Sweating may keep your body from overheating, but it comes with some drawbacks — mainly fluid and electrolyte loss, especially if your skin seems to be constantly glistening. If you’re looking to replace some of those lost fluids with one of the best electrolyte supplements, you might stumble across LMNT, an electrolyte powder you mix with water.
Just how much sodium (salt) do you lose when you sweat? I.e., do you really need electrolytes? According to a study, active athletes in hot weather can lose up to 7,000 milligrams of sodium a day through sweat! (1) LMNT helps replenish lost sodium and other electrolytes that drip away when you sweat. To bring you the best info on this supp, our experts use our supplement testing methodology to pore over aspects like the formula (I’ll weigh in with my thoughts as an RD!), cost, and our expert first-hand product testing experience. After testing two dozen electrolytes, we think LMNT is a solid sugar-free choice for electrolytes that our testers find very effective at replenishing what they’ve sweated out (while tasting great). Let’s jump into our full LMNTreview.
Editor’s note: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
LMNT Recharge
Main Takeaways
LMNT is an electrolyte powder containing key electrolytes: sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
The sugar-free formulation uses stevia as a sweetener, making it keto- and paleo-friendly.
Glowing customer reviews and an excellent refund policy mean there is no risk to trying LMNT for the first time.
LMNT Specs
LMNT electrolyte drink mix provides the electrolytes sodium chloride (salt), magnesium, and potassium. It’s sugar-free and sweetened with stevia, which our expert testers and the majority of reviewers (thousands of them!) are pleased with in terms of taste. Because of its higher sodium content (1,000 milligrams per serving), LMNT is ideal if you’re sweating a lot, which can cause sodium loss.
Packets of LMNT in a home gym
Because it’s free of sugar and artificial sweeteners, LMNT is suitable for keto diets and paleo diets. It’s also gluten-free and vegan-friendly, so almost anyone can use it. Its one-time purchase price is in the middle of the range for similar products we’ve tested, so it’s not the cheapest nor most expensive option. If you want to lower the price per serving, there are subscribe and save options with free shipping on all orders directly from LMNT.
After trying it out, our product testers are now fans of LMNT and feel like it makes a difference in how their hydration levels. One of BarBend’s expert product testers says: “When I’m taking LMNT, I do feel like I’m better hydrated. That might be because it tastes so good that I’m encouraged to drink more water, to be fair. But yes, it definitely feels like it works.”
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use LMNT
Electrolytes like LMNT can be very beneficial, but they might not be the best fit for everyone. This is especially true given how high LMNT is in sodium compared to other electrolyte replacements out there.
Recommended for:
LMNT is a great option if you sweat a lot, whether from endurance athletic endeavors or simply spending long periods in hot or humid weather. It can also be a good option if you’re losing body fluids for any other reason, some of which are health-related like chronic vomiting or diarrhea.
Not Recommended for:
LMNT is high in sodium, so it’s not recommended if you need to restrict your sodium intake for any reason. If you have health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problems, or liver issues, LMNT might not be a good fit for you. If you’re unsure if you need to limit your sodium intake, reach out to your healthcare provider before using LMNT.
Our Experience Using LMNT Product
Whether you’re an athlete looking to supplement lost electrolytes from sweat or just want to catch up on hydration, you might find yourself looking for an electrolyte powder like LMNT. One of our product testers used it “just because”: “Sometimes, there are those long weekends when you forget to prioritize the basics like hydration. That’s when I first tried LMNT.” Another product tester adds, “I definitely am having my thirst quenched during pregnancy, which is no small task.”
Pouring LMNT into a cup
Not all electrolyte powders or drinks are created equally — some contain added sugar, while others include extras like B vitamins or other essential minerals. We look at some of the most important factors when using LMNT to help you determine whether it’s a good fit for your electrolyte needs and fluid balance.
Ingredients and Formulation
The main electrolytes in LMNT are sodium (sodium chloride), magnesium, and potassium. Considering sodium and chloride are the most abundant electrolytes lost in sweat, it makes sense that sodium (in the form of sodium chloride) is the most abundant electrolyte in LMNT. (2)
The biggest thing to point out about LMNT is the sodium content. Compared to other electrolyte powders and some of the best electrolyte drinks, LMNT is quite high in sodium with 1,000 milligrams per serving (double the amount in similar products.)
The current recommendation per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is to limit sodium to less than 2,300 milligrams per day (and most people eat way more than that thanks to processed foods,) so is 1,000 milligrams too much? Interestingly, some studies suggest that a more optimal range of sodium is between 3,000 to 5,000 milligrams per day to reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes. (3) For those with higher electrolyte needs or greater fluid losses, the higher sodium content of LMNT electrolyte powder may come as a pro, not a con.
Potassium and magnesium are also present in sweat, so I like that LMNT contains these electrolytes in its formulation (60 milligrams of magnesium and 200 milligrams of potassium per packet). Many people don’t get enough magnesium in their diet, which can impact both overall wellness and athletic performance, while getting enough magnesium likely comes with athletic advantages. (4)
LMNT in front of weight plates
LMNT electrolytes are sugar-free and utilize stevia as a sweetener. While some athletes need to take in carbs or sugar to fuel during prolonged exercise (such as long-distance runners), not everyone needs the sugar that comes in electrolyte-infused sports drinks. I like that LMNT is just focused on the electrolytes, and if you need sugar you can add that on your own. It’s also free of artificial ingredients, artificial colors, and fillers.
For overall formulation, I give LMNT a 4.5 out of 5 as a registered dietitian. I like the simple ingredients list that includes the electrolytes most prevalently lost in sweat. I’m a big fan of LMNT being sugar-free (without the use of artificial sweeteners) since not everyone needs sugar along with the electrolytes.
I’m deducting half a point for the higher sodium content per serving, which might be too much for the average person looking for an electrolyte drink, especially if you’re used to the sodium content of some of the best sports drinks, such as the increasingly popular coconut water. However, you can always use less than a full packet of LMNT if needed, and many people welcome the higher sodium content — so this is a bit subjective!
The use of “natural flavor” is a bit ambiguous in terms of ingredient transparency, which also plays a role in the half-point deduction for the formulation. Ideally, the sources of flavors will be clearly labeled.
Taste
One of BarBend’s expert product testers rave about the taste of LMNT flavors, saying:“When I tested out the Mango Chili flavor, it was more savory than it was sweet. At first, you do get that sweetness from the mango, but then the chili heat is what lingers. It’s not too much heat, though — a good amount. A solid 4.5 out of 5.”
Another one of our testers offers their feedback on the flavor of LMNT: “It took me a couple of packets to get into the taste, because it was more salty than what I’m used to drinking. But after the third packet, I’m not going to lie — I started really liking it. It wasn’t overly salty, and it was nice because it’s a great thirst-quencher. I was never not thirsty throughout my pregnancy, so this was great. Plus, it’s got no sugar, which I like.”
With something as salty as LMNT, you need a little bit of sweetness to offset the saltiness, which makes it more palatable and enjoyable to use. LMNT is sugar-free, but it has a sweet flavor thanks to stevia, a natural sugar alternative. Our tester sums up their opinion of the stevia taste in LMNT: “Give me a 30-day supply any time. I love the flavor so much. Doesn’t taste artificial at all, and it’s super refreshing.”
Solubility
LMNT’s flavor was well-received by our product testers, but how does it fare in terms of solubility? After all, there’s nothing worse than having gritty, crunchy salt at the bottom of your water bottle!
Never fear — LMNT knocks it out of the park for its solubility. Our expert product testers gives LMNT a perfect score. One of them explains: “This dissolves perfectly, just like you’d want it to. A definite 5 out of 5.”
Price Per Serving
LMNT is priced at $1.50 per serving, which is single-stick packet. This is middle-of-the-road compared to some of the similar products we’ve tested and reviewed (check the comparison table below.)
LMNT next to a phone
If you’re using more than a couple of packets of LMNT per day, that adds up quickly and can get to be pretty expensive. If you only use LMNT during strenuous exercise or certain conditions, then it’ll likely be worth it given the convenience of the electrolytes without added sugars.
[Related: How to Make a Homemade Electrolyte Drink]
Third-Party Testing
LMNT isn’t third-party tested, and they explain why on their website, saying, “…our tasty electrolyte drink mix is considered a beverage, not a supplement. That’s why LMNT has a nutrition facts panel rather than a supplement panel. It’s not eligible for the official blue [third-party tested] circle.”
It’s worth noting that some of the similar products we compare LMNT against (like Transparent Labs) considers their product a supplement, not a drink — and supplements are eligible for being NSF third-party tested.
What to Consider Before Buying LMNT Product
Our team tested over 20 different electrolyte products along with LMNT, so there are plenty of options out there for you to consider. Which electrolyte is best for you depends on unique factors like your health history, activity level, and the type of climate you’re in.
Sodium content: LMNT is higher in sodium compared to similar products, which might be too high for some people.
Sugar content: Unlike some electrolyte supplements, LMNT is sugar-free.
Sweeteners used: Regular sugar and stevia are common sweeteners in some of the electrollyte supplements — LMNT uses stevia.
Other electrolytes: In addition to sodium, LMNT contains the electrolytes magnesium and potassium.
LMNT Product Vs. Competitors
LMNT isn’t the only product vying to earn its spot as your favorite electrolyte powder. It’s hard to ascertain how much bang for your buck you’re getting without comparing LMNT to similar products, which is why we do a side-by-side comparison with similar top-rated products.
LMNT, Liquid I.V., Transparent Labs HYDRATE, and BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die are all electrolyte powders meant to promote hydration and electrolyte balance, which can be disrupted through increased sweating and overall fluid loss. The main differences between these products are the sodium content, sugar content, flavor options, and price. (Some products contain added vitamins like B vitamins as well, but the main stats to compare are the electrolytes and sugar content.)
BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die contains sugar (7 grams per stick pack) from coconut water powder, and Liquid I.V. contains 12 to 13 grams of carbs (primarily from sugar) per serving. (Liquid I.V. makes a sugar-free version, but that’s not the kind we’re including in our comparison.) LMNT and Transparent Labs HYDRATE are sugar-free and sweetened with stevia. LMNT is the highest in sodium with 1,000 milligrams per serving, while the other products contain 490 to 670 milligrams of sodium per serving.
LMNT, Liquid I.V., and BUBS Naturals Hydrate or Die are very similar in price at $1.50 to $1.89 per serving, while Transparent Labs HYDRATE is notably cheaper at $0.75 per serving. One of the likely reasons for the price discrepancy is that Transparent Labs HYDRATE comes in a canister with a scoop, while the other products are in single-serving packets, which adds both convenience and higher cost from the additional packaging.
Places to Buy LMNT Product
LMNT website
Amazon
Thrive Market
The Feed
Local nutrition stores
Customer Experience and Brand Reputation
If purchasing directly from LMNT, you can enjoy free shipping on all orders with no minimum amount. In addition to enjoying free shipping, LMNT has a “no questions asked” refund policy, and you don’t even have to send the product back if you’re requesting a refund.
LMNT is highly rated based on customer reviews, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on nearly 32,000 reviews on their website. On Amazon, LMNT’s variety pack has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from over 18,000 reviews.
Like LMNT says, “We get it. Salty isn’t for everyone.” Given LMNT’s excellent refund policy and glowing customer reviews, there’s no risk in trying it out for the first time!
Our Final Verdict on LMNT
LMNT is a highly rated sugar-free electrolyte powder with simple, straight-to-the-point ingredients. It’s priced competitively and comes in convenient single-use packets. Our product testers are big fans of the taste and solubility of LMNT, and there are several choices to find your favorite flavor. If you’re not a fan after you try it for the first time, LMNT has an unbeatable refund policy — and one of our testers took a couple tries to start really enjoying it, too.
Of all our electrolyte reviews, we’ve know that LMNT is higher in sodium compared — that’s one of the biggest things to consider when deciding if it’s right for you. If you don’t need the full amount of sodium, you can always use half of a packet — but if you’re losing a lot of sweat through exercise or time spent in hot climates, then it could be a great match.
Bottom line: as a dietitian who is currently going for hours-long training runs for an upcoming marathon, I know LMNT is a great option to replace the salt tablets I normally carry.
LMNT FAQs
Is LMNT healthy?
LMNT is high in sodium, an electrolyte that can become depleted from excessive sweating or other means of fluid loss. While LMNT might be too high in sodium for some people, it can be a beneficial tool if you need to replace lost electrolytes, helping to prevent dehydration.
For athletes sweating a lot or those spending prolonged time in hot, humid conditions, LMNT can be a good choice to offset potentially dangerous dehydration.
Is LMNT gluten-free?
LMNT is gluten-free. It’s also keto-friendly and suitable for special diets like vegan and paleo.
Is it OK to drink LMNT every day?
LMNT is safe to drink every day, but you might not need it daily. LMNT is most beneficial when you’re experiencing fluid loss, such as from sweating or other conditions that cause you to lose body fluids.
Is LMNT too much sodium?
LMNT is higher in sodium than other electrolyte products. If you’re not experiencing fluid loss through sweat or other means, LMNT might be too high in sodium for your needs, especially if you already eat a higher-sodium diet. (For context, one packet of LMNT provides 1,000 milligrams of sodium, which is 43% of the recommended daily amount per the FDA.)
References
Shirreffs, S.M., Sawka, M.N. (2011). Fluid and electrolyte needs for training, competition, and recovery. Journal of sports sciences. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22150427/
Sherman, T. Siekaniec, C., Johnson, S. (n.d.) What’s in Your Sweat? American Sports and Performance Dietitians Association. https://www.sportsrd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Whats-In-Your-Sweat.pdf
Mente, A., O’Donnell, M., Yusuf, S. (2021) Sodium intake and health: What should we recommend based on the current evidence? Nutrients. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34579105/
Zhang, Y., Xun, P., Wang, R., Mao, L., & He, K. (2017, August 28). Can magnesium enhance exercise performance? Nutrients. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5622706/
The post LMNT Review (2024): Insights From an RD appeared first on BarBend.