Is Liquid IV Good For You (From a Nutritionist)?

Liquid IV manufactures electrolyte drink mixes powered by Cellular Transport Technology (CTT)®️ According to the manufacturer, Liquid IV hydrates the bloodstream faster and more efficiently than water, making it a functional beverage to help with hydration levels.

It was created to help people optimize their lives by feeling better quickly and efficiently. 

There are five different types of Liquid IV available as of the writing of this article:

• Hydration Multiplier
• Energy Multiplier
• Hydration Plus Immune Support
• Sleep Multiplier
• Hydration Multiplier Plus Probiotic Kombucha

For hydration only, there is the Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier.

Each of the other types of Liquid IV provides fast-absorbed hydration and other potential health benefits.

The product comes in stick form, and each stick contains three times the electrolytes of traditional sports drinks and five essential vitamins. The sticks are helpful for on-the-go hydration and if you don’t want to mix a powdered sports drink or drink a big bottle of it. 

All of the Liquid IV multiplier products contain electrolytes and vitamins, some of which may benefit the immune system and certain health conditions.

All the ingredients are non-GMO, gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free.

The Lemon-Lime Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier typically contains the following ingredients:

• Cane Sugar – provides carbohydrates to aid in rapid hydration
• Dextrose – a form of glucose that enhances water absorption
• Citric Acid – adds tartness and acts as a preservative
• Salt (Sodium Chloride) – supplies sodium, an essential electrolyte
• Potassium Citrate – a source of potassium for electrolyte balance
• Sodium Citrate – helps regulate pH and supports hydration
• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) – supports immune health and acts as an antioxidant
• Natural Lemon-Lime Flavors – for flavor enhancement
• Stevia Leaf Extract – a natural, zero-calorie sweetener
• B Vitamins (B3 – Niacinamide, B5 – D-Calcium Pantothenate, B6 – Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, B12 – Cyanocobalamin) – support energy metabolism

Let’s review some of the key ingredients in more detail so you can help determine if this product is good for you or not.

Cellular Transport Technology (CTT)®️ relies on the correct ratio of sodium combined with sugar to accelerate the body’s ability to absorb water.

Liquid IV contains mined salt, which is supposedly less refined with more minerals than regular table salt. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no nutritional difference between table salt and sea salt (also called mined salt).

Also, people who have high blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, impaired muscle function or nervous system issues may need to be cautious of how much sodium they consume.

Liquid IV is also sweetened with organic stevia, which is around 200 to 400 times sweeter than sugar, but barely contains any calories. This ingredient helps reduce the sugar content of the product.

Stevia has some potential health benefits, but it may not be right for everyone. Studies have shown that it may help lower cholesterol and could be toxic to some types of cancer. 

If you want to make your own hydration drink or oral rehydration solution, you could sweeten yours with sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, fruit juices, or pure cane sugar.

Natural flavors are additives used to enhance the taste of foods and beverages, but their exact composition is often unclear.

While they are derived from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, or spices, they can be highly processed and may contain solvents, preservatives, or other chemicals that aren’t listed on the label.

This lack of transparency makes it difficult to know what you’re consuming, which can be a concern for people with food sensitivities or allergies. 

Liquid IV products only contain non-GMO ingredients.

It’s also gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free. This can’t be said for most electrolyte drinks, electrolytes supplements, and hydration products which often contain artificial sweeteners or added sugar.

Of course, it’s a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplements including electrolyte powder. Everyone is different and the human body reacts differently based on your individual situation and levels of physical activity (and overall health).

To naturally boost hydration, focus on water-rich fruits and vegetables, natural electrolyte sources, and hydrating beverages.

Fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and oranges, along with vegetables such as cucumber, celery, and lettuce, are packed with water and essential nutrients.

Natural electrolytes from coconut water, bananas, and avocados help maintain fluid balance.

Homemade hydration drinks, like cucumber-lemon water with a pinch of sea salt or chia fresca, can be refreshing and effective. Try my cucumber pineapple juice recipe.

Additionally, broths and caffeine-free herbal teas support hydration, especially in cooler weather.

Quick Hydration Boosters:

• Watermelon, cucumber, and oranges
• Coconut water and bananas
• Cucumber-lemon water with sea salt
• Chia fresca
• Bone or vegetable broth

Use my unprocessed food list PDF for easy reference and shopping inspiration.

You may also like my reviews of “Is Bai Coconut Water Good For You?” and “Is Body Armor Good For You?“

Since Liquid IV is non-GMO and made with high-quality, natural ingredients, it may be better than some hydration packs with artificial ingredients. However, choosing real food ingredients and making a sports drink homemade is probably better if you need more electrolytes, better energy levels, or a hydration boost.