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Whether or not you're an athlete or avid exerciser, adding hydration packets to your water can be a good idea. When you sweat, you lose water and electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, potassium, and others—all of which are essential to optimal hydration and body functioning.
"Hydration packets are envelopes that contain ingredients that help provide additional electrolytes and glucose to ultimately help people support their hydration status," said Lauren Manaker, registered dietician. "They can contain a combo of ingredients that provide nutrients like glucose, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and calcium."
When it comes to choosing the best hydration packet, Manaker recommends identifying your own specific needs. For example, in some situations, you may want more glucose, while others might call for more sodium. "Typically, a balance of glucose, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus can offer some benefit for those who are trying to support their cellular hydration," she said.
Some come in the form of powders, while others are tablets that dissolve in water. And most are packaged in single-serving packets, which are easy to carry with you.
Our Top Picks
Our top pick is the go-to for Manaker, who notes that each tablet contains less than 1 gram of added sugar in addition to all of the important electrolytes for hydration.
"Unlike many hydration products, this hydration solution is third-party verified, allowing the consumer to trust that what is on the label is actually in the product," she said. "I also like that this product is free from artificial colors and instead leans on ingredients like beet powder."
Nuun Sport: Electrolyte Drink Tablets, Pack of 4
When I'm looking for a boost of hydration, Nuun tablets are my pick. You can find them at many stores and they come in several flavors and varieties including Sport, Daily, Immunity (great for frequent flyers), Energy, and more.
Nuun Sport contains essential electrolytes, only 1 gram of sugar, and is also available in a powder form that comes in individual packets.
With 4.6 stars and over 1,100 ratings on Amazon, Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier is a fan favorite—especially the bestselling Seaberry flavor. This electrolyte powder also includes five vitamins and uses Cellular Transport Technology for fast hydration and absorption. There are also other varieties that have probiotics, add in immune support, and more.
DripDrop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packets, 16-Pack
While many hydration packets are sweetened with stevia, these are sweetened with sugar, which is part of the brand's patented formula that activates the sodium-glucose cotransport system to deliver fast hydration. With seven grams of added sugar, it still has far less than most sports drinks on the market. The packets also contain zinc and vitamin C.
Ultima Replenisher Hydration Electrolyte Packets, 20-Pack
Sweetened with stevia, the Ultima Replenisher Hydration Electrolyte Packets contain no sugar, calories, or carbohydrates. What they do have are six electrolytes and trace minerals for hydration. With 4.5 stars and over 13,100 ratings on Amazon, this one has many fans.
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