Liquid IV vs Waterboy, Which Is Better?

Liquid IV vs Waterboy is a frequent dilemma for individuals looking to boost their hydration face.

In this article, we will consider the ingredients, cost, and flavors to determine which product is better for you.

Liquid IV vs Waterboy, What Are They?

Liquid IV and Waterboy are hydration supplements.

Hydration multipliers, such as Liquid IV and Waterboy, come in packets of powder to be mixed into water.

Electrolytes, vitamins, and many other ingredients combine to allow hydration multipliers to aid hydration.

Liquid IV or Waterboy with water hydrates the body more effectively and efficiently than water alone.

How Do Hydration Supplements Work?

Both products include a combination of electrolytes, carbohydrates, and vitamins, which optimizes water transportation to the bloodstream. In turn, nutrient transportation efficiency increases.

Liquid IV and Waterboy are third-party tested and peer-reviewed products. They are proven to hydrate the body more efficiently than water alone.

There are certainly other methods of sufficiently hydrating the body. So, what is the point of getting a hydration supplement?

Essentially, the idea of these products is that they serve as a quick and practical method that ensures you are hydrated.

Most people are cognisant that drinking water is a good thing; and that they should probably be drinking more. However, many still do not drink enough glasses daily.

The reality is that most people do not have the time or forget to drink ten glasses of water every day.

Including a hydration supplement in one of your glasses of water could significantly benefit your hydration.

Also, many know the unpleasant feeling of the morning after drinking. This feeling stems from dehydration. Both Liquid IV and Waterboy can help mitigate hangover symptoms. Waterboy, in particular, was designed with this scenario in mind.

Not to mention its usefulness for athletes, who lose a considerable amount of electrolytes during exercise.

Notable Electrolytes of The Body

The Role of Electrolytes In Hydration And Exercise

Electrolytes are minerals found in the bloodstream and are responsible for multiple functions within the body.

The primary functions of electrolytes are regulating blood pressure and acidity (pH), muscle contraction, and balancing fluid levels in the body.

Maintaining adequate electrolyte levels allows the body to function properly and stay hydrated.

During exercise, electrolytes get lost via sweating which makes replenishing electrolytes before, during, and after exercise necessary.

Not every person sweats the same amount, and not every person loses the same amount of electrolytes per unit of sweat.

If you are a ‘salty sweater,’ you may lose more sodium during exercise than the average person making it even more important to consume electrolytes.

While there is no denying the necessity of electrolytes and the benefits they pose for exercise, overdoing them is possible.

The most commonly over-consumed electrolyte in modern-western society is sodium. Although, that does not mean sodium is ‘bad’ for you. Sodium is an essential nutrient.

How much of each electrolyte you need depends on factors such as activity level, age, weight, health conditions, medications, and several others.

To learn more about how much of each electrolyte is right for you, consult with your doctor.

Sodium's Effect On Hydration

Contrary to common belief, sodium aids hydration. To learn more about how sodium affects hydration check out this article.

Hydration Supplement Benefits

Symptoms of Dehydration

Thirst, Dry Mouth
Dark Urine
Strong Smelling Urine
Urinating Fewer Than 4 Times A Day
Dizziness/Lightheadedness When Standing
Muscle Cramping
Headaches
Irritated Eyes

Benefits of Being Hydrated

Improved Metabolic Function & Weight Loss
Increased Physical Performance
Improved Neurological Function
Increased Energy Levels
Improved Digestive Function
Combats Hangovers
Improves Muscle Growth & Recovery
Decreased Risk of Kidney Stones
Improved Reaction Time
Enhanced Cardiorespiratory Function
Delivers Nutrients To Cells
Fights Infections
Allows All Vital Organs To Properly Function
Countless Other Physiological Benefits

Humans are roughly 60% water. That fact alone is enough to indicate the significance of hydration.

Countless peer-reviewed studies have found that adequate hydration has positive physiological benefits on nearly every bodily function.

Dehydration Risk Factors

Drinking Alcohol
'Heavy Sweaters'
Hot Environment
Vomiting & Diarrhea
Diabetics
Taking Diuretic Medication
Consuming Diuretic Beverages

Examples of Diuretic Food & Beverages

Liquid IV vs Waterboy: Ingredients

Considering the ingredients is necessary when comparing Liquid IV vs Waterboy.

Although they do share similarities, the two have some notable differences.

The values listed below refer to 1 serving size (1 packet). A Liquid IV packet contains 16g of powder. Waterboy packets contain 7.3g.

The Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for several ingredients is discussed below. The UL is the most of a given nutrient that the average healthy individual can consume with no likely risk of adverse effects.

Since every person is different physiologically, discuss ingredients with your doctor to ensure safety.

Liquid IV Food Label

Waterboy Food Label

Liquid IV Ingredients: 45 Calories

Total Carbohydrate (Dextrose): 11g

Some amount of sugar is necessary for energy. The body needs glucose for energy.

Dextrose is basically the same thing as glucose and serves the same function, giving it purpose within Liquid IV.

Although, surplus amounts of sugar have adverse effects on the body.

Modern diets commonly include far too much sugar. Health experts recommend less than 36g of sugar daily for the average adult.

11g of dextrose contained within Liquid IV accounts for 31% of the recommended daily sugar amount.

Although that is a lot of sugar, comparing Liquid IV to Gatorade helps give perspective.

A Gatorade packet of similar size includes 32g of added sugar (three times as much as Liquid IV)!

While the 11g of dextrose in Liquid IV might not be ideal, it is a relatively small amount of sugar compared to other sports drinks.

Negative Effects of Too Much Added Sugar

Weight Gain
Heart Disease
Diabetes
Kidney Disease
Liver Disease
Increase Risk of Cancers
Can Cause Acne
Worsens Symptoms of Depression
Decreases Energy
Can Increase Aging Processes

Sodium: 500 mg

Sodium is a well-known electrolyte that serves multiple functions within the body.

Functions include controlling fluid balance and blood pressure and allowing muscle contraction.

Experts estimate that the minimum amount of sodium for the average adult is 500 mg daily.

The reality is the majority of people overconsume sodium. Overdoing sodium may cause adverse health effects.

Negative Effects of Too Much Sodium

High Blood Pressure
Additional Strain on the Heart and Blood Vessels
Increased Risk of Stroke
Weakened Bones
Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Damage to Kidneys and Liver
Osteoporosis

Although avoiding overdoing sodium intake is a beneficial aspect of health, remembering sodium’s importance is equally as crucial.

Sodium needs vary from person to person, influenced by factors such as age, sex, weight, medical conditions, and activity level.

During exercise, someone can lose anywhere from 500-8000 mg of sodium! The amount of sodium lost varies based on environment, exercise intensity, and several other individualized variants.

Thus, people who exercise will need more sodium to maintain adequate levels during exercise. Not replenishing sodium stores during and after a workout may lead to hyponatremia (low sodium).

Effects of Hyponatremia

Low Blood Pressure
Fluid Imbalance (Dehydration)
Low Energy
Confusion
Muscle Cramps
Nausea
Muscle Weakness
Headache
Fatigue

Based on everything discussed above, 500 mg of sodium is not only safe but very beneficial for individuals recovering from or participating in exercise.

The 500 mg of dehydration will also help with other situations that prompt dehydration (hangover, morning ‘dry mouth’, etc.).

However, people who have an excess amount of sodium in their diet and do not exercise regularly may want to consider altering their diet before incorporating Liquid IV.

Potassium: 370 mg

Potassium is another electrolyte of the body and is an essential nutrient.

Potassium-rich diets could have several health benefits.

Potassium (like sodium) influences hydration and the balance of fluids within the body. So, it works well as a hydration multiplier ingredient.

There is no official Upper Tolerable Intake Level set for potassium. Although, experts say that 5000-6000 mg of potassium could be.

Either way, for the average-healthy adult, the 370 mg of potassium in Liquid IV will come with nothing but benefits.

Positive Effects of Potassium

Helps Balance Fluids
Allows Proper Nervous System Function
Enables Muscle Contractions (Including The Heart)
Helps Prevent Strokes
Reduces Risk of Kidney Stones
Helps Prevent Osteoporosis

Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 22.8 mg

Vitamin B3 (niacin) is a B vitamin commonly found in foods. Niacin is linked to an increase in energy levels. Additionally, niacin is necessary for other bodily functions.

The UL of niacin is 35 mg (22.8 mg in Liquid IV is 65% of the UL).

For the average healthy adult, 22.8 mg of niacin most likely will not cause unwanted side effects. Although, there are other considerations.

For example, a 6 oz steak contains 12 mg of niacin, combined with the 22.8 mg from Liquid IV to get 34.8 mg of the 35 mg UL.

Despite being unlikely, 35 mg of niacin is the point at which adverse side effects could occur. Although, usually only high-dose niacin supplements will cause this.

Potential Symptoms of Too Much Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): 11.4 mg

Like the other B vitamins, B5 (pantothenic acid) helps convert glucose into energy for the body to use. Also, pantothenic acid serves other functions for the body.

The UL of pantothenic acid is unestablished, although it is estimated to be more than 5 grams (11.4 mg in Liquid IV).

Functions of Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

Red Blood Cell Production
Hormone Production
Supports Gut Health
May Alleviate Stress
Wound Healing Properties
May Reduce The Risk Of Stroke
Promotes Healthy Skin

Vitamin B6: 2.3 mg

Vitamin B6 is another B vitamin responsible for breaking down macronutrients and converting them into energy.

It is frequently researched due to the promising health benefits associated with increased B6 levels.

The upper tolerable intake level of vitamin B6 is 100 mg daily.

Potential Benefits of Increased Vitamin B6 Levels

Although the research is promising, it is also inconclusive.

Vitamin B12: 6.8 mcg

Vitamin B12 serves multiple functions within the body. Such as red blood cell production, nerve/brain function, and DNA production.

The upper tolerable intake level of B12 is unestablished. However, it is likely more than 1000 mcg (according to experts).

Despite being somewhat uncommon, 15% of the population may have a B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Risk Factors

Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin C: 76 mg

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that has multiple vital functions for the body.

Vitamin C Functions

Heals Wounds
Collagen Production
Blood Vessel Formation
Cartilage Formation
Controls Infections
Hormone Production
Boosts Immune System
May Combat Free Radicals

The upper tolerable intake level for vitamin C is 2000 mg daily.

Smokers are recommended to get 35 mg more daily than the average person.

Other Ingredients

Stevia leaf extract is a natural sweetener. It is an alternative to sugar and comes with 0 calories.

The potential adverse health effects of stevia leaf extract are not well-researched, although there is no evidence to suggest any.

Silicon dioxide is an anticaking agent included in many supplements.

It is a naturally existing compound, and there is no evidence to suggest it has harmful effects when consumed.

Citric acid is a food preservative that serves to extend the product’s shelf life. It can also help balance the acidity in drinks.

Like other acidic drinks, the acidity of citric acid can wear on tooth enamel over time. It may be a good idea to rinse with water after drinking products with citric acid.

Natural flavors are a heavily-regulated food additive. Classified as any extract derived from natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, roots, and others.

Natural flavors are not considered to have harmful side effects.

Waterboy Ingredients: 10 Calories

Liquid IV: 45 Calories

Total Carbohydrate: 2g

Liquid IV: 11g

As discussed previously, carbohydrates are necessary for energy in the body.

Waterboy includes a very moderate 2g of carbs coming in small amounts from several of its ingredients.

Unlike Liquid IV (11g), Waterboy has no added sugar.

Sodium: 1130 mg

Liquid IV: 500 mg

Sodium is a well-known electrolyte that serves multiple functions within the body.

Functions include controlling fluid balance and blood pressure and allowing muscle contraction.

Experts estimate that the minimum amount of sodium for the average adult is 500 mg daily.

The reality is the majority of people overconsume sodium. Overdoing sodium may cause adverse health effects.

Negative Effects of Too Much Sodium

High Blood Pressure
Additional Strain on the Heart and Blood Vessels
Increased Risk of Stroke
Weakened Bones
Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Damage to Kidneys and Liver
Osteoporosis

Although avoiding overdoing sodium intake is a beneficial aspect of health, remembering sodium’s importance is equally as crucial.

Sodium needs vary from person to person, influenced by factors such as age, sex, weight, medical conditions, and activity level.

During exercise, someone can lose anywhere from 500-8000 mg of sodium! The amount of sodium lost varies based on environment, exercise intensity, and several other individualized variants.

Thus, people who exercise will need more sodium to maintain adequate levels during exercise. Not replenishing sodium stores during and after a workout may lead to hyponatremia (low sodium).

Effects of Hyponatremia

Low Blood Pressure
Fluid Imbalance (Dehydration)
Low Energy
Confusion
Muscle Cramps
Nausea
Muscle Weakness
Headache
Fatigue

1130 mg is a substantial amount that could significantly benefit someone recovering from a workout or hangover.

However, someone who is relatively inactive and already has an average amount of sodium in their diet may want to pause before including Waterboy.

Potassium: 344 mg

Liquid IV: 370 mg

Potassium is another electrolyte of the body and is an essential nutrient.

Potassium-rich diets could have several health benefits.

Potassium (like sodium) influences hydration and the balance of fluids within the body. So, it works well as a hydration multiplier ingredient.

There is no official Upper Tolerable Intake Level set for potassium. Although, experts say that 5000-6000 mg of potassium could be.

Either way, for the average-healthy adult, the 344 mg of potassium in Waterboy will come with nothing but benefits.

Magnesium: 54 mg

Magnesium is an electrolyte, a crucial piece of a balanced diet.

The recommended daily intake for magnesium is 400-420 mg for men and 310-320 mg for women.

Magnesium plays a key role in keeping the body functioning properly. It supports bone, heart, nerve, and muscle functions. It also helps prevent several diseases.

Many people today are deficient in magnesium due to an imbalanced diet.

Magnesium Deficiency Risk Factors

Signs of A Magnesium Deficiency

According to experts, 350 mg is generally the largest amount of magnesium recommended to get from supplements alone (54 mg in Waterboy).

Too much magnesium can cause unwanted side effects. Effects include nausea, bad mood, weakness, low blood pressure, and even heart attack.

Although, reaching that level of magnesium via hydration multipliers and other dietary means alone is extremely unlikely.

Calcium: 17 mg

Liquid IV: 0 mg

Calcium is an electrolyte commonly associated with strong bones. Although, the importance of calcium extends beyond healthy bones.

Functions of Calcium

Despite being widely available in foods and supplements, people can become calcium deficient.

The recommended amount of calcium daily for healthy adults is in the 1000-1200 mg range.

Calcium’s upper tolerable intake level is 2500 mg daily.

Symptoms of Hypocalcemia (Low Calcium)

Chloride: 1642 mg

Liquid IV: 0 mg

Chloride is another electrolyte of the body and is very similar to sodium.

Like sodium, chloride plays a role in the body’s fluid balance and influences hydration mechanisms. Chloride has similar functions to other electrolytes.

Functions of Chloride

The upper tolerable intake level of chloride is 3600 mg daily.

Vitamin B12: 12.2 mcg

Liquid IV: 6.6 mcg

Vitamin B12 serves multiple functions within the body. Such as red blood cell production, nerve/brain function, and DNA production.

The upper tolerable intake level of B12 is unestablished. However, it is likely more than 1000 mcg (according to experts).

Despite being somewhat uncommon, 15% of the population may have a B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Risk Factors

Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin C: 451 mg

Liquid IV: 76 mg

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that has multiple vital functions for the body.

Vitamin C Functions

Heals Wounds
Collagen Production
Blood Vessel Formation
Cartilage Formation
Controls Infections
Hormone Production
Boosts Immune System
May Combat Free Radicals

The upper tolerable intake level for vitamin C is 2000 mg daily.

Smokers are recommended to get 35 mg more daily than the average person.

L-Theanine: 200 mg

Liquid IV: 0 mg

L-Theanine is a naturally-occurring amino acid that is not produced by the body.

It has been used in Japan as a medication for decades.

L-Theanine is found in small amounts in some teas.

L-Theanine Benefits

Supports Restful Sleep
Reduces Stress
Can Improve Brain Function
May Improve the Ability to Focus
Relieves Anxiety
Can Improve Mood
Calming Effect on the Body
Supports Immune System Health
Can Help Regulate Blood Pressure

No adverse health effects are associated with L-Theanine.

One 8-week study shows evidence that up to 900 mg of L-Theanine daily is safe for the average adult.

Ginger Extract: 200 mg

Liquid IV: 0 mg

Ginger extract is a commonly used substance to treat nausea.

It can interact with certain medications so, like any other supplement, it is important to consult with your doctor before starting.

The upper tolerable intake level of the ginger extract is 4000 mg.

Proven Ginger Extract Benefits

Other Potential Benefits of Ginger Extract

Helps Control Infections
Improves Brain Function
Prevent Some Cancers
Treats Chronic Indigestion
Lowers Risk of Heart Disease
Helps Weight Loss Efforts
Treats Osteoarthritis

Other Ingredients

Stevia leaf extract is a natural sweetener. It is an alternative to sugar and comes with 0 calories.

The potential adverse health effects of stevia leaf extract are not well-researched, although there is no evidence to suggest any.

Citric acid is a food preservative that serves to extend the product’s shelf life. It can also help balance the acidity in drinks.

Like other acidic drinks, the acidity of citric acid can wear on tooth enamel over time. It may be a good idea to rinse with water after drinking products with citric acid.

Natural flavors are a heavily-regulated food additive. Classified as any extract derived from natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, roots, and others.

Natural flavors are not considered to have harmful side effects.

Liquid IV vs Waterboy Ingredients: Pros & Cons

Liquid IV

Pros

Cons

Waterboy

Pros

More Electrolytes
10 Calories
No Added Sugars
L-Theanine
Ginger Extract
Calcium
Magnesium

Cons

Liquid IV vs Waterboy: Cost

Waterboy is more expensive than Liquid IV.

The advantage gained by the Waterboy ingredients gets repaid quite literally in cost. Waterboy explains that their product has four times as many electrolytes as other supplements per packet.

While Waterboy is significantly more expensive, there are ways to reduce costs.

Waterboy offers discounts on its website when bought in bulk and allows a subscription service to save even more.

Liquid IV: $23.95 (16 Count)

Liquid IV offers subscription through Amazon.

Waterboy: $25.99 (10 Count)

Amazon

Waterboy.com (Without Subscription)

Waterboy.com (With Subscription) - Save 15%

On waterboy.com, there is free shipping on orders $40+.

Subscription delivery options are every 1 month, 2 months, or 3 months.

Liquid IV vs Waterboy: Taste & Flavors

Both Liquid IV vs Waterboy have good selections of good-tasting flavors.

Subjectively, both Liquid IV and Waterboy taste very good and there is not a clear winner. Both can be stronger or weaker tasting with more or less water added to them.

However, Liquid IV has a significant edge in variety.

Liquid IV Flavors

Strawberry
Tropical Punch
Piña Colada
Concord Grape
Golden Cherry
Acai Berry
Lemon Lime
Watermelon
Passion Fruit
Guava
Variety Pack

Waterboy Flavors

Liquid IV vs Waterboy, Which Is Better?

Waterboy.

The quick answer to Liquid IV vs Waterboy is Waterboy.

Waterboy has more to offer with its ingredients than Liquid IV and therefore is a better product.

However, that is not the only factor. If you are someone looking to spend as little as possible on hydration multipliers, Liquid IV makes much more sense.

The two products have comparable flavors and tastes so it really boils down to ingredients vs cost.

Waterboy has more beneficial ingredients, but that shows on the price tag.

Depending on which factor is the priority for you will determine which is better.