolinate) – 5mg
- Chloride (as Real Salt®) – 275mg
- Sodium (as Real Salt®) – 190mg
- Potassium (as Potassium Chloride) – 80mg
Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes is available as 120 easy-to-swallow capsules that can provide up to 120 servings which is a great saving for the money you spend.
The recommended dosage is just 1 capsule a day but if you train daily, you can increase the dosage accordingly for extra electrolytes. The capsules are HPMC (hypromellose capsule) vegetable capsules that pose no risks for health.
Zeal Naturals uses quality ingredients to make its Maximum Keto Electrolytes and that includes using Real Salt® from Redmond Inc. It is approved for use in Paleo Diet and Keto Diet. It is gluten-free, sugar-free, portable, and is budget-friendly for the user.
The Pros:
- An effective low-cost supplement that provides 120 servings
- Uses Real Salt® with natural minerals
- HPMC vegetarian capsule
- Approved for Keto and Paleo Diets
- Third-party tested
Summary: Zeal Naturals Maximum Keto Electrolytes supplement uses naturally effective ingredients to refill the vital electrolytes in your body. Keto and Paleo approved, it is free from sugar and gluten, ensuring safety in consumption.
3. Best for Keto – Hi-Lyte Keto K1000
A Keto diet is a popular diet that follows the pattern of high-fat, adequate-protein, and low-carb consumption to enable the body to burn more fat for energy rather than carbs.
Keto diets can lower electrolyte balance in the body owing to extreme diet restrictions. Individuals who follow this diet can benefit from using electrolyte supplements especially potassium, sodium, and magnesium to prevent adverse effects.
About Hi-Lyte Keto K1000 Electrolyte Powder
Hi-Lyte Keto K1000 is an all-natural supplement powered by essential electrolytes and nutrients that can nourish and hydrate your body instantly and effectively.
Designed specifically to support a keto diet, this supplement can hydrate your body quickly and makes up for the Daily Value(DV) requirements of potassium and other important electrolytes that you may not get from your daily diet.
Keto K1000 is made in an NSF certified facility in the USA and distributed by Adapted Nutrition. Hi-Lyte uses natural non-GMO ingredients and a reputed mineral concentrate to promote energy and muscle recovery.
What it Contains
Each serving size of 1 scoop Approx. (6g/ 0.21oz) consists of:
- Calcium (from Calcium Lactate) – 75mg
- Magnesium (from Magnesium Citrate) – 120mg
- Chloride (from Sea Salt) – 15mg
- Sodium (from Sea Salt) – 10mg
- Potassium (from Potassium Citrate) – 1000mg
- ConcernTrace© AC (Trace Mineral Complex) – 100mg
Available as a container of 300gm (0.66lb) that can provide 50 servings, Keto K1000 can also be purchased in flavors of orange, watermelon, or as unflavored too. It has ConcenTrace© AC that contains 72 ionic trace minerals as an extra fortification.
The recommended dosage is only one scoop a day mixed in 16 oz water for good hydration. First-timers can start with ½ a scoop to see tolerability and then slowly increase the quantity. People with kidney or other medical issues can seek a doctor’s advice before using this high-potassium supplement.
Keto K1000 is free from gluten, other allergens, artificial ingredients and is vegan-friendly. It uses stevia, has no maltodextrin or added sugars, and can energize at cellular levels without adverse effects.
The Pros:
- Ideal for a keto diet
- Delivers 1000mg potassium in one serving
- ConcenTrace© AC for varied mineral strength
- No added sugars or maltodextrin
Summary: Hi-Lyte Keto K1000 Electrolyte is a high-potassium and electrolyte supplements to replace lost nutrients. Free from allergens, sugars, and artificial ingredients, it can be used by everyone including vegans for support with hydration and energy.
4. Best Liquid – LyteLine Lyte Show
Liquid concentrates are a popular and effective form of electrolyte supplements that can be directly absorbed into the bloodstream for instant energy and effective rehydration.
About LyteLine Lyte Show
LyteLine Lyte Show is a unique supplement filled with the goodness of powerful electrolytes to rapidly replenish electrolyte reserves in your body.
This powerful liquid concentrate has the right proportion of vital nutrients that need to be replaced to cover the loss of electrolytes incurred through sweating or intensive exercise.
LyteLine Lyte Show is a gluten-free supplement that is made in the USA using high-quality non-GMO ingredients. It is vegan-friendly and approved for effective use in Keto and Whole 30 diets.
What it Contains
Each serving size of 3ml (0.6 tsp) gives:
- Magnesium – 40mg
- Sodium – 125mg
- Zinc – 2mg
- Chloride – 390mg
- Potassium – 130mg
- Sulphate – 20mg
Lyte Show comes as a 4 fl. oz (118 ml) bottle that can provide 40 servings and is accompanied by a travel flask. Depending on use this product can be used up to 8 servings a day and can last for 2-6 weeks.
The recommended dose is 3 ml equalling 40 drops or 1 travel flask capful mixed in 32 oz fluids for daily use. It has a slightly tart and salty flavor and can be mixed in hot or cold water and beverages such as tea, smoothies, etc.
LyteLine does not use any added sugars, sweeteners in its product. Lyte Show is also free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This supplement is covered by a 100% money-back guarantee if found unsatisfactory.
The Pros:
- A powerful liquid concentrate of 4 fl oz
- Can be mixed in hot/ cold water or other beverages
- Suitable for Keto and Whole 30 diets
- Covered by 100% money-back guarantee
Summary: LyteLine Lyte Show is a liquid electrolyte concentrate that provides quick hydration when mixed in any beverage. With no artificial ingredients, sweeteners, and gluten, it is backed by a money-back policy for user benefit.
5. Best Gluten-free – Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets
Gluten is a protein found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. Individuals with certain medical conditions have restrictions as they cannot digest gluten. Some other people avoid gluten to avoid gastrointestinal disorders. Gluten-free supplements are suitable for such individuals.
About Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets
Nuun Sports Electrolyte Tablets is a top-class supplement designed to replace electrolytes that can be lost during active days, travel, or intense fitness routines.
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets are certified gluten-free and can be consumed safely by individuals who are intolerant to gluten.
Made in the USA, this supplement is prepared using non-GMO ingredients and is Kosher certified and Vegan certified making it safe and suitable for consumption.
What it Contains
Each serving of 1 tablet (5.6g) provides:
- Calories – 10
- Total Sugars (incl 1g added sugars) – 1g
- Calcium Carbonate (as Calcium Carbonate) – 13mg
- Magnesium (as Magnesium Oxide) – 25mg
- Chloride (as Potassium Chloride) – 40mg
- Sodium (as Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Carbonate) – 300mg
- Potassium (as Potassium Bicarbonate, Potassium Chloride) – 150mg
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets are available as a pack of 4 tubes, with each one containing 10 fizzy tablets or 55 gms to provide a total of 40 servings. They come in 4 different colors and flavors – Lemon Lime, Citrus Fruit, Orange, and Tri-Berry.
The recommended use is one tablet a day added to 16 fl oz of water and consumed after 3 minutes when it is fully dissolved. More tablets can be used during training workouts, outdoor activities, and depending on your doctor’s advice.
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets do not contain any artificial flavoring or sweeteners in its product. Pure stevia leaf provides natural sweetness with just one gram sugar and beet juice, spirulina, etc provide natural colors making it a clean and safe product for consumption.
The Pros:
- A potent combination of vital electrolytes
- Dispersible tablet form for convenience
- 4 different flavors and colors in one pack
- Certified gluten-free and certified vegan
Summary: Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablet is a popular supplement that is certified gluten-free, certified vegan, Kosher, and free from all artificial ingredients. Available in natural colors and flavors, it provides rapid hydration in minutes anywhere, anytime.
6. Best Powder – Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder
Powder supplements are the most common and popular form of electrolyte supplements. The texture, dissolvability, taste, and powder contents all play a part in being the best powder supplement
About Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder
Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder is a top-quality powder supplement that rapidly recharges your body with electrolytes and minerals on consumption.
This supplement has electrolytes in effective quantities with potassium on the higher side to provide faster hydration and support smooth nerve and muscle functions.
Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder is developed and distributed by Dr. Berg Nutritionals in the USA using pure, natural non-GMO ingredients. The use of ConcenTrace© AC adds adequate mineral content to make it more effective.
What it Contains
Each serving scoop of approx. 6.8 g (0.24 oz) offers:
- Calcium (from Calcium Lactate) – 75g
- Magnesium (from Magnesium Citrate) – 120mg
- Chloride (from Pink Himalayan Salt) – 15mg
- Sodium (from Pink Himalayan Salt) – 10mg
- Potassium (from Potassium Citrate) – 1000mg
- ConcenTrace© AC (Trace Mineral Complex) – 100mg
Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder can be bought as containers of 306 gm (0.675 lb) and is designed to provide 45 servings. It is available as a natural raspberry lemon flavor and sweetened with stevia.
The recommended dosage is one scoop that can be mixed in 16 oz or 450ml of water for rapid hydration. Adults can use 1 scoop twice a day and children can use 1 scoop once a day. Since this is a high-potassium supplement, individuals with potassium restrictions should seek a practitioner’s advice before use.
Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder contains zero sugar, carbs, and maltodextrin that can support a keto diet. Free of gluten, artificial ingredients, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, this product may be the best electrolyte powder available for obtaining optimal hydration.
The Pros:
- Potent 1000mg potassium and vital electrolytes in one serving
- ConcenTrace© AC for added minerals
- Natural raspberry lemon flavor with stevia
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Summary: Dr. Berg’s Electrolyte Powder is a quality supplement with 1000 mg potassium and vital electrolytes. With added minerals, zero sugars, or artificial ingredients, it provides safe and optimal hydration, quickly and efficiently.
Risks and Side-effects of Electrolyte Supplements
Electrolytes are vital for smooth body functions and hydration. Supplements help when you need a quick replacement of electrolytes. But going overboard with electrolytes can create unnecessary health problems.
Do remember that your body gets its electrolytes from your daily diet and intake of supplements adds to them. Unless you spend the electrolytes you already have, you will end up with an excess amount that results in imbalance.
For example, we consume sodium in sufficient quantities as it is readily available in most foods. Additional sodium via supplements will leave you feeling bloated, elevate blood pressure, lead to kidney stones, and can increase the risk of heart disease.
Overconsumption of electrolyte supplements with high levels of potassium may lead to hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can impact people with kidney disease seriously.
Other electrolytes such as calcium, magnesium should also be taken in moderation as an excess can cause nausea, headaches, induce laxative effects, and affect renal functions.
Another risk of using electrolyte supplements is added sugars that are meant as energy boosters but can spike insulin levels. Artificial flavors, colors, fillers, preservatives are all factors one should avoid when you consider supplements.
Lastly, one should have enough quantity of water with whatever supplement you choose to retain enough water balance in the body.
Summary: Electrolyte supplements though useful for certain conditions can lead to an excess of nutrients that may be harmful to health. Added sugars, artificial ingredients, preservatives must be avoided to prevent any side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why Are Electrolytes Important?
Electrolytes are important to maintain the amount of water in your body. They are essential for several functions including balancing the body’s pH levels (the acid-alkaline measure), regulating muscle contraction, and supporting the nervous system.
Electrolytes can be lost due to excessive sweating in the heat, hard physical workouts, or due to medical conditions. Using electrolyte supplements may be a convenient and efficient way of replacing lost electrolytes to support regular body functions and overall well being.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Enough Electrolytes?
Electrolytes along with fluids are vital for the effective functioning of the human body. Electrolyte imbalances that occur due to lack of electrolytes can manifest as palpitations, muscle weakness, confusion, excessive thirst, numbness, etc. Most of these symptoms are temporary and can be alleviated by consuming appropriate quantities of electrolytes.
One also needs to keep in mind that just as a lack of electrolytes can trigger health issues, so does overconsumption, where excess quantities result again in an electrolyte imbalance.
How Often Can I Use Electrolyte Supplements?
Electrolyte supplements have their positives and can be taken to replace the loss of electrolytes under certain conditions such as daily workouts, engaging in physical outdoor activities such as trekking, sports activities, or to recover from medical conditions such as vomiting, diarrhea, etc.
The need for electrolyte supplements depends on an individual’s requirement and is best taken under a doctor’s advice to target optimal hydration benefits and prevent any adverse effects.
The Final Note
Electrolytes are electrically charged mineral particles that are of vital importance to maintain hydration and other functions in the human body. Loss of electrolytes can occur due to physical activities, workouts, or illness.
Essential electrolytes that consist of sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus need to be replaced to prevent health issues. Supplements available as powders, liquids, capsules, or tablets can do this job effectively.
Choosing a supplement is important and factors such as the proportion of electrolytes, dosage, convenience, suitability for individuals following veganism, keto diets, etc, use of artificial ingredients, and the cost of a product can be considered to derive maximum health benefits.