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12 best electrolyte drinks to keep you hydrated, approved by nutritionists
Replenish your stores after exercise or a boozy night out with our tried and tested picks
Tested by Angela Trofymova and Kim Hawley
Over the past few years, a myriad of brightly coloured electrolyte drinks have hit the shelves, promising to enhance your fitness, boost hydration and supercharge your recovery.
But what exactly are they, should you be factoring them into to your daily routine and what are the best electrolyte powders and drinks on the market?
Below, we break down everything you need to know but, in short, electrolytes contain essential salts and minerals to help replenish those lost through sweat. If you’re exercising for over an hour and you’re dripping with sweat afterwards (think long runs, hardcore hikes and spin classes), topping up on electrolytes is probably a good idea.
Exercise aside, electrolyte supplements can also be handy for rehydrating when you’re ill, travelling on a plane, when it's particularly hot outside, or if you're battling a bit of a hangover.
The best electrolyte powders, drinks and tablets for 2025
At a glance, these are the best electrolyte powders, tablets and drinks on the market right now, all tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute and approved by nutritionists. Read on for their in-depth reviews.
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Looking to stock up on sports supplements? We've also tested the best protein bars, the best creatine supplements and the best energy gels, bars and chews.
What are electrolytes?
Electrolytes are essential salts and minerals – including sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate and bicarbonate – that carry an electrical charge.
Why are they important? According to Tina Lond-Caulk, lead nutritionist at Smart Protein, they play a crucial role in more than 300 bodily functions, including carrying nutrients into – and waste products out of – the cells, building new tissue, regulating blood pressure and transmitting nerve impulses from the nervous system to the rest of the body.
“Perhaps most importantly, they help to keep us hydrated, regulating the amount of water in and out of our cells to keep them functioning properly,” she adds.
Is it worth taking electrolytes?
If you’re exercising moderately for less than an hour and you’re eating a balanced diet, chances are, you’re getting enough electrolytes from your daily food intake. The best way to top up on salts after exercise is with a nutrient-dense meal and a large glass of water. Electrolyte-rich foods such as kale, spinach, broccoli, eggs and strawberries can all help you replenish your stores naturally.
However, if you’re engaging in intense exercise that lasts over an hour or you’re sweating profusely, sipping one of our best electrolyte drinks could be a good idea. Supplementing your electrolytes is also advisable if you’re working out in intense heat for 30 minutes or longer.
“Electrolyte drinks can replace fluids lost through sweat quickly and efficiently, and prevent some of the serious symptoms of dehydration,” says Lond-Caulk. “They provide cells with the essential minerals they need to help your muscles and nerves function properly.”
She adds that they can have a major impact on your athletic performance, helping to prevent fatigue, boost endurance, encourage faster recovery and even promote muscle growth.
Not into fitness? Having some electrolyte tablets lying around in the cupboard can also be useful if you’re struggling with diarrhoea, vomiting or you’re dehydrated due to a hangover. They're also handy for periods of hot weather when you're sweating and losing more fluid.
How we test electrolytes
We recruited a panel of nutritionists and dieticians – including Megan Foulsham and Ruby Chauhan from Calo – to help us find the best electrolyte drinks. They judged each product on quality of ingredients, nutritional make-up and formulation. At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our editors, food testers and fitness pros did shots of electrolytes (yes, really!) and rated each for its flavour, consistency, and ease of use.
Once all testing was complete, feedback was analysed, and final scores were awarded. Find our winners below, along with a selection of electrolyte drinks that have previously been tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute and a panel of 200 fitness enthusiasts.
Score: 97/100
As one of the leading sports nutrition brands, Science in Sports certainly knows a thing or two about fuelling workouts. These top-scoring tabs, which earned an instant thumbs up from our nutritionists and in-house testers, were developed to keep the British sailing team hydrated during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
They contain optimal amounts of sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium, plus a healthy dose of B vitamins and green tea extract, to boost your energy levels and enhance mental focus. The zingy grapefruit flavour we tried was light and refreshing and the tablets dissolved easily in water, with no powdery residue lurking at the bottom of our water bottle.
Need an extra hit of energy? SiS also offers a caffeinated option.
Per serving: 8kcal, 0.6g carbohydrates, 0.8g salt
Score: 97/100
Many electrolyte drinks taste salty and chalky, but this refreshing can from BetterYou is a genuinely delicious way to boost your hydration. Our panel praised the zingy lemonade-esque flavour and said it was extremely easy to glug down – exactly what you want post-workout or when you’re battling a hangover.
It contains an 180mg blend of high-quality magnesium citrate, magnesium glycinate and Irish Sea minerals to help replenish your stores and fight fatigue, whether you’ve completed a 5k, or you simply need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
It’s a top choice if you’re looking for a low-calorie, low-sugar option (there are just 3g of sugar per 250ml can) and it scores highly for portability, too. Just be wary of overdoing it – each can contains 48% of your recommended daily magnesium allowance.
Per serving: 20kcal, 3g carbohydrates, 0.0075g salt
Score: 94/100
These citrus-flavoured tablets contain a mega 1000mg of sodium per litre when dissolved in 500ml of water, making them a top choice for hydrating after tough training sessions or when exercising in the heat. They’re also a great shout for the salty sweaters out there.
Our panel liked the natural zingy taste, which they thought would be easy to sip over long periods without getting bored. The thin texture was spot on and there was no unpleasant salty aftertaste, either. Hurrah!
Don't need such a mighty hit of electrolytes? Precision Hydration offers a range of strengths to accommodate all needs.
Per serving: 16kcal, 2.2g carbohydrates, 1g salt
Score: 94/100
As the name suggests, this carbonated can from B Corp-certified brand Punchy is designed for daily hydration, not serious endurance sessions. It contains a blend of electrolytes (potassium, magnesium and pink Himalayan salt) along with vitamins C, D and zinc to keep you hydrated, prevent tiredness, fight muscle soreness and help support your immune system.
Like the BetterYou drink above, it was highly rated for taste and texture. Our panel loved the “light fizz” and said the tropical fruity flavour hit just the right level of sweetness.
It boasts a snappy, all-natural ingredients list, with no artificial sweeteners or preservatives. Keep in mind, however, that agave syrup has a high fructose content and may cause gut woes for those with sensitive stomachs.
Per serving: 56kcal, 13.5g carbohydrates
Score: 93/100
These handy sachets from viral electrolyte brand Liquid I.V. are great for slipping in your bag, whether you’re off to work out, travelling or just feeling dehydrated and groggy.
They’re powered by patented Cellular Transport Technology, which, the brand claims, provides the optimal ratio of sodium, glucose, potassium and water to encourage faster absorption into your bloodstream. Each stick also contains a healthy dose of vitamins including C, B3, B5, B6 and B12 – especially useful for those who follow a plant-based diet and want to up their intake.
The fine powder dissolved well in 500ml of water – with no unwanted lumps or residue – and testers said the sweet fruity flavour was pleasant, although the texture was a tad thick. Still, they’d happily mix it into their water bottles to help them stay on top of their hydration game.
If you’re keeping an eye on your sugar intake, keep in mind that it is a tad higher in sugar (11g) than some of the other options on this list.
Per serving: 45kcal, 11g carbohydrates, 570mg sodium
Score: 91/100
Like the Precision Hydration option above, these hydration tablets contain a hefty 1000mg of sodium, along with a hit of potassium, magnesium and calcium for faster recovery and longer endurance. The mix is hypotonic, which means it has a lower solute concentration than the body, allowing speedier absorption. It’s also gentle on the stomach and free from sugar and artificial preservatives. Tick, tick, tick.
The subtle citrus flavour proved popular with panellists, who thought it made a refreshing change to the usual sweet, sickly suspects, and they liked that you can easily split the tablet in half for less intense workouts.
Per serving: 11kcal, 0.5g carbohydrates, 1.01g salt
Score: 91/100
According to our tasting panel, these popular hydration sticks – which come in a range of flavours like elderberry, Himalayan lime and lychee – are “very drinkable”. They likened the flavour (which was neither too sweet nor too salty) to a light fruit squash and said the fine powder dissolved well in water.
The convenient sachets also got our nutritionists’ seal of approval. They contain the key electrolytes needed to maintain fluid balance and support hydration, along with vitamin B12 – a useful addition for veggies and vegans. They’re also free from artificial flavours and colours, using Stevia leaf as a sweetener instead.
As a bonus, the supplement is Informed Sport certified, which provides an extra layer of quality assurance.
Per 5.g serving: 10kcal, <1g carbohydrates, 200mg sodium
Score: 89/100
Free Soul is best known for its viral greens powder (you can read about it in our best greens powders roundup) but its electrolytes should be on your radar, too.
Our nutritionists rated the ingredients list, which includes key electrolytes, sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium malate – a type of magnesium which is particularly easy to absorb, supports muscle function and helps reduce cramping. Each serving also provides a dose of vitamin C and zinc to boost post-workout recovery.
Flavour-wise, the balance of sharp citrus with a hint of sweetness was a hit with our panellists, who said the drink was “really light and fresh” and “not overpowering at all.” As a bonus, the sachets are handy for endurance events or taking on holiday.
The product swerves sugar and is sweetened with stevia instead. Just note, this can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort for some.
Per 7g serving: 3.6g carbohydrates, 2.17g salt
Score: 86/100
This Austrian ‘microdrink’ brand (Novak Djokovic is an ambassador and investor, by the way) is making waves in the world of sports nutrition with its innovative rapid hydration cubes. Each one dishes up a potent mix of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and chloride), along with a handful of vitamins including A, B6, B12, C, E and zinc to rehydrate the body and maintain a healthy immune system. Simply dissolve one cube in 400-600ml of water, depending on your preference, and get on with your day.
The hypotonic blend scored top marks for taste, with testers comparing it to fruit cordial, and they raved about the “smooth consistency" and snappy, plant-based ingredients list. Just note, if you’ve got a serious endurance activity planned or you’re a particularly sweaty person (no judgement), opt for one of the stronger options in this round-up instead, as the mineral levels are on the lower side here.
Per serving: 5kcal, 1g carbohydrates, 25mg sodium
Phizz 3-in-1 Hydration Electrolytes & Vitamins Tablets (20 tablets)
Score: 85/100
Whether you need to bounce back after a sweat-soaked session or you’re feeling a little ropey, these convenient drop-into-drink tablets will help you on the road to recovery. Not only are they packed with key electrolytes (sodium, chloride, magnesium and potassium), they contain 18 essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, zinc and B vitamins, to support athletic performance and boost overall wellbeing. According to the brand, one tab will help you rehydrate three times faster than drinking water alone.
We tried the tropical mango flavour, which was pleasantly fizzy and enjoyable to drink, but there are a host of options to try including classic orange, apple and mixed berry. They dissolved well in water and the tubes are handy for hydrating on the go.
Just make sure not to overdo it if you’re already taking multivitamins.
Per serving: 10kcal, 2g carbohydrates, 0.8g salt
Score: 80/100
Innermost features in our best protein powders and best pre-workout supplements round-ups, so it’s no surprise the brand’s new electrolyte sachets performed well during testing. We tried the lemon and mint flavour, which reminded our panel of a “natural, refreshing lemonade”. They noted that it was tangy and not overly sweet, making it easy to sip on the go. The consistency – not too fizzy or gritty when dissolved in 500ml of cold water – was also a hit with testers.
Containing six key electrolytes (chloride, magnesium, potassium sodium, calcium and phosporus) plus B and C vitamins for an extra boost, drinking this mid or post-workout should help you feel restored and rejuvenated. It’s free from artificial flavours and preservatives, plus each serving contains 0g of sugar, so it’s a good choice if you’re watching your intake.
Per 4g serving: 4kcal, 0g carbohydrates, 12mg salt
Score: 77/100
Higher in calories, carbs and sugar than the other electrolyte blends listed here, this great value iso drink, which combines a healthy dose of salt and minerals along with B and C vitamins, should be your go-to for glugging during endurance activities lasting up to three hours, whether it’s a run, bike ride or hike.
Despite the significant carb boost, the consistency is smooth and light enough to keep you feeling bouncy – just what you want when you’re on the move. Its packaging also features a useful pouring spout, and it mixed brilliantly in water, but the measuring cap proved a little awkward to use.
Per serving: 131kcal, 33g carbohydrates, 1g salt
What are the symptoms of low electrolytes?
Nutritionist Dr Naomi Newman-Beinar explains that electrolyte imbalances can occur due to a variety of factors, including intense physical activity, extreme heat, illness, alcohol or an inadequate diet.
Here, she shares some of the common symptoms related to a lack of electrolytes:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Muscle cramps and weakness
- Headaches and light-headedness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Irregular heart rate
If you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms through intense sweating, you may benefit from supplementing with electrolyte drinks.
If you’re on medication or are concerned about an electrolyte imbalance, it’s always advisable to seek guidance from your GP or pharmacist.
Can you drink too many electrolytes?
If you’re getting enough electrolytes naturally from your diet, sipping on an electrolyte drink may not be necessary, but it’s unlikely to cause you any harm, as the excess electrolytes will be eliminated by the kidneys.
That said, electrolyte drinks aren’t for everyone. If you have a kidney disease, high blood pressure or are taking certain medications, they may not be suitable. It’s best to check with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
When should you drink electrolytes?
When you need to take electrolytes depends on your personal exercise routine and how you're feeling.
Before a workout: Lond-Caulk says that consuming electrolytes before exercise will ensure you start your workout with the optimal level of essential minerals needed and may prevent fatigue or cramps occurring in the middle of your session. This is particularly useful if you tend to perspire a lot, you’re a salty sweaty (if your sweat stings or leaves a white residue on your clothing) or you’re training outdoors in the heat.
During a workout: For those engaging in endurance activities or taking part in competitions, Newman-Beinar suggests slipping an electrolyte tablet or powder sachet into your drinks bottle so you can glug on the go. “This will help stave off dehydration, prevent fatigue and support optimal performance,” she explains.
After a workout: “You continue to lose electrolytes through sweat after you’ve finished exercising, so it’s crucial to replenish your levels afterwards,” says Lond-Caulk. Not only will an electrolyte drink replace lost minerals, but it will also help you feel revitalised and bounce back quicker.
After a boozy night out: Alcohol is a diuretic, so when we drink, we become dehydrated and experience an electrolyte imbalance. Glugging an electrolyte drink the morning after a big night out will help rehydrate you faster than just a glass of water, but keep in mind that it's not a magic bullet.
The verdict on electrolytes
If you're on the hunt for the best electrolyte tablets, look to our joint winner, the Science in Sport Hydro Hydration Tablets, which contain optimal amounts of electrolytes and dissolve well.
Want a hydration drink that actually tastes good? BetterYou's Magnesium Mineral Water is ideal for glugging after a workout and everyday use. The cans are extremely convenient, too.
For those who want a more natural option, Humantra's hydration sticks, which are free from artificial flavours and sweeteners, are worth considering.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
Kim Hawley is the health and wellness tester for the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she oversees testing for a range of wellness products. She has over 30 years' experience in the fitness industry, with a level 4 personal training qualification, a nutrition qualification and over 20 years of experience working in leading health clubs across the UK.
For this test, we also enlisted the help of sports nutritionists to cut through the noise and provide recommendations you can rely on.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, we test thousands of products every year to find the very best on the market. We put each and every product through rigorous testing, both in real-world and lab conditions.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Angela is our Head of Testing managing all categories from Food & Drink to Homes. She has over 14 years’ food industry experience, helping companies such as Sainsbury’s, Pret, Nando’s and Leon achieve sustainable growth through innovative product development – and she’s even cooked for Heston Blumenthal! Her sensory evaluation training and finely honed taste buds means she knows exactly what’s worth spending money on. She led the food and drink testing team, who test more than 1,000 products each year, for seven years. Angela is WSET wine level 2 certified and has been a judge five years in a row for the British Sandwich Awards and the Pizza and Pasta Awards.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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