So the big question is whether or not hydration multipliers work. These powders use a science known as Cellular Transport Technology (CTT). The hydration multiplier maximizes water absorption by using the joint transport of sodium and glucose through the stomach while carrying water away. The Liquid IV FAQ page recommends one serving per day.
While there probably won't be any harm in consuming more than one serving in a short period of time, we don't recommend doing so because consuming significant amounts of added sugar can be harmful to your health. Liquid IV is based on ORS, so it has been shown to be effective in treating clinical dehydration and, although it contains added sugar, it does not contain highly questionable additives, such as artificial colors and artificial sweeteners. Other people who could benefit from the occasional use of hydration multipliers are those who have been outdoors for an extended period of time, especially if they are in a humid climate. Also called “electrolyte powders”, hydration multipliers are powders (generally flavored) that can be added to water to increase its ability to replace fluids.
Excessive alcohol consumption definitely affects the electrolyte balance, so a hydration multiplier can alleviate a hangover. Of course, if any hydration multiplier causes serious side effects, such as nausea or diarrhea, stop using it immediately and try another brand or dispense with them altogether. Liquid IV is a powdered electrolyte company that makes the strange claim that its products multiply hydration. Since athletes burn water at such an intense rate, they're ideal for testing hydration multipliers.
But if hydration multipliers are essentially electrolyte drinks, you might be wondering what makes them more effective than sports drinks. Many consumers use Pedialyte to treat dehydration and are often curious to know if Pedialyte or Liquid IV are a more effective and healthier option. As shown above, Liquid IV states that its products can provide faster hydration than water alone and that a bar can provide 2 to 3 times more hydration than water alone. People who are not elite athletes, but who perform intense training routines, can also consume a hydration multiplier on occasions when training is especially sweaty.
Unlike their predecessors (traditional sports drinks like Gatorade), hydration multipliers are generally small packets filled with a powder that is then added to water. But are Liquid IV's health claims backed by legitimate scientific research? Do regular consumers need hydration multipliers? Does Liquid IV contain any questionable additive ingredients? And how do real users rate its taste and effects? People who should avoid hydration multipliers include diabetics because there is a significant amount of sugar in each package, according to TN Health.
