Liquid IV Reviews – Does it Really Work? | Side Effects, & Tutorials

Have you ever been so tired that drinking water is insufficient to replenish your energy?

According to a study published in The Journal of American Medicine, 1 out of 766 individuals suffers from electrolyte imbalance, which can affect an individual’s energy and sleep.

Thankfully, Liquid IV products were formulated, and in this article, you will learn if these rehydrating liquids can fit your health needs.

Liquid IV: Packets for Rapid Water and Nutrient Absorption

What is Liquid IV?

Liquid I.V. is a company founded by Brandin Cohen in the year 2002.

It provides electrolyte drinks, also known as liquid sticks, that artists like Justin Beiber, Kevin Hart, and Kendall Jenner support and invest in.

By the end of 2019, the product line of Liquid IV was recognized by the company Unilever (United States branch), and decided that the products can be distributed globally, especially to emergency living quarters and disaster zones, making it a global brand.

Although the company’s products are not FDA-approved since the FDA does not approve these types of foods and beverages, the facility where the products are manufactured is FDA-compliant.

Indications

In 2020, the NBA bubble contacted the CEO, and players eventually started using these Liquid IV products while we were amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

So, does this mean IV sticks are potential medication during this pandemic? Take a look at what these products are used for:

• Dehydration
• Insomnia
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Vitamin B deficiency
• Fatigue

Take note that these are only some of the uses of these products. In the next sections, its benefits and other advantages will also be discussed.

Product Line

Generally, there are 4 products for the Hydration Multipliers. To introduce, these four include:

• Hydration Multiplier
• Energy Multiplier
• Sleep Multiplier
• Hydration Multiplier plus Immune Support

Each of these products provides different uses, which will also be discussed later.

Contraindications: Who Can’t Use These Rehydrating Liquids

Since Liquid IV is recognized by the company Unilever, Liquid IV products are certainly safe to be used by all. However, there are some cautions for certain groups of people.

Take a look at the information below:

1) Diabetic Patients

Liquid sticks have high sugar content, and diabetic patients may not appreciate this. When too much sugar is consumed, this can worsen the patient’s condition.

According to a study in Pakistan, overindulgence of oral and IV electrolytes fluids, including Liquid sticks, can cause hyperglycemia which can lead to glucose-induced osmotic diuresis.

Eventually, in the same study, this can lead to more imbalanced body fluids and electrolytes. 

2) Patients with High Blood Pressure (HBP)

Aside from the glucose content, Liquid sticks, especially the Hydration Multiplier, also has high sodium content that patients with HBP may not admire.

According to the American Heart Association, there is a positive association between HBP and sodium chloride.

This report stated that dietary supplements and electrolytes could increase a patient’s risk of hypertension without the patient knowing.

3) Patients with Kidney Stone

Patients with kidney stones must also be cautious when taking Liquid sticks. 

As said, these liquid sticks contain high amounts of sodium, and according to a study in Ethiopia, too much consumption of sodium from dietary electrolytes can increase a patient’s chance of acquiring a new kidney stone.

4) Pregnant and Lactating Women

Generally, pregnant and lactating women may enjoy the benefits of Liquid sticks.

Of course, moms tend to be sleep-deprived and may experience fatigue, right?

However, for pregnant and lactating women who wish to consume these Liquid IV products or liquid sticks, it is always recommended to speak with your medical provider beforehand.

The Cons of Liquid Sticks

Moving on, aside from the contraindications, high sugar and sodium content, let us talk about the other downsides of using Liquid sticks. 

1) Side effects

Different mixes of Liquid sticks may cause unwanted adverse effects due to their melatonin and beta-glucan content.

Some of these side effects include the following:

• Nausea
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Too much sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Sore throat

Take note that these side effects can only be experienced when there is overindulgence or when you have a health condition that is contraindicated with the product.

If these side effects become severe, seek medical assistance to avoid other health dangers.

2) Unpalatable taste

Some users of Liquid sticks report that the products have unpalatable or awful taste. To avoid this, it is recommended that the product must be consumed as soon as possible.

Another solution for this unwanted taste is that consumers may make tropical-infused water and mix one Liquid stick powder with this.

Moreover, sparkling soda can also be an option but is not generally advised.

3) Promotes over-ingestion of Melatonin

The Sleep Multiplier contains melatonin; depending on your current health condition, consumption of melatonin must be limited or controlled.

Per serving of this variety can give you around 3 mg of melatonin, and when patients cannot tolerate this amount, this may cause the opposite effect of its intended purpose.

Moreover, as cited in the American Journal of Managed Care, the European Food Safety Authority recommends using no more than 1 mg of melatonin to obtain its sleeping effect.

In the same report, when too much of this dose is consumed, it can alter the sleep latency of a patient.

4) Mixing issues

One disadvantage of Liquid sticks is that the powder tends to separate over time. 

So, if you will only be using regular cups or bottles and you will not consume the drink in one sitting, you will need to stir the mixture repeatedly.

To avoid this inconvenience, you may want to use a water bottle where you can shake your drink easily.

5) Procurement issue

One disadvantage of Liquid IV is that although it offers free shipping, it does not ship outside the United States.

Also, when you subscribe and get a plan and decide to cancel, you must cancel at the beginning of the month, as no refunds will be given after the company charges you from your current month’s bill. 

What People Say About Pure Cane Sugar Mix

Aside from the celebs who support these Liquid sticks, the company has received great reviews from users globally.

With over 300,000,000 servings sold worldwide, let us take a look at what people say about the product line of Liquid IV:

Generally, people buy IV packets because of their ease of use and wide product options. Furthermore, this is followed by the product flavors, shipping, and subscription plan features.

Now, let us discuss these reviews.

The most common user review from IV packets is that it truly can deliver hydration for athletes, people after surgery, and the elderly in a safe way.

Moreover, all users report that the product tastes great, especially the Liquid IV original lemon-lime flavor and passion fruit flavor.

However, it is a great-tasting product, the Liquid IV taste is so strong that doubling up the water for dilution is better, particularly for those who do not like it to be too sweet to taste.

In addition, one user reports that it can be used for hangovers.

Lastly, no side effects were reported, which is a boon for potential buyers with sensitive health conditions.

What We Like About Cellular Transport Technology

Generally, the main use of IV packets is to hydrate you the whole day. However, it is interesting to know that it also offers lots of pros!

In this section, we will discuss the benefits of IV sticks and how they can satisfy you…

1) Boosts energy levels

Caffeine can increase your energy levels but can dehydrate you. Fortunately, the Liquid IV Energy Multiplier and Immune System Support can increase your liveliness without making you feel dehydrated.

Additionally, IV packets do not contain any caffeine. Thus, it is not considered an energy drink. But still, it is a healthier alternative product. 

This energy-boosting effect comes from its Vitamin B, glucose, and matcha content. For the former, this can be backed up by a study published in the Journal of Human Nutrition.

This study reported that consuming vitamin B, either in the form of medication or beverage, can increase energy production.

Furthermore, there is less fatigue and improved cognition when there is enough vitamin B.

For glucose, we get this saying that when kids take super sugary foods, they tend to be more active and hyper.

This goes the same for IV sticks. According to a study in Germany, glucose is one of the foods that can be a source of energy.

Lastly, the matcha content can be backed up by a study in Japan. In this study, it was reported that matcha could modulate energy balance.

This means that you wouldn’t need to worry about being super hyper!

2) Provides quality sleep

People buy Sleep Multiplier because of its anti-insomnia effects due to the compounds melatonin and valerian root extract.

According to a study in the USA, melatonin can improve sleep quality and shorten, reduce, or decrease sleep latency (time for falling asleep).

With regards to the valerian root extract, according to a study in California, it was reported that this substance could improve your quality of sleep without producing any side effects.

Even old or young patients with sleep disturbance, anxiety, and other insomnia-related health conditions may experience sound sleep.

Not only this! 

Usually, when you wake up, you may feel a little dehydrated. But, when using IV sticks, this severe dehydration will never be felt.

Why? Because IV packets will keep your body hydrated while you dream of your favorite vacation!

3) Reduces hangover

Some users report that Liquid IV can prevent and give relief to wine headaches or hangovers. 

This means that IV packets can be considered the “ultimate hangover cure,” as reported by Yahoo! News.

A piece of advice, though: only consume the alcohol you can safely take! Do not overindulge in alcohol, as this can cause hepatotoxicity.

You wouldn’t want to spend much on hospital bills, don’t you?

4) Increase athletic performance

Technically, this increased athletic performance is due to the sugar content of the IV packets. 

Initially, the IV sticks contained low glycemic beet sugar, but later, they changed it into pure cane sugar.

As sugar provides more energy, athletes may also experience increased vitality and endurance.

Also, Liquid IV can help burn calories that are unnecessary for athletes. 

Moreover, as Liquid IV can improve cognition, athletes’ mental health may also positively affect their performance.

5) Promotes healthy digestion

When you are hydrated enough, your digestion is also affected positively. 

According to a study in North Carolina, when you are dehydrated, you might experience gastrointestinal problems such as constipation and digestion issues.

However, with Liquid IV, you can break down food properly, causing your stool to soften.

Additionally, Liquid IV can help you have a regular bowel movement!

6) Supports the immune system

One of the benefits of Liquid IV with Immune Support is that it can boost your immune system because as you consume the mixes, you are helping your body absorb different nutrients.

Imagine, during this pandemic, in just one Liquid IV stick, you help your immune system prevent and manage colds and flu!

7) Helps in managing jet lags

Did you know that one of the causes of jet lag is dehydration?

Thus, if you love traveling, it is about time to add Liquid IV to your baggage!

According to Harvard Health Publishing, severe dehydration can also worsen the negative effects of jet lags, such as daytime fatigue and feeling unwell.

8) Prevents aging

Liquid IV Energy Multiplier is packed with antioxidants; as we all know, antioxidants can prevent aging.

One of its antioxidant ingredients is Guayusa, and a study in Spain can back this up. 

Liquid IV Features and Formulation

Moving on to the features of Liquid IV, we will talk about its other advantages, including its formulation.

Take a look at the list below:

• Made with premium quality active ingredients
• Non-GMO
• Gluten-free
• Soy-free
• Dairy-free
• No artificial flavors and colors
• No preservatives
• Easy to use

One great thing about Liquid IV, aside from being one of the leading sports drinks, is that its mixers contain no saturated fat, trans fat, or cholesterol. Remember, it is gluten-free!

Liquid IV Hydration Multipliers Product Line

When we talk about Liquid IV electrolyte drink mix, we do not simply talk about a single product. Instead, we refer to 4 different hydration mixes or packets.

Moreover, the variety provides a specific glucose, sodium, and potassium ratio.

To understand more, look at the product line of Liquid IV drink mix and how they are unique.

1) Hydration Multiplier

This is the first and most popular formulated Liquid IV, and this electrolyte drink mix uses a unique applied breakthrough science called Cellular Transport Technology.

But how does this variety of Liquid IV work?

Generally, Hydration Multiplier works by providing proper hydration inside the bloodstream faster – the sugar and salt contents are being used to pull in more H2O into the human body.

According to the company, a single packet of Hydration Multiplier is equivalent to three bottles of water!

In terms of its calorie content, per serving (per stick of Hydration Multiplier contains 45 calories, and its main active ingredients are glucose (11 grams), sodium (500 grams), potassium citrate (370 mg), vitamin B, and vitamin C. 

Aside from the lemon-lime flavor, Hydration Multiplier also comes in different flavors, such as:

• Acai berry
• Passion fruit
• Lemon-lime
• Strawberry
• Watermelon
• Guava
• Apple pie

To use the Hydration Multiplier, mix one liquid stick with 16 oz of water (or just the right amount of water, depending on your preference) and drink it as needed.

2) Energy Multiplier

The next mix is the Energy Multiplier, generally used to increase your energy levels. 

In terms of its calorie content, per serving (per stick of Hydration Multiplier contains 40 calories, and its main ingredients are glucose (8 grams), sodium (380 grams), potassium (300 mg), matcha, guayusa, and ginger.

So, if you need a little extra energy for the day, you have to pick up one stick, drink its lemon-like flavor, and do your daily errands.

Like the Hydration Multiplier, this variety uses Cellular Transport Technology, providing energy-boosting effects in no time.

Moreover, this mix also promotes and provides increased cognition and antioxidant properties. Thus, taking it will surely improve your mood!

As said, one of the ingredients in this variety is Guayusa, and according to a study published in the International Journal of Toxicology, this substance may help one lose weight.

Take note that Energy Multiplier provides around 100 mg of caffeine per stick. For this reason, you must only take one or two daily sticks.

To use this, mix one liquid stick in 12 ounces of water or more (just enough water depending on your preference) and drink it once daily, preferably in the morning.

3) Sleep Multiplier

The next mix is the Liquid I.V. Sleep Multiplier. Generally, this mix is used to address insomnia and other sleep disturbances.

According to the company, Sleep Multiplier packets act as a tranquilizer or sleeping aid for those with insomnia and anxiety.

Moreover, just like the Hydration and Energy Multiplier, it uses Cellular Transport Technology and is available in Blueberry Lavender flavor.

Personally speaking, they are safer as they do not contain any chemicals. Instead, they focus on its ingredients, especially melatonin, L-theanine, and valerian powder.

According to a Japanese study in Japan, it works by reducing your sleep latency with regards to the amino acid L-theanine.

With regards to the contents of this sleep product, aside from melatonin, L-theanine, and valerian powder, it provides 30 calories per serving and contains glucose (3.5 grams), sodium (380 grams), potassium (195 mg), vitamin B1 (3 mg), and vitamin B3 (50 mg).

To use this variety, mix one stick with 8 ounces of water or more (depending on your preference and drink it 15 minutes or half-hour before heading to bed.

4) Hydration Multiplier plus Immune Support

The last mix is Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier plus Immune Support, which generally strengthens your immune system.

Technically, this variety provides the same hydration as the plain Hydration Multiplier, but it also focuses on the immune system.

In terms of its calorie content, per serving (per stick of Hydration Multiplier contains 45 calories, and its main ingredients are glucose (11 grams), sodium (500 grams), potassium (370 mg), vitamin C (504 mg), Zinc (10.4 mg), and Wellmune. 

This packet is perfect during this time of the pandemic when colds and flu are common as, according to the company, one packet is equivalent to 5x vitamin C daily recommendation.

Take note that the vitamin C content in this variety is 504 mg, above Recommended Daily Allowance.

The Wellmune ingredient is a proprietary blend, and its actual content is not indicated in the nutrition facts (daily value) of Liquid IV water enhancers.

Additionally, this variety is available in tangerine and citrus flavors.

To take this Liquid IV variety, mix one packet with 16 oz of water (or more, depending on your preference) and drink it as needed.

How to Get the Best Hydration Pattern

This section is based on the company’s guide for consumers who wish to take more than one different packet or those who want to take Liquid IV drink mix correctly and consistently. 

1) Ante Meridiem: Breakfast time

Always make a morning routine whether you are a night person or not. 

A morning routine does not only focus on exercising in the morning but also includes drinking cups of water as soon as you get out of your bed.

Take note that you lose some water while sleeping because you constantly breathe, sweat, and pass stool to your digestive system.

Thus drinking water is the most important thing you must do early in the morning.

However, many people fail to do this. For this reason, drinking Liquid IV, especially the Hydration Multiplier and Energy Multiplier, is advised to be taken in the AM.

2) During the day

As we all know, we need to take 8-10 glasses of water per day, especially when we work with limited break time.

Although that is a benchmark, doing it during a busy day is tough.

For this reason, taking Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier plus Immune Support as you do your daily errands is advised.

3) Post Meridiem: Good night’s sleep

After a long, tiring day, when you get back to bed, always set the same rule: hydrate yourself.

Drink something that can replenish the nutrients you lost during the day you worked hard for your dreams.

If you take non-hydrating fluids, the tendency is that you will have a harder time falling asleep. 

But, if you take Liquid IV Sleep Multiplier, you will not just be able to get quality sleep but also wake up less dehydrated!

What to Watch Out For When Buying Liquid IV Packets

If you are an athlete and wish to add Liquid I.V. products to your daily diet, you must be sure which of the mixes will suit your health needs, and you can do this by checking the nutritional facts and daily value of each pack.

Although all can be used together, it is still a wise choice to only buy what is most needed.

Moreover, although Liquid I.V. products, especially the Energy Multiplier, may cause weight loss, it is not generally used for it.

It may support weight loss but is not intended to drastically alter the user’s weight.

Also, understand that the Liquid IV electrolyte drink mix is not a substitute for water. It can only help you increase your hydration or keep you hydrated, especially when you are physically active.

To understand more about Liquid I.V., take a look at some FAQs from Liquid IV’s official website

You can also try reading these facts about Liquid IV mixes.

Liquid Sticks Safe Use

In terms of Liquid IV safe use, when you buy a Liquid IV drink mix online, make sure to be compliant on how to use the products. Liquid I.V. labels are complete, and instructions are provided in each pack of the mixes.

However, these instructions may change if you have other medical health conditions, especially if you wish to use the Sleep Multiplier packets. 

Thus, always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider or surgical nutritionist beforehand.

Buying Guide

As said, children and adults can enjoy the benefits of Liquid I.V. However, those with medical health conditions must seek advice from their respective healthcare providers before using one.

There are many websites where you can procure Liquid I.V., such as Walmart, Walgreen, and Amazon.

However, it is recommended that potential buyers buy from Liquid IV’s official website. 

From the official website, you can buy wholesale, subscribe to some plans, and enjoy more savings!

If you choose the subscribe and save program of Liquid IV drink mix, you will get 25% off of their packs and bundles, and the sticks will be delivered to you monthly or every other month.

Moreover, in terms of shipping, when you buy from the official site, free shipping will automatically be given to you. Yes, at no cost!

For the Hydration Multiplier Sticks, there is a limited-edition flavor called Concord Grape, which can be exclusively bought on the official website.

Take-Home Advice

Research shows that dietary electrolytes can affect your hydration, energy, and sleep pattern. Fortunately, Liquid I.V. is one of these!

Moreover, Liquid I.V. and its product line are effective and safe hydration products. Aside from being easy to use, they are friendly to all ages!

After a straight Liquid I.V. Review, we have discovered that this oral hydration therapy technique does not just focus on hydration alone but also supports overall health and provides better lives!

Although there are downsides, mainly because of the high added sugar and glucose content, it is still an outstanding product to rehydrate.

Lastly, based on some reviews, the water required when mixing may still make the mixture taste too strong. Thus, mix the Liquid IV packets depending on your technique and preference, but always only with water.

If you are ready to stay hydrated, go over the official site of Liquid IV and choose what is most needed for your health.