DripDrop Vs Liquid IV

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DripDrop Vs Liquid IV – If you’re looking for an unbiased comparison between Drip drop and Liquid IV, you’ve come to the right place. If you suffer from mild to moderate dehydration, which affects nearly 75% of the U.S population, you might look to sports drinks to replenish the needed electrolytes. However, these beverages don’t always solve the problem. 

This is because they have a high sugar content and lack the necessary electrolyte balance. To restore the lost electrolytes, you’d have to drink a lot of them, which would in turn mean drinking a lot of sugar.

On the other hand, Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS) are important because they have a high concentration of electrolytes. 

Researchers discovered that combining the correct ratios of sugar and salt in water helped to quickly overcome dehydration. In the sodium-glucose cotransport system, sodium and glucose work in conjunction to draw fluids and electrolytes into your bloodstream more quickly.

Oral rehydration solutions were the result. Since then, the World Health Organization has recommended ORS for the treatment of mild to moderate dehydration.

DripDrop vs Liquid IV Compared

Technical Specifications

Taste

The DripDrop formula was developed to improve the taste of ORS without compromising its effectiveness. 

The formula contains clinically proven levels of electrolytes and low glucose content. Regular sports drinks contain high levels of sodium, forcing producers to add excessive amounts of sugar to improve the taste, which makes the drink less effective. 

DripDrop comes in 12 different flavors:

Cold Flavors

  • Berry
  • Lemon
  • Fruit punch
  • Strawberry lemonade
  • Concord grape
  • Orange
  • Watermelon
  • Cherry

Hot Flavors

  • Honey lemon ginger
  • Spiced apple cider
  • Hibiscus
  • Green apple tea
drip drop Logo

Liquid IV also tastes great but it has fewer flavors on offer. Liquid IV offers 7 hydration multiplier flavors

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

Liquid IV doesn’t offer any flavors for hot drinks, but the Energy, Hydration, and Sleep Multipliers are all suitable tea replacements. 

Liquid IV Logo

Effectiveness

DripDrop

DripDrop is the first Oral Rehydration Solution to combine medical rehydration therapy standards with outstanding taste. Their formula surpasses worldwide ORS requirements by adhering to proven salt, sugar, potassium, and other ingredient ratios.

They perfectly blend all of these elements to maximize both taste and efficacy. Because of this winning ratio of ingredients, DripDrop absorbs faster and hydrates better than water or other hydration solutions.

To treat and prevent dehydration, DripDrop provides 3 times the electrolytes and absorbs 3 times more water than water alone. It relies on osmolarity, which is the body’s sodium-water balance. The lower the osmolarity, the better it is at rehydrating you. 

Liquid IV

Liquid IV also follows the World Health Organization’s Oral Rehydration Solution recommendations. Liquid IV broke new ground when it improved the flavor and added more vitamins and nutrients while maintaining the same crucial sodium-to-glucose ratio.

Regular ORS only distributes water throughout the system. Liquid IV transports important nutrients and water into the bloodstream, meaning that you get a healthy dose of other important nutrients on top of their hydration benefits.

Sodium and glucose absorb easily through the small intestine and into the bloodstream. Water, on the other hand, isn’t so fortunate. 

Before entering the bloodstream, water travels through the entire digestive system, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. As a result, it takes longer to reach the bloodstream, and much of it is converted to waste before it even gets there.

When salt and glucose are added, it quickly travels through the small intestine and into the bloodstream.

Liquid IV introduced Cellular Transport Technology (CTT) to take advantage of the glucose-sodium delivery system. This transports nutrients and water into the bloodstream just as rapidly and effectively. 

Liquid IV Ingredients

Pure Sugar Cane

Sugar is a necessary component of CTT. It enhances the absorption of water into the bloodstream when combined with salt in proper ratios. We collated a list of Liquid IV alternatives with less or no sugar.

Dextrose

Dextrose is a kind of glucose, a sugar complex that occurs naturally in our bodies. Of all sugar molecules, it’s the easiest to absorb and helps to absorb other nutrients.

Potassium Citrate

This is yet another crucial aspect of CTT. This electrolyte keeps the balance of the body’s fluids in check and aids in the transport of nutrients into the bloodstream. It also strengthens the bones and reduces muscle cramps.

Dipotassium Phosphate

The ionic substance dipotassium phosphate is used for electrolyte replacement. Dipotassium phosphate is a water-soluble salt that’s commonly used as a source of phosphorus and potassium.

Sodium Citrate

Sodium is one of the most important electrolytes in any ORS. When combined with glucose, it helps you retain the fluid you’re drinking. Furthermore, due to salt’s high bioavailability, your body has the ability to absorb all of the sodium you consume.

→ Does Liquid IV Have Caffeine?

DripDrop Ingredients

Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium is crucial for correct vitamin C and calcium metabolism, as well as controlling the neuromuscular function of the heart. It also transforms blood sugar into usable energy.

Zinc Aspartate

Bodybuilders, fitness fanatics, and athletes often use zinc aspartate as a supplement. These supplements are made up of zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B6, among other constituents. Zinc aspartate increases muscle growth, boosts endurance, speeds up recovery, and increases quality of sleep.

Vitamin C

Tissues require vitamin C for growth, development, and repair. It’s engaged in a variety of body activities, including creating collagen, absorbing iron, immune system function, wound healing, and tooth, bone, and cartilage maintenance.

Potassium 

Potassium helps maintain a healthy balance of fluid in the body. It also prevents blood from clotting and transports vital nutrients to the cells.

Convenience

DripDrop ORS and Liquid IV are both available as compact hydration powder packets that you can take with you wherever you go. You can purchase both supplements online or from major retailers.

Only one size of Liquid IV is available, which we felt was a bit limiting. Each Liquid IV package must be dissolved in 16 ounces of water. 

DripDrop ORS, on the other hand, is available in two dose sizes making it a more versatile solution. Depending on your needs and the size of your glass or water bottle, the packets can be added to 8 or 16 ounces of water.

DripDrop vs Liquid IV – Which one is best?

Now that we’ve done an in-depth comparison of DripDrop and Liquid IV, which one is suitable for you?

DriDrop is ideal for swiftly replacing lost electrolytes. It’s great for hot days because of the additional minerals like vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc which we lose through sweat. These will absorb faster thanks to the increased glucose. 

The variety of flavors are appealing, and it’s an excellent solution for an upset stomach, heat exhaustion, and even hangovers.

Liquid IV is great for workouts. A pack of Liquid IV during exercise can keep you energized for hours. If you’re looking for more than hydration, Liquid IV also includes formulae that boost energy, sleep, and overall wellness.

DripDrop ORS 

The DripDrop formula is one of the most effective and delicious dehydration treatments on the market, and it’s a good alternative to IV therapy for mild to severe dehydration.

The salt content of DripDrop ORS is greater per liter. This is significant because sodium is a key electrolyte in recovery from dehydration. 

The product’s selling point is its osmolarity, a measure of chemical concentration that aids osmosis. The osmolarity of the hydrating fluid should be lower than the osmolarity of your blood for electrolytes to be absorbed.

Because blood has an osmolarity of 285 to 300 Osm/L, choosing a rehydration solution with a lower osmolarity coefficient is critical. 

Drip Drop formula balances all of these important ORS components to maintain low osmolarity, at only 220 Osm/L. This is lower than the WHO-recommended ORS formula (245 Osm/L) and significantly lower than typical sports drinks (300 Osm/L).

Pros 

  • Scientifically developed formula
  • Variety of flavors
  • Good for adults and children
  • Treats diarrhea

Cons 

  • Contains artificial ingredients
  • Expensive

Liquid IV 

Liquid IV is an electrolyte drink combination that uses Cellular Transport Technology to deliver hydration and nutrients directly to your bloodstream. To hydrate cells faster and more efficiently than water, the drink mix contains a combination of sodium, potassium, glucose, and other nutrients.

The formula is GMO-free, artificial flavor-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free. One stick of Hydration Multiplier gives the equivalent hydration as drinking 2-3 bottles of water.

Liquid IV contains 3 times more electrolytes than standard sports beverages in addition to 5 key vitamins. Glucose in Liquid IV activates the “glucose transporter,” a mechanism in the intestinal mucosa. This speeds up the entry of water and electrolytes into the cell. 

One downside is that it contains high levels of sugar, which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to remain health-conscious. Sugar feeds the gut bacteria, damages the gut lining, causes inflammation, and raises the risk of diabetes, cancer, and a variety of other disorders.   

Pros 

  • Effective hydration blend
  • GMO, soy, and gluten-free
  • Vegan
  • Meets WHO standards

Cons

  • Only ships in the USA
  • High sugar content

What To Look For In A Electrolyte Supplement

When choosing an electrolyte supplement like DripDrop or Liquid I.V., it’s important to consider several factors to ensure that the product meets your needs and is safe for consumption. Here are some key aspects to look for in an electrolyte supplement:

Electrolyte Balance

The supplement should contain a balanced mix of essential electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride. These elements help maintain proper hydration, muscle function, and nerve signaling.

Product & Ingredient Quality

Supplements should be free from heavy metals, pesticides, or other harmful contaminants to ensure maximum product safety. So, ensure that your brand of choice undergoes third-party testing to ensure they meet industry and safety standards.

For products made in the USA, always look for the cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice) mark. Otherwise, check if a product has similar or additional certifications.

Sugar Content & Sweetener Options

Aside from adding taste and color, refined or processed sugar usually provides a quick energy boost, but it doesn’t contain other nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Studies show that highly sugared products may increase the risk of unhealthy weight gain, dental decay, and diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

More and more brands these days are opting for organic or sugar alternatives, which taste just as sweet as sugar but have fewer or no calories. These alternatives include stevia, coconut sugar, monk fruit extract, and honey, which offer more health benefits than refined sugar and other artificial sweeteners. 

Liquid I.V. contains dextrose, a simple sugar made from corn and is often used in baking products as a sweetener, and is commonly found in items such as processed foods. Consuming too many simple sugars can be bad for health. DripDrop on the other hand, offers a sugar-free option.

Are Sugar-Free Options Always Better For You?

While the idea of being sugar-free might sound good, it doesn’t mean that sugar is totally bad for you. Studies show that glucose is vital for the brain and an extremely important source of fuel throughout the body. 

Sugar is safe for consumption as long as it’s consumed in limited amounts. The American Heart Association recommends a limit of 36 grams or 150 calories of added sugar per day for men and 25 grams or 100 calories daily for women. Excessive sugar intake can lead to diabetes, liver problems, and cardiovascular problems

Sweeteners like stevia or agave do not raise glucose levels and may be safe for people with diabetes. At any rate, both sugar and sugar substitutes can be addictive especially when consumed in unhealthy amounts, with the latter more likely to make you go hungry and eat more throughout the day and still increase the risk of diabetes, so it’s best to consume anything with sugar (or its alternatives) in strict moderation. 

Flavor Diversity 

A good-tasting electrolyte drink helps you enjoy and drink more of it. Most electrolyte supplements offer a diverse flavor palette; almost always concentrated on fruit flavors. Other brands offer a plain, subtly sweet taste for those who may not find fruit flavors appetizing and can let them mix the supplement with their favorite beverages.

Liquid I.V. offers more flavors than DripDrop, counting the following 12 different fruit flavors.

  • Strawberry Lemonade
  • Seaberry
  • Tropical Punch
  • Lemon Lime
  • Golden Cherry
  • Acai Berry
  • Concord Grape
  • Passion Fruit 
  • Piña Colada
  • Guava
  • Strawberry
  • Watermelon 

Meanwhile, DripDrop has 11 different blends:

  • Bold Variety
  • Juicy Variety 
  • Watermelon
  • Fruit Punch
  • Berry
  • Passion Fruit
  • Lemon
  • Orange
  • Grape
  • Hibiscus
  • Decaf Green Tea

However, DripDrop offers zero-sugar options for Lemon Lime and Passion Fruit. 

Brand Reputation

Opting for a brand reputed for its high-quality, reliable products allows you to stick with a product consistently and assures you of its safety, quality, and efficiency. Reading their product testimonials and reviews helps you take a glimpse of their experiences with the brand’s quality and other services.

Trying out new brands allows you to explore interesting and innovative options and experience other benefits. 

DripDrop was established earlier, in 2008, while Liquid I.V. was founded 4 years later in 2012, but Liquid IV has the upper hand in terms of brand reputation, with a multitude of endorsements from experts and nutritionists and a wide network of brand ambassadors.  

Price & Value

Some supplements can sometimes exceed one’s allotted budget. So it’s important to weigh between similar options to find the best choice by considering other factors like the servings per pack, benefits, and ingredients, or if they have subscription packages or promos that offer more value for your money.

That way, you’ll be able to take the supplement more consistently and continue enjoying its benefits. 

Cost Comparison

Testimonials & Reviews

Customer testimonials and reviews help you give an idea of what to expect from taking our featured electrolyte supplements:

Mike M.‘s whole family loves the great outdoors, and Liquid I.V.’s taste and after-feel have made their adventures more exciting:

“This has become my family’s go-to drink! Tastes great with no after-taste or chalky residue. At least 2 (twice) a day and more if we’re doing an activity like biking, hiking, running, etc… Better than the big brand sports drinks for hydration”

April, a mother/fitness instructor, is greatly elated with DripDrop’s relatively low sugar content and how it’s done wonders for her and her family:

“As a fitness instructor, and busy mom on the go, it’s nice to have a great-tasting hydration option for myself and my family. What a relief to have a product we like that doesn’t have all the sugar of “popular” drinks. Something everyone can enjoy that is also good for us.”

Benefits Of Taking Electrolyte Supplements

Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electrical charge when dissolved in water and are obtained from the foods and fluids you drink. They are distributed through your body and use electrical energy to facilitate basic bodily functions like walking, breathing, and even thinking.

The six principal electrolytes include:

  • Sodium
  • Potassium
  • Magnesium
  • Calcium
  • Chloride
  • Phosphate

Electrolyte Daily Nutritional Requirements

There is no universally agreed-upon “best” balance of electrolytes, as the ideal ratio can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, physical activity level, climate, and individual health conditions. However, some general guidelines can help ensure that your electrolyte intake supports proper bodily functions:

  1. Sodium: Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance and proper nerve and muscle function. The American Heart Association recommends an intake of no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day for most adults, with an ideal limit of 1,500 mg for those with high blood pressure or other risk factors.
  2. Potassium: Potassium is crucial for muscle contractions, nerve signaling, and maintaining a healthy blood pressure. The recommended daily intake for adults is 2,500-3,000 mg for women and 3,000-3,500 mg for men.
  3. Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in numerous bodily functions, including energy production, nerve and muscle function, and bone health. The recommended daily intake for adults ranges from 310-320 mg for women and 400-420 mg for men, depending on age.
  4. Calcium: Calcium is necessary for strong bones and teeth, as well as muscle and nerve function. The recommended daily intake for adults is 1,000-1,300 mg, depending on age and sex.
  5. Chloride: Chloride, often consumed as a component of table salt (sodium chloride), helps maintain fluid balance and proper pH levels in the body. The recommended daily intake for chloride is about 2,300 mg for most adults.
  6. Phosphate: Phosphate is essential for energy production, bone health, and acid-base balance. It is a key component of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and nucleic acids, and it plays a role in intracellular signaling pathways.

When consuming electrolytes, it’s important to maintain a balance, as an excess or deficiency in one electrolyte can disrupt the balance of others. For instance, too much sodium can lead to a potassium deficiency, causing an electrolyte imbalance.

Keep in mind that these recommendations are general guidelines and that individual needs may vary. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate electrolyte balance for your specific situation, particularly if you engage in intense physical activity, live in a hot climate, or have a medical condition that affects electrolyte levels.

When a person sweats (especially during exercising and intense physical activities, they lose valuable electrolytes that need to replenish. Electrolyte levels in your blood can drop, causing an imbalance, which can result in things like:

  • Fatigue/weakness
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Muscle weakness and cramping
  • Headaches
  • Convulsions
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Confusion

Electrolyte imbalances often occur due to dehydration. Therefore, it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during exercise, illness, or excessive heat, when you tend to lose the most fluids. Drinking electrolyte beverages can help boost exercise performance, support nervous system function, rehydrate during illnesses, and even prevent heatstrokes.

Electrolytes also help…

  • Balance the amount of water in the body
  • Maintain the fluid balance inside and outside the cells,
  • Move nutrients into the cells
  • Removes wastes from cells
  • Balance the body’s pH level
  • Promotes nerve, muscle, heart, and brain functions
  • Repair and rebuild damaged tissue
  • Regulate chemical reactions

Drip drop versus Liquid IV FAQs

Is DripDrop better than Liquid IV?

If you’re looking for added benefits such as an energy boost, Liquid IV is a better option.

Liquid IV has a well-balanced blend of electrolytes and vitamins, particularly B-vitamins, which provide an energy boost.

However, it lacks nutrients like calcium chloride, zinc, and potassium which are present in DripDrop.

When should I take ORS?

Oral Rehydration Solutions should be taken whenever you feel the need to hydrate. They’re a popular pre- and post-workout beverage. Some people even take them to cure hangovers.

What’s the price difference between Drip drop and Liquid IV?

A pack of any Liquid IV bundle costs around $6 more than DripDrop. Liquid IV starts from about $25 for 16 servings. If you sign up for a Liquid IV subscription, you can save $5 every 16 servings, or 25% off.

An 8-pack of DripDrop with four flavors costs about $19. If you join their newsletter, you get 25% off your first purchase.

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Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.

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