Liquid I.V. Hydration Packets: Are They Worth the Hype in 2024?

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As summer approaches, the lure of the outdoors and sunshine could be wreaking havoc with your hydration. Whether you're a runner, swimmer or gardener, dehydration is a common issue that impacts about 75% of Americans at any point throughout their day. While we know the importance, it can feel like quite the task to drink the recommended 8-10 glasses of water each day. Still, it’s important to understand why being hydrated is necessary for your body and the different ways you can achieve proper hydration.

Liquid I.V. can keep you hydrated with an easily accessible hydration packet that is mixed with water. Let's take a closer look at Liquid I.V.—specifically, how it works, if it's worth the hype and how it compares to competing products on the market in 2024.

Answers to those questions will help determine if Liquid I.V. is right for you. As always, consult with your healthcare provider before consuming new products.

P.S. Want to try a different option? We recommend Kaged Hydra-Charge as our number one pick for the best electrolyte powder. 

What is Liquid I.V., How Does it Work & What Are the Benefits?

Liquid I.V. is a product that claims to hydrate you quicker (as opposed to drinking water alone) by utilizing vitamins and minerals to most effectively transport fluid throughout the body.

More specifically, Liquid I.V. uses something the brand calls Cellular Transport Technology (CTT), which they claim delivers necessary nutrients quickly into the bloodstream. CTT contains sodium, glucose and potassium that play a role in getting the nutrients into the bloodstream. It works like this:

● When combined with sugar, sodium speeds up the absorption of water and solute into the bloodstream.

● Glucose is used for function and not taste. When glucose is combined with salt, it speeds up the absorption of water and solute into the bloodstream.

● Potassium is an electrolyte that helps maintain the proper balance of fluid while carrying nutrients in the bloodstream.

Liquid I.V. Pros and Cons

Before introducing a new liquid hydration product into your diet and lifestyle, it’s always important to weigh the pros and cons—then determine if the former outweighs the latter. We’ve broken down both below.

Liquid I.V. Pros:

● It comes in many flavors and customizable packets.

● Convenient to use. Simply mix with water.

● The packets contain more essential vitamins, nutrients and electrolytes than most sports drinks.

● This is also a good option for intense workouts that dehydrate the body and deplete electrolytes.

Liquid I.V. Cons:

● Liquid I.V. is more expensive than water, averaging $1.53 per packet if bought in a 16-pack bundle. The price decreases as you buy larger bundles, but buying in bulk may not work based on your budget.

● The taste of the Liquid I.V. isn’t for everyone. Some consumers have reported that they don't like the flavor options available.

● A lot of people ask if Liquid I.V. has caffeine. The Energy Multiplier contains about 100 mg of caffeine, so if you have caffeine sensitivities, the energy version of Liquid I.V. may not be for you.

● The product doesn’t ship internationally; it only ships within the United States.

Who Should Use Liquid I.V.?

Liquid I.V. doesn't clearly state who should use the product. Currently, there are no reviews or concerns about limiting certain populations or people. However, it is important to note that a few consumers report some digestive issues and vomiting.

If you find yourself sensitive to certain ingredients, you may want to test them out before using the whole packet. Check out the label before purchasing to ensure you don't have a known allergy to any ingredients. You should also speak with your health provider before trying new products.

Where to Buy Liquid I.V.

Liquid I.V. is sold by most major retailers as well as pharmacies and grocery stores. If you are looking for a particular Liquid I.V. product-for instance, the Sleep Multiplier or larger hydration packs-you can use the search functionality at liquid-iv.com.

Is Liquid I.V. Worth It?

Our verdict is: If you aren't properly hydrated, Liquid I.V. is an excellent way to boost your body, especially during illness or dehydration. That said, while Liquid I.V. is helpful, it should not replace your usual water intake.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Liquid I.V.

Before using any version of Liquid I.V., make sure you aren't sensitive to specific ingredients. For example, according to Mayo Clinic, not everyone reacts well to melatonin, which is used in the Liquid I.V. Sleep Multiplier. While it is a natural sleep aid, it may not be right for everyone. Before going all in and buying a large batch of Liquid I.V., try one of the hydration sticks to make sure your body reacts well to it.

Ingredients

Since there are several Liquid I.V. options, each one will have a different set of ingredients based on its purpose and flavor. We've outlined some of the main ingredients below and why they are used in the product.

1. Stevia leaf extract: Organic sweetener to help make the product more palatable. Plus, it has zero calories.

2. Silicon dioxide: Natural material used as a powder to make the drink smoother.

3. Dipotassium phosphate: Water-soluble electrolyte that also contains potassium.

4. Citric acid: Used to stabilize the flavor and is non-artificial. Liquid I.V. gets it from natural resources like potatoes or cassava roots.

5. Vitamins B3, B6 and B12: B3 is known for aiding cholesterol levels, B6 benefits the nervous system and metabolism and B12 helps our body manage red blood cells.

6. Vitamin C: Focuses on restoring body tissue and boosting the immune system.

7. Potassium citrate: Helps the CTT system function and is responsible for carrying the hydration throughout the blood. It can also help muscle cramping and bone health.

8. Sodium citrate: Salt that is within the citric acid.

9. Mined salt: Sodium is another critical factor of CTT. Added to the natural sugars in Liquid I.V., it aids the absorption of fluids. That's why Liquid I.V. tastes salty to some people.

10. Dextrose: Natural sugar found in the body; it's easily absorbed and helps with hydration.

11. Pure cane sugar: Non-GMO sugar source accelerates water absorption into the bloodstream while making it tasty.

12. Natural flavors: Extracted from natural sources like vegetables and fruits, this enhances the flavor of your Liquid I.V. hydration packets.

Note that Liquid I.V. is also gluten-free, non-GMO, soy-free and dairy-free for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Ingredients in each type of Liquid I.V. product have a purpose. For instance, the Sleep Multiplier has melatonin, L-Theanine and valerian roots, known as natural sleep-aids. The Hydration Multiplier + Immune Boost has the same ingredients as the Hydration Multiplier but adds some vitamins and minerals including zinc, Vitamin C and Wellmune to boost the immune system. The Energy Multiplier includes matcha, ginger and guayusa (a caffeinated tea).

Flavors and Varieties

While the Hydration Multiplier is the base packet, there are a few other products you may want to try, including the Energy Multiplier, the Sleep Multiplier and the Hydration Multiplier + Immune Support. The Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier comes in nine flavors:

● Pina Colada

● Concord grape

● Golden cherry

● Acai berry

● Agave

● Passion fruit

● Strawberry

● Watermelon

● Lemon-lime

The Energy Multiplier packs come in lemon ginger flavor. The Sleep Multiplier comes in blueberry lavender and the Hydration Multiplier + Immune Support comes in tangerine flavor.

Nutrition Facts

You can expect a variety of valuable nutrients in a single pack of Liquid I.V., including Potassium, Vitamin C and many others. While each packet varies slightly, you should expect low calories and 0 percent fat. Carbs, sugars and sodium should be evaluated for each packet. Keep in mind that each packet contains 500 mg (22% Daily Value) of sodium. Consult with your healthcare provider to learn if the ingredients are a good fit for your dietary needs and restrictions.

Price

If you purchase from a retailer, the individual packets cost about $1.50. Both Amazon and the Liquid I.V. website sell larger packets, decreasing the price per packet. For instance, the strawberry Hydration Multiplier packets cost about $25 for 16 packets. For the Hydration Multiplier, you can get a pack of 96 for $120. There is also a ''subscribe and save'' option on all products on the website to further decrease costs. It's important to note this option is not available for all items, so pay attention to the fine print.

Other Bundles, Promotions and Discounts

Liquid I.V. includes an option to ''build your own multiplier bundle.'' This is a convenient option for people who like to mix up flavors or may want to use several different products. This customization enables you to choose up to six different flavors. If you add two multipliers, you ''unlock'' 10 percent off.

The Brand

Liquid I.V. is a brand that gives back to the community. With every purchase, it will donate a serving of its hydration products to someone in need, such as hospitals, disaster areas and impoverished populations.

Liquid I.V. currently has donated more than 16 million servings, including 28,000 to Haiti and 2.8 million packets to hospitals supporting frontline workers during the pandemic. The company also focuses on making more sustainable products through different packaging and manufacturing options.

Alternatives to Liquid I.V.

XWerks Motion

XWerks Motion is formulated with 25g carbs per serving from ClusterDextrin, an easily digestible corn starch based carb. You’ll also get 3g BCAAs and electrolytes in this easy-to-mix formula. For $49, you get 30 servings per bag, and you can choose between raspberry lemonade and watermelon.

Transparent Labs Core Series Hydrate

Transparent Labs Hydrate is packed with ingredients including calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and taurine to help you rehydrate and recover. For $29, you’ll get 40 servings per container of this tropical punch flavored electrolyte powder.

Gainful Hydration

As with other Gainful products, you’ll get a personalized product to support your hydration needs. For $30, you’ll get 21 single-serve packets and you can choose between lemon-lime and strawberry lemon flavors. While your exact electrolyte formula will vary slightly, the Gainful Hydration contains no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners and is non-GMO and plant-based.

Kaged Hydra-Charge

Like other hydration products, this one contains electrolytes and taurine, but what sets Kaged Hydra-Charge apart is a formula with a blend of 29 fruits and vegetables. You’ll get 60 servings for $30, and you can choose fruit punch, strawberry yuzu, glacier grape, pink lemonade, orange mango or apple limeade flavors.

Liquid I.V. FAQs

Should I drink Liquid I.V. before or after a workout?

It's whatever works for you! Start by identifying the time of the day when your water intake is low. For instance, coffee lovers may focus solely on their java in the morning, so adding some Liquid I.V. to a glass of water may be a good idea. Others may find it is more appropriate after their workouts.

How much Liquid I.V. can you have in one day?

It depends on which Liquid I.V. product you purchase. The Hydration Multiplier should be used with a 16-ounce glass of water. The Energy Multiplier and Sleep Multiplier should be added to 12 and eight ounces of water, respectively. Each packet includes instructions for appropriate use.

Can I put it in hot or cold drinks?

Either! Most people add it to room temperature or cold water. However, it can be consumed hot, perfect during the cold, snowy months. Add some extra hydration into your tea, cocoa or other comfort beverage. It's recommended that you consume it as quickly as possible to maximize the results. However, it can be saved for one to two days or frozen for future consumption. 

Is Liquid I.V. better than Gatorade?

Liquid I.V. vs Gatorade? We're not surprised you asked. Liquid I.V. doesn't come ready to drink like Gatorade, but it has fewer sugars and calories. It also contains vitamins and minerals that Gatorade doesn't. There's also a Liquid I.V. vs Pedialyte debate. Pedialyte is a worthy low calorie, low sugar competitor, but like Gatorade, it lacks the variety of vitamins and minerals that Liquid I.V. has.  

Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing.