Liquid I.V. and LMNT are the two most popular electrolyte powders, and both work well for GLP-1 users — but they have meaningful differences. This comparison helps you choose the right one for your specific needs.
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Quick comparison
| Feature | Liquid I.V. | LMNT |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium | 500mg | 1000mg |
| Potassium | 370mg | 200mg |
| Magnesium | 0mg | 60mg |
| Sugar | 11g | 0g |
| Calories | 45 | 0 |
| B-vitamins | Yes (B3, B5, B6, B12) | No |
| Flavors | Many (Lemon Lime, Strawberry, Watermelon, etc.) | Many (Citrus, Raspberry, Mango Chili, etc.) |
| Servings per pack | 16-32 | 18-36 |
| Price per serving | $1.20-1.60 | $1.10-1.50 |
Sodium content
This is the biggest difference. LMNT has twice the sodium of Liquid I.V. — and that's the point.
When higher sodium is better (LMNT)
- You have low blood pressure or dizziness on standing
- You sweat heavily (exercise, hot weather)
- You're eating very low-carb or keto
- You have constipation (sodium pulls water into gut)
- You're doing extended fasting
When moderate sodium is fine (Liquid I.V.)
- General daily hydration
- You have normal or high blood pressure
- You're eating moderate carbs
- You want a flavored drink without 1000mg sodium
Ingredients and quality
Liquid I.V.
Uses Cellular Transport Technology (a marketing term for their specific sodium-glucose ratio that improves absorption). Contains some sugar (11g) which aids absorption but adds calories. Includes B-vitamins. Non-GMO. Some flavors contain artificial sweeteners (sucralose) — check labels if you avoid these.
LMNT
Minimalist ingredient list: sodium, potassium, magnesium, citric acid, natural flavor, stevia. Zero sugar, zero calories. No artificial sweeteners, no fillers, no coloring. Designed for keto and fasting communities.
Winner on ingredients: LMNT, for users who want cleanest possible ingredients. Liquid I.V. is fine for most users but has more additives.
Taste comparison
Liquid I.V.
Sweeter due to sugar content. Lemon Lime is the most popular and tastes like mild Gatorade. Strawberry and Watermelon are also well-liked. Some users find it too sweet; others love it.
LMNT
Salty upfront, less sweet (uses stevia). Some users find it too salty at first; most adjust within a few servings. Citrus and Raspberry are the most popular flavors. Mango Chili has a unique kick.
Winner on taste: Subjective. Liquid I.V. is more conventionally "drink-like." LMNT tastes more like mineral water. Try both to see which you prefer.
Price per serving
- Liquid I.V. (16-stick pack): $1.20-1.60 per serving
- LMNT (18-stick pack): $1.40-1.60 per serving
- LMNT (36-stick pack): $1.10-1.30 per serving (better value at larger size)
At retail, they're comparable. LMNT offers better value at the 36-stick pack size. Both are also available via subscription for 5-10% off.
When to use which
Choose Liquid I.V. if:
- You want general daily hydration
- You have normal blood pressure
- You prefer sweeter taste
- You want B-vitamin boost
- You don't mind some sugar (11g per serving)
Choose LMNT if:
- You have low blood pressure or dizziness
- You sweat a lot or exercise intensely
- You're eating keto or low-carb
- You want zero sugar and zero calories
- You want the cleanest ingredient list
- You're fasting
Use both (different situations)
Many GLP-1 users keep both on hand: Liquid I.V. for daily use, LMNT for hot days, post-workout, or when constipation is bad.
If you're new to electrolyte supplementation, start with Liquid I.V. The lower sodium is gentler and the sweeter taste is more palatable. Once you're used to electrolyte drinks, try LMNT to see if you tolerate the higher sodium.
FAQs
Can I take electrolyte powders daily?
Yes, both are safe for daily use. Stick to 1-2 servings per day. If you have high blood pressure or kidney disease, talk to your provider first — both products have significant sodium.
Will electrolytes raise my blood pressure?
In most users, no — kidneys regulate sodium efficiently. But if you have hypertension, monitor your blood pressure when starting electrolyte supplements. LMNT (1000mg sodium) is more likely to affect BP than Liquid I.V. (500mg).
Can I make my own electrolyte drink?
Yes. 1/4 tsp salt + 1/4 tsp "lite salt" (potassium chloride) + splash of lemon juice in 32oz water gives you roughly the same electrolyte profile as Liquid I.V. for pennies per serving. Less convenient but very cost-effective.
Are these safe with GLP-1 medications?
Yes. Both are safe and beneficial for GLP-1 users. They help with the dehydration, low blood pressure, and constipation that commonly affect GLP-1 users.
Related: Complete hydration guide · Constipation guide · Fatigue guide