Whether you're a hardcore athlete, live in a hot climate, tend to sweat a lot, or just forget to drink water, we can all fall behind on hydration. Roughly 75% of Americans don’t meet the recommended daily water intake.
That said, hydration isn’t just about drinking water. Proper hydration requires maintaining the right balance of both fluids and electrolytes, minerals like sodium and potassium that are lost through sweat and are essential for your body to function at its best.
That’s where electrolyte powders come in, helping to replenish key minerals and support optimal hydration. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which ones are worth the price tag? In this review, I’ll take a closer look at one of the most talked-about products, Mortal Hydration, and share why I’d suggest my top pick instead.
- Is Mortal Hydration Worth a Try?
- What Is Mortal?
- Purported Health Benefits
- Ingredient Breakdown
- Quality and Safety
- Cost Analysis
- Taste Review
- Why I Choose Live it Up Vital Minerals
Mortal Hydration Quick Facts
-
Key ingredients:
- 4 primary electrolytes: potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium
- Sweeteners: evaporated cane syrup, dextrose, stevia, and rebaudioside A
- Natural flavors, citric acid
-
Flavors: Six options
- Margarita
- Aloha
- Grapefruit
- Berry
- Mango
- Watermelon
- Manufacturer health claims: Hydration, muscle recovery, and athletic performance support
- Potential side effects: Digestion and gut health discomfort (due to the inclusion of stevia)
-
Nutrition facts: 1 scoop
- Calories: 40
- Total carbohydrates: 10 g
- Added sugars: 8 g
-
Cost:
- 25-pack: $29.95 ($1.20 per serving)
- Subscribe and save 5%: $28.45 ($1.14 per serving)
- Single-serving: $1.25
- Shipping: Free shipping on all orders
Bottom Line: Is Mortal Hydration Worth a Try?
Mortal Hydration stands out for its adjustable sodium levels, NSF Certified for Sport testing, and bold, fun flavors, features that make it especially appealing for serious athletes (like those who sweat heavily during workouts). While its inclusion of carbs and added sugar can be beneficial for longer training sessions, it may not suit those seeking a no-sugar or low-sugar formula.
Mortal’s regular mix is likely to help with daily hydration, but I wouldn’t choose it as the best electrolyte powder. In comparison, Live it Up Vital Minerals offers more potassium and calcium, includes vitamin C, has no added sugar, and costs less than Mortal Hydration.
What Is Mortal?
Known as the Official Sports Beverage of the 2024 North American Ironman series, Mortal is a sports hydration brand that offers adjustable sodium levels. Consumers can choose between the Salty and Regular flavors, each designed to meet different hydration and training needs (we are reviewing the regular Mortal flavors in this review).
The original Mortal Hydration packs contain 450 milligrams of sodium, while the “Salty” versions contain 920 milligrams. Newer flavors fall slightly lower at 900 milligrams. This flexibility allows users to tailor their electrolyte intake based on activity level and sweat rate. The regular version is formulated for everyday hydration, offering a 3:1 sodium-to-potassium ratio.
Consumers should note that Mortal Hydration contains 10 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of added sugar. While many electrolyte powders have shifted away from carbohydrate-based formulas, Mortal still includes them. This is an important consideration for athletes who closely monitor their macros or who already use separate carbohydrate sources for refueling.
Mortal Hydration Pros
- Offers two electrolyte levels to meet different hydration needs
- The regular version has a 3:1 sodium-to-potassium ratio
- NSF-Certified for Sport and GMP-certified
- Available in a variety of dynamic flavors and sample packs
- Positive reviews on taste and dissolubility
- Free shipping
Mortal Hydration Cons
- Contains 10g of carbs and 8g of added sugar
- Salty formula is very high in sodium with an imbalanced 6:1 ratio
- Higher cost than many competitors, even with a subscription
- No vitamin C for extra heat support
- Contains small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and calcium
Mortal Hydration’s Purported Benefits
Mortal Hydration makes several claims about how its formula supports hydration, muscle recovery, and overall performance. Here’s how the science behind its ingredients stacks up to those claims.
#1: Optimize Hydration
Like most other electrolyte hydration drinks, Mortal’s main purpose is to help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweat. Mortal Hydration’s regular formula provides 450 milligrams of sodium per serving and 150 milligrams of potassium, which falls within the range typically recommended for moderate physical activity. Sodium is the primary electrolyte responsible for fluid balance and water retention, while potassium works in tandem with sodium to help regulate hydration at the cellular level.
The inclusion of small amounts of magnesium and calcium further supports electrolyte balance. With its carbohydrates and sugars, Mortal may also aid hydration by supporting faster water absorption during exercise. Overall, the formula is generally well-suited for people looking to maintain hydration during workouts or hot weather. Those who engage in longer or higher-intensity activity, or who naturally sweat more, may benefit from Mortal’s Salty versions, which nearly double the sodium content to better replace what’s lost during endurance training.
#2: Aid Muscle Function and Recovery
Electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium all play roles in muscle contraction and help prevent cramping. Calcium is particularly important because it helps trigger the muscle fibers to contract, while magnesium supports relaxation between contractions.
That said, Mortal Hydration contains minimal amounts of these minerals, with 150 mg of potassium, 20 mg of magnesium, and 20 mg of calcium per serving. These levels contribute modestly to muscle function but are not high enough to provide meaningful recovery support after intense exercise. Athletes seeking more targeted muscle recovery may want to pair Mortal with other nutrition sources that offer higher doses of these electrolytes or additional recovery nutrients.
#3: Support Athletic Performance
Many athletes look for natural energy support from their supplements, and Mortal Hydration’s inclusion of 10 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of added sugar provides a quick energy source that can be beneficial during longer or high-intensity workouts. However, for shorter or lower-intensity activity, the added sugar may be unnecessary.
It’s also worth noting that Mortal doesn’t contain nutrients such as B vitamins or iron, which play roles in natural energy support. As a result, its performance benefits come primarily from hydration and carbohydrate replenishment.
Mortal Hydration Ingredients Breakdown
Mortal Hydration includes a mix of electrolytes, along with other ingredients designed to support hydration and other benefits. Here’s a closer look at its main ingredients and their functions.
- Sodium (450 mg): The primary electrolyte for fluid balance and hydration. Helps replace what’s lost through sweat
- Potassium (150 mg): Works alongside sodium to support hydration and muscle function
- Magnesium (20 mg): Aids in muscle function, energy levels, and immune function
- Calcium (20 mg): Supports muscle contraction
- Cane sugar and dextrose monohydrate: Simple carbs that supply fast energy for exercise, but this adds 8g of sugar per serving.
- Citric acid and sodium citrate: Add tartness and act as pH stabilizers to improve flavor and shelf life. This unique citric acid helps add a sharp, tangy flavor so the powder isn't too overwhelmingly sweet.
Mortal Hydration Quality and Safety
Mortal is based in Boulder, Colorado. Mortal Hydration is NSF Certified for Sport, meaning it doesn’t contain any substances banned by most major athletic organizations, and most athletes can safely use this product. This certification also verifies that the formula contains exactly what the label claims and that its ingredients and production facilities meet rigorous quality standards.
This product is also produced in GMP-certified facilities, meaning it was manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practices—a set of regulations ensuring products are consistently made and controlled to quality standards.
Mortal Hydration Cost Analysis
When it comes to cost, it’s important to look beyond the price tag. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that contribute to Mortal Hydration’s overall value:
- One-time purchase (25 packets): $29.95 ($1.20 per packet)
- Subscribe and save 5%: $28.45 ($1.14 per packet)
- Free shipping
- Refund policy: Mortal offers refunds on unopened items and provides store credit if you’re unsatisfied with your purchase.
Even with a subscription, Mortal’s price falls toward the higher end of the electrolyte powder market.
Mortal Hydration Taste Review
Aside from its adjustable salt levels, one of the primary factors that sets Mortal apart from other electrolyte products is its commitment to a more dynamic flavor. As the company puts it, “Mortal Hydration is here to make sure you don’t die in your next workout, at least not from thirst or flavor boredom.”
Mortal intentionally avoids the “meek, watered-down flavor” common among competitors, offering six bold options:
- Margarita
- Mango
- Berry
- Watermelon
- Grapefruit
- Aloha
Many consumers praise these bold flavors, with one user noting that they are “very tasty and easy to drink without being too salty, sweet, or artificial tasting.” Others describe it as initially slightly sweet with a slightly tart aftertaste.
However, others found the flavor profile “way too strong,” even after diluting the mix with extra water. Some reviewers also mentioned that the stevia left an “artificial” flavor and an unpleasant aftertaste.
On the positive side, one reviewer said that the blend dissolves really well, likely due to the inclusion of anti-caking agents in Mortal’s formula.
Why I Choose Live it Up Vital Minerals
While Mortal Hydration is a worthy electrolyte product in its own right, my go-to electrolyte recommendation is Live it Up Vital Minerals. New to the electrolyte powder scene, this uniquely designed product is designed to hydrate and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Unlike many electrolyte powders, Vital Minerals is not a salt bomb. With a roughly 2:1 sodium-to-potassium ratio derived from coconut water power and sea salt, it’s tailored for daily hydration—not just when you’re dehydrated or really thirsty. The blend also includes calcium and vitamin C for additional benefits, undergoes third-party testing for quality and safety, and is produced in GMP-certified facilities.
Available in Lemon Lime and Pomegranate Mango, Vital Minerals is affordable, delicious, and clean, with no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors. It checks all the boxes when it comes to an electrolyte powder for enjoyable daily refreshment.
Mortal Hydration Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions about Mortal Hydration.
What is Mortal Hydration?
Mortal Hydration is an electrolyte drink mix designed to replace fluids and minerals lost through sweat. Known as the Official Sports Beverage of the 2024 North American Ironman events, it offers adjustable sodium levels to meet different hydration needs and six bold and fun flavors. That said, it does include 10 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of added sugar, which may be undesirable for some.
Who owns Mortal Hydration?
Mortal was founded by Becca Schepps, a long-time activity lover and former crew athlete at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. When Scheeps was diagnosed as Type 1 diabetic, her life turned upside down, but it also led to Mortal’s first product, Mortal Kombucha. Since then, the brand has also gone on to launch its hydration products.
Do hydration powders actually work?
Yes, when used properly, hydration powders can be very effective. They replenish electrolytes like sodium and potassium, which help regulate fluid balance and muscle function during physical activity. However, the effectiveness depends on the product’s formula and your unique needs. Some powders include sugar alcohol or higher sodium levels that may not be necessary for lighter exercise, and most people can get all the electrolytes they need from a healthy diet.
What’s the healthiest hydration powder?
From First Endurance EFS to Liquid I.V., there are so many electrolyte powders on the market. That said, my top pick is Live it Up’s Vital Minerals, a clean, third-party-tested electrolyte powder that supports hydration without added sugar, caffeine, or artificial ingredients. With a balanced 2:1 sodium-to-potassium ratio, Vital Minerals is designed for daily use to help you stay refreshed and revitalized, whether you’re training or simply staying active.
Should you drink electrolytes every day?
You don’t need to drink electrolytes daily unless you’re sweating heavily, exercising intensely, or recovering from illness. For most people, a balanced diet provides sufficient electrolytes. However, if you live in a hot climate or engage in frequent activity, daily use can help maintain proper hydration and combat muscle cramps or fatigue. Some coaches may encourage athletes to use electrolytes daily to stay hydrated. On the other hand, some products, like Vital Minerals, are designed for daily hydration and are safe to use every day, even for the average American.
References
- https://thefeed.com/products/mortal-hydration?variant=41360276717631
- https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/php/data-research/fast-facts-water-consumption.html
- https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-Does-Mild-Dehydration-Affect-the-Body.aspx
- https://www.cdc.gov/salt/sodium-potassium-health/index.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/21790-electrolytes
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4315934/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507250/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8116550/
- https://www.cdc.gov/salt/sodium-potassium-health/index.html
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-does-potassium-do
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-can-magnesium-do-for-you-and-how-much-do-you-need
- https://www.healthline.com/health/calcium#takeaway
Leave a comment