Staying hydrated is critical for our health and wellbeing. Proper hydration allows your body to transport nutrients, remove waste, regulate temperature, and perform many other essential functions. While plain water is an excellent choice, sometimes we need more than H2O alone can provide.
This article compares two popular electrolyte supplement brands – LMNT and WaterBoy. We’ll break down the ingredients, cost, pros and cons, and effectiveness of each to determine the better choice. A comparison chart summarizes the key differences. Read on to learn which electrolyte hydration drink best meets your needs.
Comparison Chart
| Category | LMNT | WaterBoy |
| Key Ingredients | Sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium | Sodium, potassium |
| Calorie-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Caffeine-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Flavors | Citrus, raspberry, watermelon, lemon-lime, orange | Unflavored |
| Mixability | Excellent | Fair |
| Cost per Serving | $1.65-$2.00 | $0.13-$0.20 |
| Customizable | No | Yes |
The Pros and Cons of LMNT
LMNT (pronounced “element”) is an electrolyte supplement designed to provide 1,000 mg sodium, 200 mg potassium, and 60 mg magnesium per packet. Other key features:
Pros:
- Includes 4 key electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium)
- Available in 5 pleasant flavors – citrus, raspberry, watermelon, lemon-lime, orange
- Mixes very easily in water with no clumping or chalky texture
- Sugar-free, carb-free, caffeine-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto-friendly
- Non-GMO, no artificial ingredients, vegan
- Single-serve packets for on-the-go use
- Can buy in bulk tubs to reduce cost
Cons:
- More expensive per serving than Waterboy
- Contains 60 mg caffeine (1 packet) which some users may want to avoid
- Only pre-set ratios available – cannot customize mineral amounts
- Contains stevia sweetener which some find has an aftertaste
- Only available for purchase online
Overall, LMNT provides a convenient, tasty way to quickly replenish electrolytes with no prep required. The flavor varieties and easy mixing make it one of the most drinkable electrolyte options. The main downsides are the higher cost and lack of customization options.
The Pros and Cons of WaterBoy
WaterBoy takes a different approach to electrolyte supplementation. It’s an unflavored electrolyte concentrate designed to be mixed into plain water. Pros and cons:
Pros:
- Very affordable even when used daily
- Allows you to fully customize mineral ratios
- Available in tablet or powder forms
- Sugar-free, carb-free, caffeine-free, gluten-free, dairy-free
- Non-GMO, vegan, no artificial ingredients
- Can buy in bulk containers to further reduce cost
- Provides 2 key electrolytes sodium and potassium
Cons:
- Only provides sodium and potassium, lacks magnesium and calcium
- Chalky, unpleasant taste when mixed in water
- Can be difficult to dissolve and mix smoothly
- No flavored or sweetened options
- Can only buy online – not sold in stores
- Requires prep and cleanup rather than grab-and-go packets
Waterboy is the most customizable electrolyte option at the lowest cost per serving. The tradeoffs are the bland taste, textured mix, and lack of magnesium/calcium compared to LMNT. Waterboy is best for athletic performance, while LMNT offers more general hydration.
Detailed Comparison
Now let’s take a deeper look at how LMNT and WaterBoy stack up across a range of factors:
Ingredients
LMNT contains 4 main electrolytes:
- Sodium – 1,000mg
- Potassium – 200mg
- Magnesium – 60mg
- Calcium – 113mg
It also contains stevia leaf extract as a natural sweetener.
WaterBoy has just 2 electrolytes in its unflavored formula:
- Sodium – 610mg (1 tablet)
- Potassium – 300mg (1 tablet)
You can customize the sodium and potassium amounts by adjusting the tablet quantity. Magnesium, calcium, and sweeteners are not included.
For replenishing a wider range of electrolytes, LMNT has the edge. WaterBoy is more limited but allows customization.
Taste and Mixability
LMNT dissolves nearly instantly in water with a pleasant taste. The flavors like citrus and watermelon make it easy to drink.
WaterBoy has a chalky, salty texture that can be difficult to fully dissolve. Since it’s unflavored, you simply taste minerals in water. The bland taste makes WaterBoy harder to drink in quantity.
LMNT is the clear winner for flavor and mixability. WaterBoy’s taste is a tradeoff for the lower cost and customization.
Cost and Value
LMNT costs around $1.65 – $2.00 per packet. One packet contains 1,000mg of sodium, so it provides sufficient electrolytes for most uses.
WaterBoy tablets start at $0.13 per tablet. To match LMNT’s sodium content of 1,000mg requires 2-3 Waterboy tablets for $0.20 – $0.30. The powder form is even more affordable at $0.13 for 1,000mg sodium.
WaterBoy provides more value for the money, especially when bought in bulk. LMNT is more expensive but offers grab-and-go convenience.
Convenience
LMNT comes in pre-portioned packets that can be tossed in a bag or desk drawer and mixed anywhere. No measuring or mixing tools needed.
WaterBoy requires a scoop or scale to measure out the powder form. Tablets need to be pre-counted. You need water and a container to mix it. Overall, it’s less convenient than pre-mixed packets.
LMNT is the convenient electrolyte option while WaterBoy takes more preparation.
Side Effects
Both supplements are safe without common side effects when consumed at recommended dosages. Since they contain only minerals, quality ingredients, and no stimulants, neither produces adverse reactions.
However, exceeding the suggested serving for your needs with either product could potentially cause temporary GI distress until your body adjusts. Moderating your intake prevents adverse effects.
Effectiveness
Hundreds of positive reviews praise both LMNT and WaterBoy for relieving dehydration symptoms like muscle cramps, fatigue, and headaches. Both are highly effective at replenishing electrolyte levels when used as directed.
The main difference is LMNT provides a broader spectrum of minerals while WaterBoy focuses on just sodium and potassium. LMNT is likely more effective for overall hydration due to the addition of magnesium and calcium. But WaterBoy allows fully tailored sodium/potassium amounts.
Also Read: Differences Between Curious Elixirs And Kin Euphorics.
LMNT Vs. Waterboy: Which Should You Choose?
In the battle of LMNT vs. Waterboy, both electrolyte supplements have merits.
LMNT is the best choice for convenience and great taste. It’s an easy way to quickly boost sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. The various flavors make it pleasant to drink pre/post workout or when dehydrated. It’s simple and portable.
WaterBoy wins for affordability and customization. You can dial in your ideal sodium to potassium ratio and save money buying the powder form in bulk. It has a bland taste but provides more value. It’s ideal for athletes monitoring and optimizing electrolyte amounts.
Here are some guidelines for choosing between the two:
- If you dislike stevia aftertaste, pick WaterBoy.
- If you want variety of flavors, choose LMNT.
- If you’re on the keto diet, LMNT is likely the better fit.
- If you need an electrolyte boost post-illness, LMNT’s 4 minerals may work better.
- If you’re an endurance athlete, WaterBoy’s customization can optimize performance.
- If you want caffeine-free electrolytes, WaterBoy is the way to go.
- If you want to buy in bulk for savings, choose WaterBoy powder.
- If you want single-serve packets, LMNT is more convenient.
Choose LMNT for convenience, taste, and broader mineral content. It’s the simplest way to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Choose WaterBoy to customize sodium and potassium ratios. It provides more value, especially when purchased in bulk. Watch this video!
Try samples of both to see which you prefer. Pay attention to how your body feels after drinking each one. Let your individual needs and preferences guide your choice between these two excellent electrolyte supplements. Proper hydration is key to feeling and performing your best!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
LMNT is one of the top electrolyte supplements, but not necessarily better than all competitors. LMNT’s main advantages are its great taste, mixability, and inclusion of magnesium and calcium along with sodium and potassium. The pre-packed servings are convenient. However, some people may prefer other brands based on factors like price, caffeine content, or magnesium forms. There is no definitive “best” electrolyte overall.
Some of the top electrolyte supplement brands besides LMNT include Nuun, Liquid IV, Ultima Replenisher, Skratch Labs, and DripDrop ORS. The “best” brand depends on your personal preferences and needs. Key factors to compare are the mineral forms, additional ingredients, taste, cost, and convenience. It may take some experimentation to find your ideal electrolyte drink.
The best hydration drink also varies based on your activities, sweat rate, diet, and personal tastes. Water is always foundational for good hydration. Beyond water, sports drinks like Gatorade Thirst Quencher can provide an electrolyte boost. But for higher electrolyte needs, supplements like LMNT, Nuun, Ultima, and Liquid IV are better choices. Coconut water is another good option. Lean towards drinks with all 4 main electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium) and no unnecessary sugars.
Most people can safely handle LMNT’s 1,000mg sodium per serving, but those with salt-sensitive conditions like hypertension may want to moderate intake. Consulting your doctor can help determine appropriate sodium levels for your health status. LMNT provides more sodium than other electrolytes but not drastically high amounts with normal use. Pay attention to how you feel after drinking it, and adjust your personal dosage if needed. Moderation is key.
Also Read: Choose Between Trioral And Liquid iv .
Conclusion
Maintaining proper hydration is vital for our health and day-to-day performance. When plain water isn’t enough, electrolyte supplements can replenish the essential minerals we lose through sweat and illness. The choice between LMNT and WaterBoy ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
LMNT provides a convenient way to quickly boost 4 key electrolytes in a tasty, easy-to-drink formula. It’s ideal for sustained hydration throughout the day. WaterBoy allows full customization of sodium and potassium levels at a lower price point. It’s great for athletes and anyone wanting to optimize mineral intake.
Try out samples of both LMNT and WaterBoy yourself. See which you find works best for your body, fitness level, and lifestyle needs. Finding your ideal electrolyte drink takes some personal experimentation – not a one-size-fits all approach. Whichever you choose, staying properly hydrated gives you the energy and focus to take on your day. With smart electrolyte supplementation, you can stay hydrated, healthy, and performing at your peak.