Hydration, Trust, and Transparency: My Take on LMNT

I’ve been asked repeatedly about my stance on LMNT over the past few months. Now that my book manuscript is finally wrapped up (insert celebratory exhale here), I have the bandwidth to share my thoughts in a way that does this topic justice.

For full transparency, LMNT was a podcast sponsor from 2022-2024. My family and I use their products daily, and I’ve always appreciated their commitment to formulating a high-quality electrolyte mix. That said, I believe it’s important to have candid conversations about brand transparency… especially when it comes to ingredients.

The Maltodextrin Controversy: What You Need to Know

In the fall of 2024, there was a surge of discussion around maltodextrin in LMNT’s flavored electrolytes. Initially, a co-founder mistakenly stated that their product contained no maltodextrin. However, it was later confirmed that a small amount, 4mg per serving, was used as a flavor carrier.

To put this into perspective, this equates to 0.4g of carbs per packet, a minuscule amount. Over 10 to 20 packets, that’s roughly one teaspoon.

While the small amount of maltodextrin isn’t a concern for me personally, I appreciate the importance of clear and open communication. Trust between brands and consumers matters. The LMNT team, including Robb Wolf, a friend and colleague, acknowledged the oversight, clarified the issue, and took responsibility. They provided thorough explanations and made efforts to be more forthcoming moving forward. To me, that speaks volumes.

What Is Maltodextrin, Anyway?

For those unfamiliar, maltodextrin is a highly processed carbohydrate derived from starch (often corn, rice, potato, or wheat). It’s commonly used in the food industry to enhance texture, increase shelf life, or act as a filler.

In LMNT’s case, the maltodextrin they use is:

• Gluten-free

• GMO-free

• Derived from corn

And its sole function? To act as a carrier for natural flavors.

Decoding “Natural Flavors”

Another point of conversation is the term “natural flavors.” The FDA defines this as flavoring compounds derived from natural sources (plants, animals, or fungi) that are added for taste, not nutritional benefits.

Some examples include:

• Vanilla extract from vanilla beans

• Citrus oils from oranges, lemons, or limes

• Apple essence from apple juice concentrate

Most “natural flavors” on ingredient labels aren’t a single compound. They’re often a blend of multiple flavoring agents designed to create a specific taste profile, sometimes in a proprietary way.

According to LMNT’s explanation (as shared by Robb Wolf):

“Because our drink mixes are powders, the liquid natural flavors get sprayed onto a powder carrier.". The carrier serves two purposes: one, to easily distribute the flavor throughout the powdered product, and two, to help the powder fully and easily dissolve in water while adding the last possible color, flavor, and calories. LMNT uses maltodextrin as a flavor carrier in our flavored drink mixes.”

So… What Are Your Options?

If you’re someone who wants to completely avoid maltodextrin, you have choices:

• Go unflavored. LMNT’s unflavored electrolyte mix contains no maltodextrin. Bonus? My youngest loves it.

• Try the sparkling options. I personally love the grapefruit variety.

Make your own electrolytes. Here’s a DIY electrolyte recipe from LMNT: Best Homemade Electrolyte Drink for Hydration.

How My Team & I Use LMNT

At The Midlife Pause™, my team believes that hydration and electrolyte balance are essential to feeling and functioning at our best. Here’s how LMNT fits into our daily routines:

Cynthia: “I use LMNT to support mild dysautonomia, autoimmune health, and overall recovery. Since incorporating it into my routine, I’ve noticed fewer headaches, less tension, improved sleep, and better hydration. And my thyroid numbers? Right where they should be! My favorite flavors? Orange Salt and Grapefruit Sparkling.”

Tessa: “I love and crave LMNT watermelon salt. With my early morning workouts and long work days, using LMNT daily helps my body to stay hydrated & balanced.”

Jill: “For me, LMNT is a must-have for post-workout recovery and autoimmune support. Staying properly hydrated helps prevent muscle cramps, dizziness, and fatigue… things that can easily throw off my day. My go-to flavor? Citrus Salt.”

Jayme: “Drinking water has never been difficult for me but getting the right balance of electrolytes to actually absorb that water—that has been an issue. I started using LMNT a few years ago when I was running a lot to help me stay energized and hydrated and now, it’s just part of my daily routine. Bonus? It actually tastes good. My go-to flavors are Grapefruit Salt and Orange Salt.”

Final Thoughts: Our Take on LMNT

I appreciate LMNT’s commitment to quality and transparency. They’ve taken steps to provide clear information about their ingredients, and I value their openness in these conversations.

At the end of the day, the best choice is always the one that aligns with your needs and preferences. Whether it’s LMNT or another hydration strategy, we encourage you to stay informed and make the choices that support your well-being.

No matter how you hydrate, we’re here to support you in feeling your best.

Stay hydrated, stay informed, and, most importantly, stay empowered.