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After an intense sweat, you need to rehydrate your body and replenish key minerals it uses to function properly. While plain water is a great rehydrator, adding electrolytes takes it to the next level. Electrolyte-fortified beverages have been proven to improve exercise recovery.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost is a caffeinated electrolyte powder from Redmond, which is known for its Real Salt. Sourced from the brand’s Utah-based mines, Redmond claims its unrefined, ancient sea salt contains “60+ naturally-occurring trace minerals.” Its Re-Lyte powder is made with Real Salt, other key electrolytes, vitamins and plant extracts.
We spent a week testing Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost in the flavor lemon lime, evaluating it for taste and rehydrating power. Below you’ll find our thoughts on Re-Lyte Boost, detailed information on its nutritional profile, and commentary from a registered dietitian who assessed the product.
This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte At a Glance
- Electrolytes include Redmond’s proprietary Real Salt, potassium, magnesium and calcium
- Fortified with B vitamins
- 0 calories per serving and carb-free
- Comes in two flavors: lemon lime and raspberry mango
- 120 mg of caffeine per serving
- 45 servings per container
- Sugar-free, vegan and keto/paleo friendly
What we like
- Contains four of the most important electrolytes
- No calories or carbs per serving
- No sugar
- Low cost per serving
- Has more than 100 percent of your Daily Value of vitamins B3, B6 and B12
What to consider
- Salty, bitter taste won’t appeal to all consumers
- Caffeine content may be too high for some users
- Ashwagandha and maca extract should be avoided by pregnant and breastfeeding people
- Not safe for those with coconut allergies
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost Claims
Redmond claims that Re-Lyte Boost is a “clean, caffeinated energy drink that leaves you feeling focused and invigorated without giving you the jitters or causing you to crash.” It says that its “optimal blend of ingredients” gives an “amazing lift.” Redmond also says that Re-Lyte Boost doesn’t contain any of the “junk ingredients or fillers” (which it cites as sugar, chemical preservatives and artificial sweeteners, flavors and colors) found in other energy drinks.
My Experience Testing Remond’s Re-Lyte Boost
I spent a week testing Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost in the flavor lemon lime. I tried this electrolyte drink about six times over the course of the week. I tested it before and after workouts. Since I have a desk job where sweating is unlikely, I generally don’t drink hydration drinks throughout the day. I follow the advice of most experts, who say you don’t need to reach for electrolyte beverages every time you’re thirsty.
Before I discuss how well Re-Lyte Boost hydrated me, I want to talk about flavor. In my opinion, the lemon lime powder I tested had a particularly strong flavor. Upon the first sip, I found it to taste quite bitter. As I drank more, I got used to the initial bitterness, but noticed that it also had a salty flavor. I wasn’t a huge fan of this combination, but I did appreciate the fact that it didn’t taste very sweet—I prefer sugar and sweetener-free beverages.
While I didn’t love the taste of this powder, I did love how well it hydrated me. I noticed a big difference between how hydrated I felt when I used the Redmond’s vs. water. When I drank it before a workout, I didn’t feel the need to reach for a drink right after finishing like I normally do. And when I used it after a workout, I didn’t need as much liquid to quench my thirst.
I’ll also note that Re-Lyte Boost has a decent amount of caffeine per serving: 120 milligrams. While I enjoyed the added energy I felt, people who are sensitive to caffeine might not. Redmond also offers Re-Lyte Hydration, which has similar ingredients, but is free from caffeine.
Quality of Ingredients
Redmond Real Salt (Sodium Chloride)
Salt, also known as sodium chloride, is an essential nutrient that the body needs for a host of processes. For example, both sodium and chloride help the body regulate fluid levels. Redmond does not state exactly how much Real Salt is in its Re-Lyte Boost powder, but the nutrition facts say the powder has 500 mg of sodium (22 percent of your Daily Value) and 790 mg of chloride (34 percent of your Daily Value) per serving.
Redmond’s Real Salt is sourced from the brand’s own Utah-based mines in Redmond, Utah. Redmond says its mines have “ancient sea salt” left over from a prehistoric sea that once covered Redmond. The brand says the unrefined salt has more than 60 trace minerals. While names and amounts of those minerals are not listed on the nutrition label, Redmond has a trace mineral analysis of its Real Salt on its website.
“The use of sea salt doesn't necessarily make it nutritionally superior to regular table salt, but sea salt is traditionally less-processed which allows for more trace minerals to be left behind. So there could be a slight benefit in having a higher mineral content,” says Samantha Coogan, M.S., R.D.N., a program director in nutrition and dietetics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Calcium
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost contains 55 milligrams of calcium per serving, which is four percent of your Daily Value. The calcium is in a form called calcium lactate anhydrous, which is FDA-approved and found in many food products. Calcium is an essential mineral that the body needs for strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in muscle movement and proper nerve functioning. Though Redmond’s only contains a small amount of your Daily Value of calcium, you can get it from food sources like milk, cheese, broccoli, kale and canned sardines.
Magnesium
Magnesium is another essential electrolyte. Re-Lyte Boost has 40 mg per serving, which is 10 percent of your Daily Value. Magnesium malate and magnesium glycinate are the forms used in this supplement. Magnesium malate is made from magnesium and malic acid, and is a bioavailable form of the mineral. Magnesium glycinate is made from magnesium and the amino acid glycine, and is also highly bioavailable.
Potassium
Re-Lyte Boost has 350 mg of potassium per serving, which is seven percent of your Daily Value. The potassium is in the form of potassium citrate, which is a combination of potassium and citric acid that can be used to treat kidney infections. Potassium helps maintain regular fluid levels inside cells, and is therefore needed throughout the body. Foods high in potassium include bananas, spinach, beans and almonds.
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, helps the body turn food into energy. It also helps improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Re-Lyte Boost has 23 mg per serving, which is 144 percent of your Daily Value. Though the dose here exceeds the recommended Daily Value, side effects begin to occur at doses of 500 mg and higher, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is often used to treat vitamin B6 deficiency and is prescribed to pregnant people to help with nausea and vomiting. Like B3, and all other B vitamins, it also helps the body convert food into energy. Re-Lyte has 2.4 mg of vitamin B6 per serving, which is 143 percent of your Daily Value. Taking too much vitamin B6 for an extended period of time can cause nerve damage, warns the NIH, but the amounts are far higher than present in this supplement.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is another one of the essential B vitamins. The body needs it to make DNA and red blood cells. Many animal foods, like red meat, shellfish and eggs are high in B12, but it can be found in fortified nutritional yeast and cereal as well. Re-Lyte has 7.2 mcg of B12 per serving, and is in the form methylcobalamin, which has been used to treat nutritional diseases. Re-Lyte has 300 percent of your Daily Value of vitamin B12. High doses of B12 are generally considered safe.
Coconut Water Powder
Re-Lyte Boost has 70 mg of coconut water powder per serving. Coconut water is known for its rehydrating benefits. It’s also high in minerals, vitamins and antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that cause cancer. Coconut water powder is safe for most, but may cause a reaction in those allergic to coconuts.
Natural Caffeine (from Green Tea Extract)
Green tea extract also has antioxidants and is known to help fight cancer and inflammation. Redmond’s Re-Lyte has 120 mg of caffeine from green tea extract per serving, “which is roughly 1.3x the amount in a single, 8-oz cup of coffee,” says Coogan. Those sensitive to caffeine may experience side effects, which include anxiety, headaches and tremors or shakes.
Beet Root Extract
Re-Lyte Boost has 10 mg of beet root extract per serving. Beet root has antioxidants called betalains that research shows may reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Beet root powder also helps fight inflammation and promotes better brain function.
Ginseng Root Extract
Ginseng was discovered over 5000 years ago in China and has since been used in holistic medicine. Ginseng root extract has been shown in some studies to boost the immune system, improve cognition and fight cancer. Studies have also shown that it increases energy. Potential side effects of taking ginseng include breast pain/tenderness, headache, irregular menstrual cycles and trouble sleeping.
Maca Root Extract
Re-Lyte Boost has 10 mg of maca root extract per serving. Maca root is native to Peru and has been used medicinally for more than 1000 years. It is purported to improve energy levels, virility and fertility, and reduce menstruation symptoms. Experts warn that maca should not be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding people.
Rhodiola Rosea Extract
Rhodiola rosea is a perennial flowering plant native to Arctic regions. It has long been used in traditional medicine to treat depression, improve physical and mental performance and treat gastrointestinal (GI) issues. Re-Lyte Boost has 10 mg of rhodiola rosea extract per serving.
Related Post: The Best Rhodiola Supplements
Ashwagandha Extract
Re-Lyte has 10 mg of ashwagandha extract per serving. Ashwagandha has been used for more than 3000 years in Ayurvedic medicine and is purported to help reduce anxiety, stress, fatigue and joint pain. In large doses, ashwagandha can cause GI issues in some people. Experts warn that pregnant and breastfeeding people should not take ashwagandha.
Other ingredients
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost also contains GMO-free citric acid, natural lemon and lime flavors, stevia leaf extract and natural flavors. All of these ingredients are considered safe by the FDA. However, some research shows that stevia can cause GI issues.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Flavors
At the time of writing, Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost comes in two flavors: lemon lime and raspberry mango. I tested the lemon lime flavor. As noted in my testing experience section above, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the lemon lime—I found it to be bitter and a little too salty. However, I’ll note that this was my personal preference, and many customers online commented that they really enjoyed this flavor.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Cost
Redmond Re-Lyte Boost costs $46.99 without a subscription. It has 45 servings per container, so each serving is about $1.04. With a subscription, you can save 15%, and Redmond offers free shipping on orders over $30. Particularly with a subscription, but even without one, Redmond is more affordable than similar electrolyte mixes. And since it contains a lot more than just electrolytes—B vitamins, plant extracts and trace minerals—it would be tough to find a similar product for cheaper.
Who Should Use Redmond’s Re-Lyte
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost is great for people looking for a caffeinated electrolyte mix with the most important electrolytes. It’s also ideal for those after a sugar and carb-free product. It’s budget-friendly, and works for those on vegan, keto and paleo diets. According to Coogan, Re-Lyte is a good choice for “those looking for a pre-workout/electrolyte replacement beverage with a minimal ingredient list.”
Who Should Not Use Redmond’s Re-Lyte
People sensitive to caffeine will want to avoid this electrolyte mix, and it’s not safe for those with coconut allergies. “Those taking any medications should consult a physician first to ensure there are no drug-nutrient interactions with any of the given ingredients. Diuretics could have an adverse effect since many are potassium-based and pull water from the body,” says Coogan. She also advises those with heart conditions to consult a physician prior to use.
What Customers Are Saying About Redmond’s Re-Lyte
Customers on Redmond’s website gave Re-Lyte Boost 4.5/5 stars out of 71 ratings. Many users said they used the product daily. “The difference in my days and how much stronger, sharper and energized I feel is incredible!” said reviewer Lauri. Re-Lyte Boost is also available for purchase on Amazon, where it has a rating of 4.3/5 stars from 344 ratings. Amazon reviewers praised the mineral combination and dissolvability of the product. On both sites, some customers were unhappy with the taste, and a few didn’t realize the product had caffeine. But overall, users who wanted a caffeinated hydration product were pleased with their purchase.
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About Redmond
Redmond says its mission is “ to inspire people to live intentionally and create a life full of possibility.” The Utah-based company originated with Lamar and Milo Bosshart, two brothers who farmed the land above Redmond mines in the 1950s. According to Redmond, a long drought spurred them to consider other ways to make a profit from their land, and with the knowledge that Native Americans once harvested salt from their land, they began to mine and found huge deposits of salt.
In 1992, Rhett Roberts, an entrepreneur focused on investments in whole food farming, joined the company, later becoming CEO in 1999. Roberts helped create Redmond’s Real Salt, which the brand claims has more than 60 trace minerals. Redmond’s Real Salt is present in all its ingestible products, which include its Re-Lyte line of electrolyte powders, various forms of Real Salt, seasonings and toothpaste. The brand also offers clay products that come from a mine near its salt mines.
Redmond Real Salt is Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) listed, which means it can be used in organic food production or processing, according to the USDA. And Redmond Real Salt has been analyzed by third-party laboratories, which evaluate its mineral contents.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte vs. LMNT
Like Redmond’s Re-Lyte, LMNT is an electrolyte powder that you add to water. LMNT has quite a bit of sodium—1,000 milligrams per serving—which is double what Re-Lyte has. Both powders have magnesium and potassium, but LMNT has 20 mg more magnesium than Re-Lyte, while Re-Lyte has 150 milligrams more potassium than LMNT. Both products are sweetened with stevia. The main differences between these two products is that LMNT is not caffeinated, and LMNT is offered in a lot more flavors.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte vs. Liquid IV
Liquid IV is another electrolyte powder that is fairly similar to Re-Lyte Boost. It has the same amount of sodium and 30 mg more potassium. Liquid IV contains the three same B vitamins as Re-Lyte Boost, but in slightly different amounts. Re-Lyte Boost has calcium, magnesium and chloride, which aren’t found in Liquid IV. Liquid IV is available in versions with and without sugar, while all Re-Lyte powders are sugar-free. Like LMNT, the main differences between Liquid IV and Re-Lyte Boost is that Liquid IV is not caffeinated and has far more flavor options.
Redmond’s Re-Lyte FAQs
What are the benefits of Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost?
Redmond’s Re-Lyte Boost has a good electrolyte profile and is ideal for those looking for a caffeinated electrolyte mix with 0 calories, sugar and carbs. “It carries a nice dose of B-vitamins, sodium and potassium for electrolyte replenishment, and touts giving you energy without the crash, which I think is very dependent on the person and what other sources of energy, calories, they've had throughout the day,” says Coogan.
What are the side effects of Redmond’s Re-Lyte?
The main side effect customers reported was jitters from the caffeine in Re-Lyte Boost. According to Coogan, side effects of this product can include stomach/abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, bloody stools, dry mouth, severe thirst and decreased urination.
Can you take Redmond’s Re-Lyte every day?
Redmond’s recommends one to two servings per day. “I'd caution closer to no more than once per day, especially if you intake caffeine from other sources,” says Coogan. “Oftentimes, supplement companies list higher suggested serving sizes so that you'll run out more quickly and need to restock sooner.”
Takeaway: Is Trying Redmond’s Re-Lyte Worth It?
If you’re looking for a caffeinated electrolyte powder, we think Re-Lyte Boost is worth trying. It’s affordable, free from unnecessary additives, and packs in quite a punch of electrolytes and vitamins. Though the flavor profile might not be for everyone, most customers enjoyed it, and we think it’s a very hydrating product.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.