Is 100PLUS Good for Hydration? Comparing Isotonic Drinks with Water

December 19, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the official 100PLUS website, their isotonic drink is formulated to restore what the body loses during physical exertion. But is 100PLUS good for hydration in every situation, or is plain water a better option for everyday use? This article breaks down the science to help you make an informed choice for your specific hydration needs.

Quick Summary

This article provides a comprehensive look at the benefits and drawbacks of using 100PLUS for hydration. It details when the isotonic drink is more effective than water, discusses its electrolyte and sugar content, and clarifies its role in athletic performance versus daily use.

Key Points

Isotonic Formula: 100PLUS is an isotonic drink, formulated for rapid fluid, electrolyte, and carbohydrate absorption, making it effective for strenuous exercise.
Not for Daily Use: Due to its sugar and calorie content (in original versions), 100PLUS is not an ideal replacement for plain water for general, daily hydration.
Best for Exercise: It is most beneficial during and after intense, prolonged physical activity or in hot weather, as it replenishes lost electrolytes and provides an energy boost.
Product Variants: Different 100PLUS products, such as Active and Zero Sugar, cater to varying needs, with the Zero Sugar option being suitable for those seeking electrolytes without calories.
Water is the Standard: For most people, most of the time, water remains the gold standard for hydration, providing essential fluid without unnecessary sugars.
Electrolyte Replenishment: In cases of extreme fluid loss, like severe diarrhea, both water and electrolyte-containing drinks are needed, but sports drinks may not provide the precise balance required.

What is an Isotonic Drink?

An isotonic drink, like 100PLUS, is specifically formulated to have a similar concentration of carbohydrates and electrolytes to the human body's own fluids. This unique balance allows for rapid absorption into the bloodstream, making it highly effective for replenishing lost fluids, energy, and key minerals during and after intense physical exertion. The electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, help the body absorb and retain water more efficiently, while the carbohydrates (glucose and sucrose) provide a quick energy boost.

100PLUS vs. Water: The Hydration Battle

When considering your hydration strategy, the choice between 100PLUS and water depends heavily on your activity level and duration. For the average person engaging in daily, low-intensity activities, plain water is almost always the best choice. It is free of calories and sugar, providing essential hydration without the added energy that most people do not need.

However, the dynamic changes during strenuous or prolonged exercise. During an intense workout, the body loses both water and vital electrolytes through sweat. Relying solely on water to rehydrate can leave the body depleted of these crucial minerals, which can lead to fatigue or cramping. This is where an isotonic drink like 100PLUS shines. Its formulation is designed to replenish these lost electrolytes and carbohydrates quickly, restoring the body's balance and improving performance and recovery.

The Role of Electrolytes and Carbohydrates

The key difference between 100PLUS and water lies in its nutritional composition. Water provides fluid without any energy or electrolyte replacement. 100PLUS contains a blend of carbohydrates and electrolytes that address specific needs during physical exertion. For example, the sodium in 100PLUS helps the body absorb and retain fluid, a critical function during intense exercise. The carbohydrates, such as glucose and sucrose, provide an immediate and readily available source of energy, which is important for sustaining performance over longer periods.

100PLUS Product Variants

It is important to note that not all 100PLUS products are the same. The company offers different formulations for various hydration needs.

100PLUS Original: This is the classic, lightly carbonated version containing sugar and electrolytes. It is most suitable for intense workouts or for individuals needing a rapid energy and fluid replenishment.
100PLUS Active: This non-carbonated variant is specifically designed for exercise, containing electrolytes and vitamins, but is lower in sugar than the original. It is a healthier choice for athletes to avoid bloating during physical activity.
100PLUS Zero Sugar: This version contains zero sugar and zero calories, providing electrolyte replenishment without the carbohydrate load. It is suitable for everyday hydration or for individuals seeking a low-calorie option, but does not provide the same energy boost as the other variants.

Is 100PLUS Suitable for Daily Hydration?

For most people, the answer is no, especially when considering the original formula. The added sugar and calories are unnecessary for standard, daily hydration and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. However, the 100PLUS Zero Sugar variant offers an alternative for those who enjoy the taste and want the electrolytes without the sugar. It is still not a complete replacement for water, but can be a low-calorie option for those seeking flavored hydration.

Comparison: 100PLUS Original vs. Water for Hydration


Feature	100PLUS Original	Plain Water
Carbohydrates	Contains glucose and sucrose for energy.	None.
Electrolytes	Contains sodium, potassium, and other minerals.	None, unless mineral water.
Calorie Count	Approximately 65 kcal per 325ml can.	0 calories.
Absorption Rate	Faster absorption due to isotonic formula, beneficial during/after exercise.	Slower absorption compared to isotonic solutions.
Daily Use	Not recommended due to sugar content.	Ideal for daily, general hydration.
Best for	Intense workouts, hot weather, and recovery.	All-day drinking, light activities.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

Is 100PLUS good for hydration? The answer depends on your situation. For most daily hydration needs, plain water remains the best and healthiest choice. However, for athletes or individuals engaging in prolonged, strenuous activity, an isotonic drink like 100PLUS is designed to be superior for rehydration and replenishing lost electrolytes and energy. The different product variants, such as 100PLUS Active and Zero Sugar, offer tailored options for specific scenarios, but none should replace your primary intake of water. Consider your activity level, duration, and personal health goals before deciding if an isotonic beverage is right for you. For additional context, you can read more about its formulation and use on the official 100PLUS website.

Frequently Asked Questions

While 100PLUS can replenish fluids and electrolytes, some medical opinions suggest it offers no extra benefit for conditions like fever compared to other fluids and may have high sugar content.

No. For low-to-moderate intensity or short-duration exercise, water is sufficient. 100PLUS becomes more beneficial during long, strenuous workouts to replace electrolytes and energy lost through heavy sweating.

Yes, it can aid in recovery. The combination of carbohydrates for energy and electrolytes for fluid balance helps the body recuperate after strenuous exercise.

For weight loss, the 100PLUS Zero Sugar variant is the best option. It provides electrolytes without the added calories and sugar that can hinder weight loss goals.

Both are effective, but the non-carbonated 100PLUS Active is specifically designed for workouts to prevent bloating that can occur from carbonation.

Due to its sugar content, the original 100PLUS is generally recommended for older kids and adults. Water is the primary choice for children, especially for daily hydration.

The main 100PLUS variants, including Active, are caffeine-free.