If you’ve ever finished a tough workout drenched in sweat or struggled with fatigue during a long run, you already know the importance of staying hydrated. Water alone doesn’t always cut it — especially when your body loses key minerals through sweat. That’s where electrolyte supplements like LMNT and ReLyte come in.
Both are popular choices among athletes, keto followers, and anyone looking to combat dehydration. But despite their shared goal — restoring essential minerals — they differ in formulation, taste, and purpose. Choosing between them can be confusing, especially if you’re unsure which one suits your needs best.
In this post, we’ll break down LMNT vs ReLyte side-by-side, covering their ingredients, taste, cost, and ideal users to help you decide which electrolyte drink is right for you.
What Are Electrolytes?
Electrolytes are charged minerals that regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. The key players include:
- Sodium — The most abundant electrolyte in sweat. It helps maintain fluid balance and supports muscle contractions. Too little sodium can lead to muscle cramps, dizziness, or even hyponatremia (low blood sodium).
- Potassium — Works alongside sodium to regulate muscle and nerve signals. It also helps maintain healthy blood pressure and supports heart function.
- Magnesium — Plays a role in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including energy production, muscle recovery, and electrolyte balance.
Other electrolytes like calcium and chloride are also important, but sodium, potassium, and magnesium are the primary focus in most hydration products.
Do You Really Need Electrolyte Supplements?
For most people, regular meals and water provide enough electrolytes. However, supplements can be beneficial when you experience significant fluid loss or need faster recovery.
You may benefit from an electrolyte drink if you:
- Exercise intensely for more than an hour (especially in hot, humid weather)
- Follow a low-carb or keto diet, which can increase sodium loss
- Experience illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or fever
- Work in hot environments or sweat heavily
If you’re sedentary or only doing light activity, water and a balanced diet are usually enough.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Heart Association (AHA), adults should aim for less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. Overdoing high-sodium supplements like LMNT can be risky for people with high blood pressure or kidney issues, so always consult your healthcare provider before daily use.
LMNT vs ReLyte: Ingredient Comparison
Both LMNT and ReLyte are sugar-free electrolyte mixes, but their formulas differ in balance and purpose. LMNT emphasizes high sodium content for low-carb athletes, while ReLyte aims for a more balanced, “whole-body” hydration approach.
Comparison Table
| Nutrient (per serving) | LMNT | ReLyte |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium | 1,000 mg | 810 mg |
| Potassium | 200 mg | 400 mg |
| Magnesium | 60 mg | 50 mg |
| Calcium | — | 60 mg |
| Sugar | 0 g | 0 g |
| Calories | 0 | 0 |
| Sweeteners | Stevia | Stevia + Monk Fruit |
| Added Vitamins | None | Trace minerals (chloride, calcium, zinc) |
| Diet-Friendly | Keto, Paleo, Sugar-Free | Keto, Vegan, Sugar-Free |
LMNT Formula
LMNT is designed for people who lose a lot of sodium through sweat or those on a keto/carnivore diet. Each stick delivers a hefty 1,000 mg of sodium, which helps prevent “keto flu” symptoms like fatigue or headaches. It’s completely free of sugar, artificial ingredients, or fillers.
ReLyte Formula
ReLyte, made by Redmond Real Salt, takes a more holistic approach. It uses unrefined sea salt that naturally contains trace minerals. With 810 mg of sodium, it’s still strong enough for athletes but more moderate for everyday users. It also provides higher potassium (400 mg) and a small amount of calcium, promoting a better mineral balance for daily hydration.
Taste & User Experience
Taste is a big deal when it comes to electrolyte supplements — after all, if it tastes off, you’re less likely to drink it regularly.
LMNT Taste
LMNT has a bold, salty flavor that some users love and others find overpowering. Popular flavors like Citrus Salt, Watermelon Salt, and Raspberry Salt blend sweetness from stevia with a strong mineral punch. Many endurance athletes prefer it during or after heavy workouts, when that salty kick actually feels refreshing.
ReLyte Taste
ReLyte’s taste is milder and smoother, thanks to monk fruit’s natural sweetness. It’s less salty than LMNT, making it easier for casual drinkers to enjoy daily. Flavors like Mixed Berry, Lemon Lime, and Pina Colada are generally well-reviewed for being balanced and pleasant without artificial aftertaste.
Cost Comparison
Pricing can vary by retailer and flavor, but here’s an overview (as of 2025):
| Brand | Package Size | Price Range | Approx. Cost per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| LMNT | 30-stick pack | $45 | $1.50/serving |
| ReLyte | 30-stick pack or 45-serving jar | $37–$40 | $0.85–$1.20/serving |
While LMNT is premium-priced, it’s favored by high-performance athletes who need more sodium per serving. ReLyte offers slightly better value for those who want balance and affordability.
Which One Is Best for Who?
Both are excellent products — it just depends on your goals and lifestyle.
| User Type | Best Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Keto or Low-Carb Dieters | LMNT | Higher sodium helps replenish what’s lost due to carb restriction. |
| Endurance Athletes (runners, cyclists) | LMNT or ReLyte (depending on taste) | Both work well; LMNT’s sodium supports long, sweaty sessions. |
| Everyday Users / Moderate Exercisers | ReLyte | More balanced minerals and smoother taste. |
| People Sensitive to Salt | ReLyte | Lower sodium makes it gentler for daily use. |
| Budget-Conscious Buyers | ReLyte | Lower cost per serving with similar benefits. |
Conclusion & Takeaway
Both LMNT and ReLyte are top-tier electrolyte supplements, but they serve slightly different audiences.
- Choose LMNT if you’re on a keto or high-intensity training plan, or if you crave a saltier, performance-driven mix.
- Choose ReLyte if you prefer a balanced mineral blend, smoother flavor, and a lower price point.
Whichever you pick, remember that electrolyte supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and adequate hydration. If you have medical conditions like hypertension or kidney disease, talk to a healthcare professional before using high-sodium products daily.
FAQ: LMNT vs ReLyte
1. Is it safe to drink LMNT or ReLyte every day?
Yes, but only if your overall sodium intake stays within healthy limits. Most active adults can safely use one serving per day, especially if they sweat heavily. If you’re not exercising, use them occasionally rather than daily.
2. Which is better for people with high blood pressure?
ReLyte is the safer option since it contains less sodium. Always check with your doctor before starting any electrolyte supplement.
3. Do either contain caffeine?
No. Both LMNT and ReLyte are caffeine-free, making them suitable for hydration any time of day.
4. Can they be mixed with other supplements?
Yes. You can mix them with pre-workout or recovery drinks, but avoid combining with other high-sodium products.
5. Are LMNT and ReLyte good for fasting?
Yes — both are fasting-friendly. They contain no calories or sugar, making them popular choices for intermittent fasting and keto regimens.
Disclosure
This article may contain affiliate links. That means if you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based solely on product quality, transparency, and real-world performance.
Join the Conversation
Have you tried LMNT or ReLyte? Which one worked better for your hydration needs? Share your experience or questions in the comments below — your insights could help other readers make the right choice!