I’ve researched and tried dozens of the best electrolyte powders. Here are notes on my favorites with clean and organic ingredients with delicious low/no sugar formulations.
If you’ve ever had Gatorade or seen an ad for Pedialyte, you’ve probably heard of the term “electrolytes.” But what is this stuff, and are some formulas better than others?
Electrolytes — per the Cleveland Clinic — are “substances that have a natural electrical charge when dissolved in water,” and help our bodies function at optimal levels. Electrolytes help your body stay hydrated by balancing fluid levels inside and outside your cells. They support everything from muscle contractions and nerve signaling to maintaining your body’s pH balance. When you sweat, exercise, or even sleep, you lose electrolytes that need to be replenished to avoid symptoms like fatigue, cramps, or dizziness.
What is the science behind electrolytes and hydration support for different stages of life?
While water is vital, electrolytes help your body actually retain and use that water efficiently — making them a key player in staying hydrated at every age.
Hydration needs can shift throughout different stages of life. Kids and teens may need more fluids during growth spurts or sports, while older adults often experience a reduced sense of thirst and may need a little extra help staying hydrated. If you’re pregnant, your fluid needs increase significantly to support the growing baby, regulate amniotic fluid, and keep blood volume up. Electrolyte-rich drinks (especially ones low in sugar) can be a smart way to stay energized and reduce common symptoms like nausea or headaches. Whether you’re navigating puberty, parenthood, or simply trying to age well, hydration with electrolyte support helps your body function at its best.
Why should you consider natural electrolytes?
Unfortunately, many formulas made for electrolytes are also filled with additives, preservatives, or too much sugar. So while you may feel more hydrated, you may also feel some adverse effects later on. The good news is that you can find electrolytes in many natural foods and formulas, like potatoes (potassium), dill pickles (sodium), pumpkin seeds (magnesium), coconut water (sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus) and natural electrolyte powders. Natural electrolytes can be more beneficial as you’ll receive a balanced variety of essential minerals at higher absorption rates, and without the chemical additives.
What are the five essential electrolytes?
Whether you’re working out, recovering from illness, or just trying to stay energized, maintaining proper levels of these electrolytes is key to feeling your best.
- Sodium: Helps regulate fluid balance and supports nerve and muscle function.
- Potassium: Crucial for muscle contractions, including your heartbeat, and maintaining proper cell function.
- Magnesium: Supports muscle relaxation, energy production, and nerve health.
- Calcium: Important for bone strength, nerve signaling, and muscle movement.
- Chloride: Works closely with sodium to maintain fluid balance and stomach acid production.
Together, these electrolytes ensure that your body stays hydrated and your systems function smoothly — especially when life gets active or unpredictable.
Our criteria:
For this guide, The Good Trade’s editors have selected the best clean and organic electrolyte powders with low or no sugar based on years of research, testing, and corresponding with brands. I personally tested their top selections and made notes on taste and mineral composition. I also tested each brand by stirring one serving of electrolytes into 20oz of filtered water. Read on to see how to consume each of these in the most enjoyable way possible, and to find which one is right for you based on your taste, nutritional needs, and preferences. We will continue to update this guide based on the following criteria.
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS|We’ve combed through each ingredient in these electrolyte powders to ensure only natural and beneficial ingredients are listed.
- LOW OR NO SUGAR|Each electrolyte powder contains low or no sugar, and is either unsweetened or uses natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for flavor.
- TASTE|We’ve researched and tested these electrolyte powder mixes and can confirm they taste great and are enjoyable to drink! 🍹
Staying hydrated while being active is essential to keeping electrolyte levels in check, which is why we always keep one of these reusable water bottles on deck! Be sure to also check our our guides to our favorite sustainable activewear, nontoxic sports bras, eco-friendly running shoes, and sustainable yoga mats to re-up on any work out gear.
And while replenishing our electrolytes is key to better hydration and healthy body function, we can’t forget to keep up with our other essential supplements. Check out our guides to organic multivitamins, natural probiotics, and clean protein powders to help build your wellness routine!
Table of contents
- Best For Pregnancy & Postpartum Hydration: Perelel ($55)
- Best For Kids: Hiya ($21)
- Best For Affordable, Third-Party Tested Hydration: Quince ($20)
- Most Organic Ingredients: GOODONYA ($24+)
- Most Optimal Absorption: Needed ($46)
- Best For Trace Mineral Replacement & Cognitive Function: Moon Juice ($42+)
- Best For People With Dietary Sensitivities: Seeking Health ($40)
- Most Comprehensive Nutritional Support: IM8 ($112)
- Best For Athletes: Thorne ($40)
- Best For Plant-Based Composition: Ultima ($21+)
- Best For High-Intensity Training or Activities: LMNT ($45+)
- Most Range Of Flavors: Cure Hydration ($24+)
- Best For Multiple Formulas Designed For Specific Types Of Recovery: Waterboy ($25+)
- Why are electrolytes salty?
- Can you drink too many electrolytes?
- When should I drink electrolytes? (And is it safe to have them daily?)
- Should I drink electrolytes when I’m sick?