Electrolytes
Content by: OpenSupplement Editorial Team | Medical review: pending | Last updated: April 13, 2026
TL;DR
Balanced sodium, potassium, and magnesium for hydration support
Popular among athletes, low-carb dieters, and high-sweat individuals
Can help prevent cramps and support performance
Higher sodium content than traditional sports drinks
Quality varies widely between brands
Best for: Active individuals, keto dieters, those with high sweat rates
What it is
Electrolyte supplements combine the key minerals lost through sweat: sodium, potassium, and magnesium, often with smaller amounts of chloride and calcium. Unlike traditional sports drinks that focus on carbohydrate replacement, modern electrolyte products emphasize mineral balance without added sugars.
The category exploded with brands like LMNT, which popularized higher-sodium formulations (1000mg+ per serving) based on research showing most people, especially active individuals, consume inadequate sodium. These products target athletes, ketogenic dieters who lose extra sodium, and anyone living in hot climates or with high sweat rates.
What the research says
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Electrolytes on Amazon
Safety
Electrolyte supplements are generally safe for healthy adults, but the high sodium content in many products requires consideration. People with kidney disease, heart failure, or uncontrolled high blood pressure should consult healthcare providers before using high-sodium electrolyte products. Starting with half-doses helps assess tolerance. Excessive intake can cause nausea, digestive upset, or electrolyte imbalances. Those on low-sodium diets should choose lower-sodium formulations.
Interactions
• Blood pressure medications - High sodium content may reduce effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs • Diuretics - May counteract fluid-reducing effects • ACE inhibitors/ARBs - Potassium content may cause hyperkalemia when combined • Potassium-sparing diuretics - Risk of dangerous potassium elevation • Lithium - Sodium intake affects lithium levels, monitor closely
Dosing
General Hydration: 1 serving (typically 1000mg sodium, 200mg potassium, 60mg magnesium) per day, preferably with water during or after exercise.
High-Sweat Activities: 1-2 servings during prolonged exercise or hot weather exposure.
Ketogenic Diet Support: 1-2 servings daily to replace sodium lost during ketosis adaptation.
Travel/Heat Exposure: 1 serving daily when traveling to hot climates or during heat waves.
Start with half-doses to assess tolerance. Take with adequate water (16-20oz per serving).
Cost
Electrolyte supplements range significantly in price. Premium brands like LMNT, Redmond Re-Lyte, or Seeking Health cost $30-45 per month for daily use. Mid-range options like Ultima or Nuun tablets cost $20-35 monthly. Generic electrolyte powders are available for $15-25 per month. The cost per serving varies from $0.50 for budget options to $2+ for premium brands. Bulk purchasing and subscription services often reduce costs.
The bottom line
Electrolyte supplements fill a real need for active individuals, especially those following low-carb diets or living in hot climates. The research supporting proper electrolyte balance for performance and health is solid. However, the market is flooded with products of varying quality and formulations. Focus on third-party tested products with clinically relevant amounts of sodium (500-1000mg), potassium (200-400mg), and magnesium (50-100mg) per serving. Most people will benefit more from these than traditional sports drinks.
Sources for this page include published meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and NIH dietary supplement fact sheets. All claims reflect the evidence as of early 2026.
This is not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.