To stay hydrated and invigorated throughout the summer heat, I set out on a search to discover a trustworthy hydration drink. A product called Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier caught my attention, due to their promise to provide enhanced hydration. I made the decision to give it a shot and put it to the test because of its promises.
Liquid IV aims to enhance hydration and replenish essential nutrients by blending electrolytes and supplementary vitamins within its formulation. Does it, then, make a unique claim? Visit my reviews to learn more about this response. There, I will discuss my own experience with Liquid IV Hydration Drink and offer opinions on its flavor, potency, and overall worth. But before we get started, let’s learn a little about the business responsible for this intriguing drink combination.
About the Brand
Liquid IV Hydration drinks, developed and promoted by Liquid I.V., were created in 2012 by entrepreneur Brandin Cohen and subsequently acquired by consumer goods powerhouse Unilever in 2020. Their diverse offerings encompass electrolyte drink mixes, probiotic kombucha drink mixes, immune support drink mixes, and energy drink mixes. Utilizing Cellular Transport Technology (CTT®️), the company claims that these hydration drinks efficiently deliver vital nutrients directly into the bloodstream, optimizing their effectiveness. Liquid IV also states that they have donated more than 31 million hydration sticks to unhoused individuals, people of Haiti, humanitarian organizations and frontline workers battling COVID-19.
Introduction To Liquid IV Hydration Drinks
Liquid IV Hydration drinks are intended to be used as electrolyte replacements. Some additional ingredients are added depending on the product’s intended benefits. According to the company’s website, Liquid I.V. hydration drinks contain a specific ratio of ingredients necessary for active transport. It is stated that this hydration multiplier is created to increase your hydration faster and more effectively than water alone.
The manufacturer claims that Liquid I.V. is an electrolyte drink that works more efficiently and quickly than water to deliver water and important nutrients to the bloodstream. Although the product is best used before exercise and travel, the manufacturer asserts that Liquid I.V. products can also help with focus and concentration, hangover treatment, energy boosting, anxiety or stress reduction, and other conditions. Let’s look at the product label for this hydration multiplier, showing the main macronutrients and base ingredients below.
Calories
Based on product labeling, 1 stick of Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier has 45 calories. Compared to other hydration drinks, this hydration drink has a high amount of calories, which might not be a good choice for people currently on a low-calorie diet. If you ingest supplements with high-calorie values, it may disrupt your dietary regime and contribute to weight gain. So, while drinking this hydration drink, you should count calories to avoid weight gain issues.
Total Carbs
It’s crucial to consider macronutrients like carbohydrates while taking supplements. Why? Well, Consuming the right amount of carbohydrates is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being. [1] While carbohydrates are an important energy source, excess consumption can lead to weight gain and may increase the risk of developing conditions. Moreover, in this hydration multiplier, the total carb amount is 11g with 11g of sugar, which may not be suitable for those following a low-carb diet like a keto or paleo diet. [2] Therefore, while using this hydration drink on a low-carb diet, it is vital to watch your total carbs. It also may raise a red flag for those who are watching their sugar intake.
Key Ingredients
Next, check out below, where I dig deep into this hydration drink’s base ingredient list.
Electrolyte Mix
While researching, I found that updated sodium A.I.s are 1,500 mg daily for ages 14 and older. At the same time, potassium A.I.s for adult age groups range from 2,300 to 3,400 mg daily. However, less sodium and potassium may be responsible for electrolyte imbalance. So, taking a sufficient amount of electrolytes is necessary.
Moreover, product labeling shows this hydration drink has 500 mg of sodium and 370 mg of potassium. It is quite a decent amount to boost electrolytes. However, while taking this electrolyte drink, ensure you do not exceed your electrolyte limits.
Vitamins and Minerals
Besides electrolytes and sweeteners, the Liquid IV Hydration Drinks also has various vitamins to boost nutrient levels, including 2.28mg of vitamin B, 6.82mg of vitamin B12, 22.8mg of vitamin B3, and 76mg of Vitamin C. These micronutrients are crucial for maintaining fluid balance, supporting nerve function, promoting hydration, and aiding muscle contractions.
Available Flavors In Liquid IV Hydration Drinks
There are 12 different flavors of Hydration Drinks available. These flavors include Seaberry, Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Punch, Pina Colada, Concord Grape, Golden Cherry, Acai Berry, Guava, Lemon Lime, Passion Fruit, Strawberry, and Watermelon.
My Experience With Liquid IV Hydration Drinks
I recently tried the Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier, and my experience with it has been a mix of positive and not-so-positive aspects.
On the positive side, the product is incredibly convenient and easy to use. The individual packets make it convenient to carry and prepare on the go. The instructions are simple, requiring mixing the powder with water, which quickly dissolves to create a flavored hydration drink. It definitely helped me stay hydrated during intense workouts and hot summer days.
In terms of taste, there were some flavors that I found quite enjoyable, like the lemon-lime. The flavors were refreshing and made drinking water more enjoyable. However, I also encountered a couple of flavors that didn’t quite appeal to my palate, which was a bit disappointing.
Another aspect that I appreciated about the Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier was its claim to provide hydration benefits equivalent to drinking two to three bottles of water. It contains a specific ratio of electrolytes that helps the body absorb water more efficiently. I did notice that it helped me feel more hydrated and replenished, especially after periods of intense physical activity.
However, on the downside, I found the price of Liquid IV to be a bit steep compared to other hydration products on the market. It is important to consider the cost when deciding on a regular hydration solution, especially if you plan on using it frequently. Additionally, while the product claims to provide various vitamins and minerals, I found that it was not a comprehensive replacement for a balanced diet. It’s important to remember that this is primarily a hydration product and should not be relied upon as a sole source of nutrition.
How To Use
To take it, open a packet of Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier and fill a 16 to 20 fl. oz. water bottle with water (you can adjust the water amount based on your preference). Pour the contents of the packet into the water bottle, securely close it, and shake for 20-30 seconds to ensure proper dissolution. Once the powder is mixed, your hydration drink is ready to be consumed.
Who Should Buy?
Those who want dairy free drinks.
Those who have sensitives in gluten and soy.
Those who want to boost their energy.
Who Shouldn’t Buy?
Those who are following a low calorie diet.
Those who have high blood sugar levels.
Possible Benefits
May boost instant energy: This water enhancer has an adequate amount of essential electrolytes and minerals that give an instant energy boost.
Possibly give healthy cellular support: As this drink mix contains vitamin B, it may give healthy cellular support. [3]
Potential Downsides and Consideration
Besides possible benefits, the Liquid I.V. has several downsides, such as:
Contains a high amount of calories: This water enhancer has a high amount of calories, which may not be suitable for those who want to limit their calories or follow low carb diets like keto or atkins.
Has a high amount of sugar and sodium: This drink mix has a high amount of sugar and sodium, which may contribute to weight gain and induce blood sugar and blood pressure.
Price And Where To Buy
The price for a pack of Hydration Multiplier sticks is $24.99. This means that each stick costs $1.56. It’s a convenient option for those who prefer purchasing the product without committing to a subscription.
But if you choose the monthly subscription, you can save some money. The monthly subscription price for the Hydration Multiplier is $19.24. With this subscription, the price per stick decreases to $1.20, providing additional savings.
The subscription option ensures that you receive a regular supply of the Hydration Multiplier without the hassle of reordering each time. It’s an affordable option for people who use the product regularly.
List of Other Products By Liquid IV
According to the company website, Liquid IV offers a huge selection of hydration multiplier products.
Hydration Multiplier Sugar-Free: This sugar-free hydration multiple claims to be suitable for those looking for a zero sugar hydration solution.
Hydration Multiplier+ Immune Support: Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier+ Immune Support is created to boost immunity with hydration.
Hydration Multiplier+ Probiotic Kombucha: This Hydration Multiplier+ Probiotic Kombucha claims to give 2x faster hydration and digestive support.
Energy Multiplier: Liquid IV Energy Multiplier claims to provide an energy boost and 2x faster hydration.
Sleep Multiplier: The Sleep Multiplier is a nighttime drink mix that aims to improve sleep using ingredients like melatonin, L-theanine, and valerian root.
FAQs
Can Liquid I.V. be Consumed Daily?
Liquid I.V. can be consumed daily if you exercise strenuously, engage in hard labor, or find yourself in a humid environment where excessive sweating occurs. In such cases, using Liquid I.V. or another electrolyte supplement may provide benefits. However, it is usually unnecessary for the average individual to incorporate it into their daily routine.
Is Liquid I.V. Safe for Kidney Health?
Liquid I.V. is generally considered safe for the kidneys in the case of an average person. However, individuals with kidney disease should be cautious about their sodium and potassium intake. They should monitor these electrolytes closely and consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
What are the Potential Benefits of Using Liquid I.V.?
Liquid I.V. offers several potential benefits, especially in intense physical activity, strenuous exercise, or excessive sweating. Some potential advantages of using Liquid I.V. include enhanced hydration, replenishment of electrolytes, improved energy levels, and assistance in recovery after intense workouts.
Can Liquid I.V. be Mixed with Other Beverages?
Yes, Liquid I.V. can be mixed with other beverages, such as water, to enhance the taste or tailor it to personal preferences. Mixing one packet of Liquid I.V. with 16 ounces of water is often recommended, but you can adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired flavor and concentration.
Does Liquid I.V. Contain Any Artificial Sweeteners?
No, Liquid I.V. does not contain artificial sweeteners. Instead, it is sweetened using natural ingredients like stevia leaf extract. This allows individuals who prefer to avoid artificial sweeteners to enjoy the taste of Liquid I.V. still while hydrating effectively.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, from my perspective, the Liquid I.V. Hydration Drinks provide convenience and enjoyable flavors. However, the taste and price may not resonate with everyone, making it less suitable as a comprehensive replacement for a balanced diet. It should be seen as a supplemental hydration option rather than a complete nutritional substitute.
Reference:
Cummings, J. H., Edmond, L. M., Magee, E. A. (2004). Dietary carbohydrates and health: do we still need the fibre concept?. Clinical Nutrition Supplements, 1(2), 5-17. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2004.09.003
Gregory, J. F., DeRatt, B. N., Rios-Avila, L., Ralat, M., Stacpoole, P. W. (2016). Vitamin B6 nutritional status and cellular availability of pyridoxal 5′-phosphate govern the function of the transsulfuration pathway’s canonical reactions and hydrogen sulfide production via side reactions. Biochimie, 126, 21-26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biochi.2015.12.020
RV Team
We’re a team of dedicated and diverse health professionals with proven expertise in the fields of full-body wellness, nutrition, beauty, and fitness. We aim to research and write honest, cutting-edge product reviews and informational articles on relevant health topics that help you make wise, informed buying decisions.
