Even if you are diligent about drinking water from your reusable bottle, you might still be falling short on hydration, particularly during Canada's intense summer heatwaves or when you are feeling unwell. The missing piece is often electrolytes, essential minerals that help your body retain fluids and function properly.
Why Electrolytes Are Essential for Hydration
For a previous article on combating heat exhaustion, Dr. Haris Vakil, a fellowship-trained primary care sports medicine physician, emphasized the importance of electrolytes. He noted that drinking only water can dilute the body's necessary salts, potentially causing more harm without proper electrolyte replacement. He stated that staying hydrated with a balance of electrolytes is essential, especially before strenuous activity in the heat.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, key electrolytes include sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate. While you can get them from foods like leafy greens and bananas, electrolyte drink packets offer a convenient, on-the-go solution, often with sugar-free options.
Top Hydration Boosters Available for Canadian Shoppers
The market is full of hydration boosters in various flavours and convenient formats. It is important to consult your doctor before overusing these products. Below are eight popular options, with expert endorsements noted where applicable.
1. Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier
This bestselling product claims to contain three times the electrolytes of a leading sports drink. Packed with eight vitamins and nutrients, these single-serve packets are a favourite for hot days or when feeling under the weather. They have earned over 84,000 5-star ratings on Amazon. Shopping writer Griffin Wynne uses them for extra hydration.
2. LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix
For a saltier, zero-sugar option, LMNT offers 1000 milligrams of sodium per serving, along with 200 mg of potassium and 60 mg of magnesium. Its flavours, like raspberry salt and watermelon salt, provide a unique twist.
3. Nuun Sport Hydration Tablets
In a previous HuffPost story, two experts recommended Nuun tablets as a good electrolyte source. Preparedness expert Cheryl Nelson said they provide sodium and potassium to help retain fluids in the heat. The tablets dissolve in water, contain five electrolytes and just 1 gram of sugar.
4. Moon Juice Mini Dew Electrolyte Powder
Bon Appetit named Moon Juice's unflavoured powder the best neutral option. It contains electrolytes and trace minerals to support hydration and brain function, and comes in a tub.
5. Keppi Electrolyte Powder
Formulated for vegan, keto, and paleo diets, Keppi is zero-sugar, zero-calorie, and boasts 1000 mg of potassium per serving, plus calcium, magnesium, and sodium.
6. Key Nutrients Hydration Drink Mix
This mix is packed with 10 vitamins and minerals and six electrolytes. It is zero-calorie, zero-sugar, and available in both tubs and single-serve packets.
7. Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Powder
Another zero-sugar favourite, Ultima Replenisher delivers six electrolytes, vitamin C, and zinc, with zero carbs and calories. It comes in a tub to reduce waste and in unique flavours like cherry pomegranate.
8. DripDrop Hydration Packets
Developed by a doctor, DripDrop packets boast three times the electrolytes of a leading sports drink. They are sold in themed variety packs, like tropical, and are praised for their taste.
Expert Advice for Staying Safe in Extreme Heat
Dehydration can become dangerous quickly during high temperatures. Dr. John Gallucci Jr., a physical therapist and athletic trainer, told HuffPost that electrolyte drink packets help replenish key minerals lost through sweat. Whether you choose a powder, tablet, or unflavoured mix, adding an electrolyte booster to your routine can be a simple and effective strategy for staying hydrated and healthy during Canada's hottest months.
