Hydration Add-Ins That Actually Help (And Which Ones Are Pointless)
because not everything needs to be pastel and $36 to work
Why Hydration Add-Ins Are Even a Thing
When you sweat, drink a ton of coffee, or forget water exists for six hours, you lose electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These help your cells function and allow your body to hold onto water instead of just peeing it out five minutes later.
Plain water is fine most of the time. But sometimes your body needs backup.
Add-Ins That Actually Work
1. Electrolyte Powders Without The Junk
Look for powders that include sodium, potassium, and magnesium — and skip the neon sugar bombs with mystery sweeteners.
Best for: after workouts, hangovers, travel days, or when your caffeine tolerance has become a problem.
Try: LMNT, Liquid I.V. (diluted), or Ultima (if you prefer stevia instead of sugar).
2. Trace Mineral Drops
These add back essential minerals, especially if your water is filtered or distilled. Almost no taste if you only use a few drops.
Best for: people who drink filtered water all day but want to replace lost trace minerals.
3. Coconut Water (Unsweetened)
It’s naturally high in potassium and a little sodium. Helpful after sweating or blended into smoothies.
Best for: light hydration or as a smoothie base.
Skip it if: you’re watching sugar or trying to replace all your water with it.
4. Chia Seeds
Soaked chia seeds absorb water and slow digestion, which can help your body stay hydrated longer.
Best for: lemon water, iced tea, or smoothies.
Just don’t skip soaking them unless you enjoy surprise choking hazards.
5. Magnesium Powders (Like Calm)
If you’re twitchy, sore, or sleeping like garbage, magnesium might help. Just don’t go overboard unless you want your hydration routine to turn into a cleanse.
Best for: nighttime hydration or general magnesium support.
Overrated or Pointless Add-Ins
Collagen Powders
They’re great for skin and joints — just not hydration. Put them in your coffee, not your water bottle.
Pretty Water Drops With No Electrolytes
If it’s just flavor and zero function, it’s basically LaCroix’s cousin. Don’t expect it to do more than taste cute.
“Detox” Water Mixes
If the label says it flushes toxins but doesn’t say which ones, it’s just Kool-Aid with a fake wellness degree. Your kidneys already handle that for free.
Final Takeaway
You don’t need a shelf full of pastel packets to stay hydrated. A few smart add-ins — like real electrolytes, mineral drops, or soaked chia — can actually make a difference. Whether it’s recovery after a workout or just trying not to dry out on your third iced coffee, hydration should work for you. Not the other way around.
