The Sweetener in Flavored Re-Lyte: Stevia Leaf Extract
For those who prefer a touch of sweetness in their hydration, Re-Lyte uses a specific type of stevia leaf extract called rebaudioside A to sweeten its flavored products. This choice is intentional and based on extensive research to find a natural, effective alternative to artificial and sugary options.
Why Stevia Was Chosen
When developing their flavored mixes, the team at Redmond sought a sweetener that would meet their high standards for clean ingredients while balancing the natural salty taste from their Real Salt. They established a list of prerequisites for their sweetener choice, ultimately leading them to stevia leaf extract:
- Natural Source: Stevia is derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant.
- Low-to-Zero Calories and Carbs: It provides sweetness without affecting blood sugar levels, making it suitable for keto, paleo, and fasting protocols.
- Flavor Profile: They specifically chose rebaudioside A, a less bitter form of stevia leaf extract, to ensure a pleasant, subtle, salty-sweet taste.
The Role of Stevia in Re-Lyte's Taste
The sweetness from stevia is carefully balanced with the unrefined Real Salt and natural fruit flavors. This creates a more subdued, less cloying sweetness compared to mainstream sports drinks that are often loaded with processed sugars or artificial alternatives. The concentration of stevia is minimal, making up less than 2% of a serving, but it is highly potent, providing the necessary flavor without overwhelming the blend.
Unflavored Options for a Sweetener-Free Experience
Recognizing that some individuals prefer no sweetness at all, Re-Lyte offers unflavored versions of its hydration mix and electrolyte capsules. These products are completely free of stevia leaf extract and other sweeteners, allowing for a pure, electrolyte-only supplement. This is an ideal option for those who have a sensitivity to stevia, are strict about avoiding all flavor additives, or prefer to control the taste by adding their own natural flavoring.
Comparison: Re-Lyte vs. Other Hydration Mixes
Many electrolyte and sports drinks on the market rely on a variety of sweeteners. The table below highlights how Re-Lyte's approach using stevia compares to common alternatives found in other popular hydration mixes.
| Feature | Re-Lyte Flavored Mixes | Traditional Sports Drinks | Other Natural Electrolyte Mixes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | Stevia leaf extract (Rebaudioside A) | Sugar (e.g., Sucrose, Dextrose) or high-fructose corn syrup | Stevia, Monk Fruit, or Erythritol |
| Calories | 0 calories per serving | Often high, due to sugar content | Generally zero-calorie |
| Added Sugars | No added sugar, minimal natural sugar (<1g) from coconut water powder | High levels of added sugars | Typically no added sugar |
| Primary Electrolyte Source | Redmond Real Salt and specific mineral forms | Often refined white salt | Varies by brand (e.g., Himalayan pink salt, sea salt) |
| Taste Profile | Subtle salty-sweet | Very sweet, often artificial-tasting | Varies widely based on brand and sweetener |
Beyond the Sweetness: Re-Lyte's Full Ingredient Profile
While the sweetener is an important consideration, it's just one part of the overall formula. Re-Lyte's primary strength lies in its clean, comprehensive electrolyte blend. The product is built around Redmond Real Salt, an unrefined ancient sea salt mined in Utah that provides over 60 trace minerals. In addition to the salt and stevia, the flavored mixes contain natural flavors, non-GMO citric acid, and coconut water powder. They are also formulated with key electrolytes such as sodium, potassium citrate, and a blend of magnesium malate and glycinate for enhanced absorption and benefit.
For those interested in a deeper dive into the company's reasoning for including stevia, an informative blog post can be found on their website Redmond Life's detailed explanation on Stevia's inclusion can be found here..
Conclusion: A Clean and Considered Approach
In summary, the sweetener in Re-Lyte is stevia leaf extract, a choice that aligns with the brand's commitment to providing a clean, effective, and natural hydration mix. By opting for stevia, Redmond offers a zero-calorie, zero-sugar solution that appeals to health-conscious consumers, including those on keto and fasting diets. The availability of unflavored products ensures that individuals who prefer a completely unsweetened drink have a suitable option. This considered approach to ingredients sets Re-Lyte apart in a market often dominated by sugary sports drinks and artificial additives.
