I love that my clients are getting more interested in hydration and exploring how electrolyte supplements can help support their daily hydration needs. Because I want to be on top of the latest and greatest hydration products as a registered dietitian, I've begun sampling top brands to determine the best options.
This time, it was time to try Magna, an electrolyte that harnesses the power of magnesium. I researched and compared it to my all-time favorite hydration powder, Live it Up Vital Minerals. While Magna has its perks, I don’t think they outweigh those of Vital Minerals.
Below, I'll cover:
- Is Magna Magnesium Powered Electrolytes Worth It?
- What Is Magna?
- Purported Health Benefits
- Ingredient Breakdown
- Quality and Safety
- Cost Analysis
- Taste Review
- Why I Choose Live it Up Vital Minerals
Magna Electrolytes Quick Facts
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Key ingredients:
- Key electrolytes: sodium and potassium
- Three kinds of magnesium: magnesium malate, magnesium L-threonate, magnesium glycinate
- Vitamins D, B6, B12
- Natural flavors, citric acid, and stevia leaf extract
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Flavors: 8 options
- Apple juice
- Iced tea lemonade
- Island punch
- Blood orange
- Lemon lime
- Mint lemonade
- Watermelon lime
- Pure Magna (unflavored)
- Purported benefits: Supports sustained energy, mental clarity, muscle recovery, and faster hydration
- Possible side effects: Magnesium may cause digestive issues for some people
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Nutrition factors: 1 serving = 1 stick
- Calories: 5-15 (depending on flavor)
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g (depending on flavor)
- Total Sugars: 0
- Container size: One box = 28 sticks (sticks)
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Price:
- One-time purchase of 28 servings: $55
- Subscription purchase of 28 servings: $39
- Subscription purchase of 56 servings: $70
- Shipping: Free shipping is available only on orders over $45 or with certain promotions
Bottom Line: Is Magna Magnesium-Powered Electrolytes Worth It?
Magna has the ideal 2:1 ratio of sodium (300mg) to potassium (150mg), offering balanced hydration support with a high-quality formula. However, this powder is more expensive than other brands on the market, includes the filler silica, lacks vitamin C (which can help with heat tolerance), and has some complaints about its aftertaste. I believe Live it up Vital Minerals is the better option over Magna because it provides a budget-friendly, balanced electrolyte powder with vitamin C.
What Is Magna Electrolytes?
After launching the clothing brand Everlane in 2011, Michael Preysman set his sights on a new endeavor: an electrolyte supplement that focuses on magnesium. The result was Magna, an electrolyte powder with three kinds of magnesium to help support hydration, energy levels, athletic recovery, and mental focus. In fact, the brand claims to include three times more magnesium than its competitors.
Magna Electrolytes Pros
- Balanced ratio of sodium to potassium
- Three kinds of magnesium
- No artificial sweeteners or flavors
- Gluten-free, vegan, and keto friendly
- Non-GMO ingredients
- Caffeine free
- No added sugar
- 8 flavor options
Magna Electrolytes Cons
- Expensive compared to similar products on the market
- No vitamin C to support heat tolerance
- Contains silica (filler)
- Multiple sources of magnesium may exceed recommended daily values
- Free shipping is available only on orders over $45
- Some reviews mention a bitter aftertaste
Magna Electrolytes Purported Benefits
Next, let's unpack some of the hydration drink's purported benefits.
#1: May Help Sustain Energy
The Magna electrolyte drink may help sustain energy in a variety of ways. For one, this electrolyte powder contains three kinds of magnesium. While this essential mineral does not directly provide you with energy, it helps convert food into energy and sustains cellular energy.
What I find puzzling is that the formula contains 210 mg of magnesium malate, magnesium L-threonate, and magnesium glycinate, plus an additional 500 mg of Magtein® (magnesium L-threonate), which is listed separately and does not have a listed daily value. I’m not sure why that would be the case, but if you add up the total amounts on Magna’s Supplement Facts Panel, it indicates 710 mg of magnesium per serving, which vastly exceeds the daily recommended dosage for adult men (400-420 mg) and women (310-320mg).
The Magna formula also features B vitamins, including B6 and B12, which are essential for energy production. Like magnesium, these vitamins help convert food into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is referred to as the body's energy currency. Additionally, the blend contains vitamin D, which helps protect the mitochondria from oxidative stress, allowing it to efficiently and effectively operate and produce ATP.
#2: Supports Focus
This supplement also claims to support focus, which is likely due to the presence of magnesium and B vitamins.
Magnesium plays an important role in brain health. For instance, magnesium L-threonate may aid mental clarity and cognitive function. Some studies suggest it may also help with memory and learning abilities.
The blend also contains B vitamins, which may further support brain function. For example, B12 helps nourish your brain, as it acts as a nutrient for the neurons in your brain, while B6 may aid cognitive performance and memory loss.
#3: Helps with Recovery
The Magna electrolyte drink also claims to help your muscles function and recover after athletic performances. The formula contains magnesium glycinate, which studies show may help with muscle soreness and support functionality. It also features potassium, which supports muscle function. If you're low on potassium during intense exercise, you may experience muscle cramps and weakness.
#4: Faster Hydration
When it comes to electrolyte supplements, hydration is key. The brand says its electrolyte blend goes straight into your cells, bypassing your gut and delivering faster and more efficient hydration. Fortunately, this formula does contain essential electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium, that can help rehydrate and maintain fluid balance. It also contains a good 2:1 ratio of sodium to potassium, which I believe helps support proper hydration levels.
Magna Electrolytes Ingredients
While some of the formulas differ based on the flavor, the following are some of the most common ingredients found in these hydration blends:
- Sodium and potassium: The blend includes a balanced ratio of sodium to potassium, helping support hydration levels and maintain fluid balance.
- Magnesium: The formula includes three forms of magnesium, which may aid hydration as well as help sustain energy levels, support focus, and speed up recovery.
- Vitamins: Vitamin D and B vitamins offer additional health benefits, helping with energy production and immunity.
- Stevia leaf extract, citric acid, malic acid, and natural flavors: These additions help enhance the flavor without including added sugar.
- Silica: Also called silicon dioxide, this filler is often used as an anti-caking agent.
- Fruit juice, vegetable juice, spirulina, and turmeric: These ingredients add color to the powder.
Magna Electrolytes Quality and Safety
Magna is NSF certified, meaning the powder is rigorously third-party tested for "purity, potency, and performance," as it conducts microbiological testing on every batch to confirm its free of banned substances and harmful contaminants.
Though I would like to see mention of the company using GMP-certified facilities, as is the case with Live it Up, at least Magna’s website states that they adhere to “all FDA guidelines for dietary supplements including those for development, manufacturing, bottling, and labeling.”
Magna Electrolytes Cost Analysis
Price is another important consideration, so let's take a look at some of the costs associated with Magna:
- $55 ($1.96 per serving) for a one-time purchase for 28 servings
- $39 ($1.40 per serving) for a one-box Magna Starter Kit (28 servings, free water bottle, two complimentary flavor packs) with a subscription
- $70 ($1.25 per serving) for a two-box Magna Starter Kit (56 servings, free water bottle, two complimentary flavor packs) with a subscription
- Free shipping on orders over $45 or with certain promotions
- 60-day money-back guarantee
Even with a subscription, Magna is still on the pricey side when compared to similar brands on the market. For example, you can purchase a 30-day subscription of Live it Up Vital Minerals for just $29.95 or $0.99 per serving and all orders come with free shipping, which is a big price difference if you're on a budget.
Magna Electrolytes Taste Review
Magna Electrolytes come in eight flavors:
- Magna (unflavored)
- Apple juice
- Iced tea lemonade
- Island punch
- Blood orange
- Lemon lime
- Mint lemonade
- Watermelon lime
I must admit, I was surprised at the creative variation of flavors this brand offers. With options like mint lemonade and apple juice, Magna sets itself apart from other brands on the market.
That said, I wasn't a big fan of the flavors, despite there being eight different ones to choose from. I found many of them left an unpleasant aftertaste, which I'm assuming is due to the presence of stevia leaf extract and also high amounts of magnesium. As for the consistency, the powder did leave some clumps that stuck to the sides of my glass.
Because taste is a personal preference, I decided to check out some verified Magna electrolyte reviews to see if other customers shared my opinion. Some agreed with me, while many others genuinely enjoy the brand’s flavors:
Why I Choose Live it Up Vital Minerals
I was pleased to see that Magna electrolytes include a good balance of sodium and potassium and no added sugars. It’s a brand that places a high value on quality testing and flavor variety, but its high price tag, use of the filler silica, and large doses of magnesium are drawbacks for me. I'll continue to recommend Live it Up Vital Minerals to my clients.
I like Live it Up Vital Minerals because it's an affordable option ($0.99 per serving) that offers the balanced ratio of electrolytes for optimal hydration support. I also appreciate that it includes vitamin C, offering various health benefits, such as heat tolerance.
The vegan formula is free of nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten, and it doesn't contain any added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or flavors. It’s also rigorously tested and GMP-certified. Plus, it comes in two tasty flavors (Pomegranate Mango and Lemon Lime), which don't leave a weird aftertaste.
I understand everyone has their own preferences and health goals, but I strongly believe Live it Up Vital Minerals provides a refreshing, quality way to stay hydrated each day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to learn more? Check out our FAQs below.
Are Magna electrolytes good?
Yes, Magna electrolytes are considered a good option for hydration. The formula contains an optimal sodium-to-potassium ratio to support hydration and includes magnesium, vitamin D, and B vitamins to offer additional health benefits, such as sustained energy levels and enhanced focus. However, it's important to be mindful of the high quantity of magnesium in this formula, especially if you’re consuming magnesium through your diet or other supplements.
What are the benefits of Magna?
One of the benefits of Magna is that it includes three kinds of magnesium, which offer a wide range of health benefits, such as supporting hydration, energy levels, and muscle recovery. The formula also includes a good balance of sodium and potassium to help maintain hydration and balanced fluid levels.
Are there any downsides to taking magnesium?
Consuming magnesium can sometimes cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting. Certain forms may also have an odd, metallic aftertaste. It's important to follow the recommended daily dose of magnesium, and talk to your doctor about the right amounts for you.
What is the healthiest electrolyte drink on the market?
While there are a lot of healthy electrolyte powders on the market, Live it Up Vital Minerals is my recommendation. The affordable, non-GMO, vegan hydration powder includes a great balance of electrolytes and vitamin C for additional health benefits. Furthermore, it's a low-calorie option without added sugars, setting it apart from many of the other hydration supplements on the market.
Is magnesium a good electrolyte?
Yes, magnesium is considered a good electrolyte because it supports hydration, but it can also help your body convert food into energy, aid mental focus, and even contribute to your athletic recovery.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice or individualized nutrition counseling. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to supplements or medications. Any product or brand mentions are for general information and don’t guarantee results.
References
- https://newconsumer.com/2024/07/magna-hydration-magnesium-michael-preysman/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/magnesium-benefits
- https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-Consumer/
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-you-take-too-much-magnesium-8572128
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/b-vitamin-benefits
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-022-04246-3#
- https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/childrens-hospital/nutrition/magnesium-foods
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7352515/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20152124/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8962758/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11227245/
- https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/story/potassium-and-your-body
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/nutrition-and-fitness/sports-and-hydration-for-athletes
- https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R31R84PX9U2XNF/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8
- https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/RBBCR7ZKYX7MX/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8
- https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R1HPMUXZ5YN7X7/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8
- https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R9JCWBUWZUEYM/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8
- https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R18GV4N1G3C5CK/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8
- https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R3G7F0EWCSTKHU/ref=cm_cr_getr_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK236216/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-998/magnesium
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