Many people now understand that proper hydration is important not just for exercise, but to feel their best throughout the day. Electrolyte powders are rapidly entering the market to meet that need, but electrolytes alone won't hydrate effectively.
As a dietitian, I tell clients that it's about striking the right balance between these essential minerals. That's the lens through which I evaluate new hydration aids, including the trendy DryWater Complete Hydration powder.
This in-depth review breaks down DryWater's pros and cons, purported benefits, key ingredients, cost, and taste while comparing it to quality alternatives like Live it Up Vital Minerals. I’ll cover:
- How Well Does DryWater Hydrate?
- Is DryWaterWorth a Try?
- What Is DryWater?
- Purported Health Benefits
- Ingredients Breakdown
- Quality and Safety
- Cost Analysis
- Taste Review
- Why I Choose Live it Up Vital Minerals
DryWater Complete Hydration Powder Quick Facts
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Key ingredients:
- Organic coconut water powder and pink sea salt
- Electrolytes: Sodium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, calcium, chloride
- B-complex vitamins and vitamin C
- Natural flavors and fruit juice powders (like organic banana powder)
- Sweeteners: Monk fruit (lo han guo) and stevia leaf extract
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Flavors: 4 options
- Lemon Lime
- Mixed Berry
- Peach Mango
- Raspberry Lemon
- Manufacturer health claims: Hydration, brain health, energy, and immune support
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Nutrition facts: 1 stick = 11 grams
- Calories: 10 (all flavors except Mixed Berry, which has 15)
- Total carbohydrate: 2 grams
- Total sugars: 1 grams
- Container size: 24 or 48 sticks
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Price:
- $54 for 24 sticks (one-time order), $2.25 per serving
- $45.90 for 24 sticks (with a subscription), $1.92 per serving
- Shipping: $5.99 or free for orders of $50+
Formula Snapshot: How Well Does DryWater Hydrate?
Why electrolyte ratios matter: Electrolytes alone are not the key to proper hydration. The balance between these different types of essential minerals is what affects their ability to hydrate effectively. DryWater contains the following electrolytes:
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Potassium: 1000 mg
- Calcium: 40 mg
- Chloride: 225 mg
- Magnesium: 40 mg
- Zinc: 1.5mg
DryWater has a low enough sodium content that it's safe for daily use, but its ratio to potassium is far off. I typically look for a roughly 3:1 or 2:1 ratio of sodium to potassium to strike a proper balance that can move fluid in and out of cells properly. At nearly 1:3, there's too little sodium and far too much potassium present in the DryWater formula. Though it may hydrate faster than water, the blend’s imbalanced potassium may cause extra fluid loss.
Bottom Line: Is DryWater Complete Hydration Powder Worth a Try?
DryWater is a high-cost supplement with an unbalanced electrolyte formula and several nutrients in excessive amounts. If you're looking for an effective, balanced hydration powder that's affordable and safe for daily use, I recommend Live it Up Vital Minerals instead.
What Is DryWater?
DryWater is a California-based company founded by CEO Bryan Appio in 2023. It claims that its hydration powder is the first to be nutritionally complete and made from real fruit, blending 25 electrolytes, essential vitamins, and minerals without caffeine or unnecessary additives.
DryWater advertises its own IsoCell Technology as its key feature, claiming that it increases hydration levels five times more than normal water and accelerates nutrient absorption in cells.
Each 11g stick of DryWater equals one serving and contains the following:
- 10–18 calories
- 380–400 mg of sodium
- 2–4 g of carbs
- 0 g of protein
- 0 g of total sugars
- 70 mg of Vitamin C
DryWater Complete Hydration Pros
- Vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free
- Four flavor options
- Various pack sizes
- No added sugar and low calorie
- Contains B vitamins and vitamin C, which is shown to help with heat tolerance
- Made in USA in NSF-certified and GMP-registered facilities
DryWater Complete Hydration Cons
- Unbalanced formula with a nearly 1:3 sodium to potassium ratio
- Some DryWater reviews report an overly sweet taste
- Very expensive compared to some hydration brands
- Some vitamins exceed 100% DV
DryWater Complete Hydration Purported Benefits
DryWater claims several potential benefits for its users. I examined the formula to determine which claims hold up.
#1: Cellular Hydration
Cellular hydration simply means there’s enough water in your cells for them to function properly. Drinking water and consuming electrolytes and other nutrients are key to keeping cells balanced and staying hydrated. DryWater points to its 1,000 mg dosage of potassium as its key ingredient for replenishing electrolytes, balancing fluid levels, and preventing dehydration.
However, it's important to consider how potassium interacts with the other electrolytes in the formula. Research has shown that the right balance of sodium to potassium is a 2:1 ratio, while the low sodium levels and high potassium levels in DryWater create an imbalanced 1:3 ratio that may not hydrate effectively.
#2: Support Energy Levels
Outside of electrolytes, DryWater’s other ingredients likely offer energy support. Some B vitamins found in DryWater help produce energy in the body and support performance during exercise, including vitamins B12, B3 (also called niacin), and B5 (pantothenic acid).
It’s worth noting that these vitamins are present in amounts higher than the recommended daily value, with 420% DV of vitamin B12, 125% DV of vitamin B3, and 120% DV of vitamin B5. Unless your healthcare provider recommends a higher dosage of these vitamins, you may be at risk of vitamin toxicity depending on your levels and other supplements you take daily.
#3: Promote Immunity
Both vitamin C and zinc are associated with healthy immune function, and DryWater claims that its zinc is specially formulated to provide immune support without altering the taste of its supplements.
It's true that zinc supports proper immune and metabolism function, and adults should get between 8 and 11 mg per day. However, most people who eat a protein-rich diet that includes meat and seafood will get enough zinc without supplementation. People with a zinc deficiency may benefit from the small dosage of zinc in DryWater (1.5mg). Thankfully, DryWater also includes 80% DV of vitamin C, which is known to support immune health.
#4: Support Muscle Function and Recovery
Potassium is crucial for supporting muscle movements, and being low on this electrolyte can result in muscle aches, cramping, weakness, and fatigue.
If you don't already get enough potassium from fruit and vegetables in your diet, implementing DryWater may help you avoid these effects, since it provides 1000mg per serving. However, a balanced diet that includes the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables generally has all the potassium the body needs.
DryWater also contains glycine, which some research suggests may help aid with muscle strength and recovery. However, there have been no rigorous human trials to confirm this.
#5: Supports Brain Health
DryWater touts glycine as an indispensable ingredient for assisting with cognitive performance, sleep quality, and mood enhancement. Glycine has been studied for its role in neurotransmission, but results have been mixed. Some studies indicate that glycine may even have a negative impact on brain function, but more research is needed.
DryWater also contains blueberry fruit powder in its Mixed Berry flavor. Blueberry is a superfruit that shows promise when it comes to combating the effects of aging in the brain. To achieve these effects, studies on blueberries use doses of up to 30 grams of powdered blueberries per day, however.
DryWater Complete Hydration Ingredients
DryWater contains 34 ingredients, far more than many of its competitors, so let's look at what's present.
- Electrolytes: Six essential electrolytes are present, but some are in improper amounts for effective hydration. For example, there’s not enough sodium to balance the amount of potassium included.
- Coconut water powder and pink sea salt: These two ingredients offer natural sources of sodium and potassium.
- Amino acid: Glycine is highlighted as a key ingredient meant to support cognition and mood. The evidence for these potential benefits is mixed, and more research is needed.
- Sweeteners and flavors: DryWater contains no added sugar and no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors. It relies instead on natural flavors. These include fruit juice powders, stevia leaf extract, and monk fruit.
- Vitamins and minerals: DryWater contains added B vitamins, vitamin C, and other minerals that are synthetically added. Some exceed recommended daily values.
- Other ingredients: Some of the extras include L-malic acid, bamboo silica, and citric acid.
DryWater Complete Hydration Quality and Safety
DryWater is made in the USA in manufacturing facilities that are both NSF certified and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) registered. This means that all DryWater products undergo strict testing to ensure that ingredients on the label are listed accurately and can be traced to their origin. This is the standard of quality that I prefer to see on supplement products.
DryWater is a vegan product that doesn't contain sugar, gluten, dairy, GMOs, or any artificial colors, sweeteners, or flavors. It's free from most common allergens but does contain coconuts and bananas.
DryWater Complete Hydration Cost Analysis
Even with bulk packs and subscription savings, DryWater is still more expensive than many electrolyte powders on the market. The cost varies by pack size:
- A one-time purchase of a 24-stick pack costs $54 ($2.25 per serving)
- With a subscription, a 24-stick pack costs $45.90 ($1.92 per serving)
- A one-time purchase of a 48-stick pack costs $98.40 ($2.05 per serving)
- With a subscription, a 48-stick pack costs $83.64 ($1.75 per serving)
If you're interested in sampling multiple flavors, the following bundles are also available for a higher cost per serving:
- A three-stick sample bundle costs $18 ($6 per serving) and includes a free glass shaker bottle
- A 36-stick variety pack costs $81.90 ($2.28 per serving) and includes a free glass shaker bottle
All subscriptions come with a free glass shaker bottle. Even though subscriptions offer savings, it's worth noting that shipping is $5.99 on any order less than $50. This means that unless you order a larger pack size or bundle, you aren't saving as much as the company makes it seem initially.
DryWater has a no-questions return policy and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Subscription holders can skip shipments or cancel their subscription at any time.
DryWater Complete Hydration Taste Review
DryWater has a few flavor options to choose from:
- Lemon Lime flavor
- Peach Mango flavor
- Mixed Berry flavor
- Raspberry Lemon flavor
When I tried DryWater's Mixed Berry flavor, I found it too sweet for me. The texture is thick and clumpy to the point where it requires constant shaking to keep it mixed. DryWater is thankfully not as salty as many hydration powders.
Though some customers mention enjoying the fresh fruity flavor, I thought it came across as fake (even though I know the ingredients are natural). Of course, taste is subjective, and everyone will have a different experience and an opinion on which is the best flavor. I looked at some reviews on DryWater's website to see what other verified buyers thought:
Why I Choose Live it Up Vital Minerals
DryWater has higher-than-recommended concentrations of potassium and other nutrients, and its electrolyte ratios are also unlikely to hydrate properly. For many of my clients,, whether they’re hydrating for exercise or their daily routine, I’d recommend the more balanced formula of Live it Up Vital Minerals.
Live it Up has balanced electrolytes with a nearly 2:1 sodium to potassium ratio for targeted, effective hydration. It’s made with coconut water powder and sea salt, contains vitamin C with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners, and is third-party tested for quality. It also tastes great and mixes well, with a lighter flavor, milder sweetness, and no gritty texture.
Live it Up is also far more affordable than DryWater at nearly half the cost with a subscription or two-thirds the cost without. Plus, a single pouch of Live it Up gives you a full month's supply.
Of course, everyone is different with individual health needs and goals. Ultimately, I'd definitely recommend Live it Up Vital Minerals for a daily wave of refreshment.
DryWater Complete Hydration Frequently Asked Questions
Are hydration packets good for you?
Hydration packets can be good for you, depending on the ingredients and specific electrolyte formulation they contain. Those who are exercising strenuously or for long durations can benefit from replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat. You may also lose electrolytes more quickly when ill.
Electrolyte hydration supplements like Live it Up Vital Minerals help hydrate you faster and more efficiently than water alone when taken as directed.
Can I drink a hydration multiplier every day?
Most electrolyte beverages, sports drinks, and other hydration supplements are not necessary for the average person to drink every day. Many formulas contain too much added sugar, excessive mineral dosages, or unbalanced levels of electrolytes such as sodium and potassium. Moreover, many people can get the electrolytes they need from a balanced diet with foods like watermelon, cucumber, and more. If you live in a hot climate, sweat a lot, or do prolonged exercise, an electrolyte powder may help fill hydration gaps.
How do you tell if you need electrolytes?
Various symptoms can indicate you need electrolytes, depending on which electrolyte you're low on. You may feel sluggish or have muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or dry mouth.See your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about any of these signs.
Do older adults need more electrolytes?
No, older adults don't necessarily need more electrolytes than younger adults. Under normal conditions, a healthy older adult is able to maintain electrolyte balance and can consume electrolytes at the same rate as a younger adult. Aging may result in specific conditions that may cause an electrolyte imbalance, and a healthcare provider may instruct you to consume additional electrolytes under certain circumstances.
What happens when your body is low on sodium?
When your body is low on sodium, it may have trouble maintaining balanced hydration levels. Sodium is a key electrolyte, so many electrolyte beverages contain large amounts of sodium. However, most people who eat a balanced diet get enough sodium and don't require additional sodium in large amounts. Seek out a hydration aid with lower sodium levels if you wish to use it daily for balanced hydration.
References
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