HVMN reviews: Is Ketone-IQ a longevity investment or an overhyped supplement?

Performance-enhancing supplements are one of the most popular trends in the biohacking scene. HVMN’s Ketone-IQ products are being marketed as “revolutionary” supplements that can improve your cognition, prevent performance plateaus, and even promote longevity by supporting metabolic health.

What’s immediately appealing about HVMN products is that they promise a clean energy source — one of the reasons why the company’s Ketone-IQ range is heavily promoted by endurance athletes, as well as many health and wellness influencers. That said, these products come with a premium price tag and compete in a market with numerous similar supplements, so it’s worth evaluating if Ketone-IQ delivers real results.

Our team of health experts have looked into HVMN reviews, formulations, and other service aspects of the brand to give you a balanced perspective on the potential benefits, efficacy, and downsides of Ketone-IQ.

HVMN Ketone-IQ: A quick overview

While HVMN may be the most recognizable name for Ketone-IQ, the company was originally founded as Nootrobox. It was rebranded to HVMN (or H.V.M.N.), which stands for Health Via Modern Nutrition, after an appearance on Shark Tank in 2016. The company was rebranded again in 2024, this time taking on the name of Ketone-IQ, its flagship ketone range.

Co-founder Michael Brandt conceptualized the Ketone-IQ drink as a part of his performance optimization strategy for marathon running. In long-distance running, the human body uses several energy sources, one of the more efficient and direct ones being ketones.

Brandt’s goal was to offer ketones in a simpler delivery format via drinks without the need for complex and inefficient delivery methods like pills and powders. The initial version of his product was called H.V.M.N. Ketone 1.0.

The credibility of the drinkable ketone saw a significant boost when the company landed a contract with the U.S. Department of Defense in 2019 to produce a ketone drink at scale to test whether exogenous ketones can help improve special forces performance. However, the Ketone-IQ product was launched for public use only in January 2022.

Source: Ketone-IQ

Bonus reads — Nootropics are another popular supplement for performance enhancement. Here are our reviews of four popular brands:

• Thesis nootropics 

• Limitless Life 

• Onnit 

• CosmicNootropic

The science behind Ketone-IQ supplements

Ketones are molecules our bodies produce when we are low on carbohydrates and need to use fats as fuel. Our body produces three types of ketones — beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), acetoacetate (AcAc), and acetone, although in unequal amounts.

To organically achieve a state of ketosis, which is defined as having an elevated amount of ketones in your blood (more than 0.5 mM per liter), you need to either follow a ketogenic diet or do a prolonged fast. This can be challenging for some individuals due to factors like stress, hormonal fluctuations, and underlying medical conditions. 

The idea behind Ketone-IQ supplements is to consume synthesized exogenous ketones (ketones from an external source) to induce the ketosis effect. This makes it easy for your body to adapt to and sustain a keto-friendly lifestyle. Ketone-IQ can be perceived as beneficial for those who struggle with following a restrictive diet, fasting for an extended period, or performing cognitively and physically demanding tasks.

Another benefit of the product is that it can be a cleaner energy source for your body that can be used by both your brain and muscles, which supports athletic performance and cognitive capacity. The perception of “clean” comes from the fact that ketones provide steady energy without spikes and dips in blood sugar levels, which is often the case when the body relies on carbohydrates for energy.

Source: Ron Lach

HVMN Ketone-IQ review: 5 aspects to consider

While the science behind ketone supplements looks good in theory, there are not enough comprehensive and diverse studies to support the benefits of such products or pinpoint any long-term side effects. Many influencers and elite athletes push these supplements, but a large section of users have remained skeptical, considering such products as snake oil with no real nutritional value.

To give you an informed overview of HVMN’s Ketone-IQ, we’ll look at five essential aspects of the product:

1. Ketone formulation and ingredients

2. Palatability

3. Packaging and serving options

4. Efficacy

5. Pricing 

1. Ketone formulation and ingredients

You’ll find many ketone formulations in the supplement market — all with different absorption and bioavailability levels. Some examples include:

• Ketone salts

• Ketone esters

• Powdered or liquid supplement blends with ketones

Most of the latest Ketone-IQ products come in the diol formulation. They are pure BHB ketones chemically bonded to a diol group, which are deemed to have a simpler structure than ketone salts and enable a more stable absorption. The company claims that this formulation is the most naturally long-lasting version that helps sustain ketone levels for several hours. If you’re looking for numbers, the formulation may:

• Get your blood ketones above 1.0 mmol/L within the 30–60 minute mark

• Prevent any adverse spike (by keeping blood ketones under 2.5 mmol/L)

Source: Ketone-IQ

Ketone-IQ in the diol formulation is better for steady energy levels than salt and ester formations. Unfortunately, we could not find any scientific study with samples large enough to support this theory.

That said, we appreciate the company's transparent ingredient list across all its products, which can help you detect potential allergens. Ketone-IQ products are typically vegan and free of sugar, salts, and gluten.

Source: Ketone-IQ

Tip 💡

While there may not be enough studies to support ketone supplementation, there is a more direct way to optimize your health and nutrition plan — through genetic testing.

Understanding your unique genetic profile can help you decode your individual supplementation needs better. For instance, you can order a Nucleus whole-genome DNA health test to get a complete picture of how your DNA and lifestyle factors impact your mental and physical health, energy levels, and dietary patterns, among other things.

Unlike most other DNA platforms, Nucleus analyzes ~100% of your DNA to detect common and rare genetic variants that should inform your approach to health, exercise, and nutrition. That way, you can be in a better position to identify more sustained and personal wellness decisions for you and your family.

2. Palatability

The palatability of ketones has always been a matter of concern, as the substance has a naturally bitter flavor profile that often has to be masked with artificial sweeteners or flavors.

After three years of research and development, the Ketone-IQ team brought the manufacturing costs down and made the drink more palatable, but many users still find the taste off-putting.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/Ultramarathon/comments/17mgi3d/comment/k7kwdms/)(280)

However, opinions vary in terms of how well users can tolerate the taste of this ketone drink. Some people find it easier to consume the concoction in one shot, while others have to wash it down with water or mix it with flavored electrolyte drinks. 

Ketone-IQ also seems to be an acquired taste. Most people gradually get accustomed to it after noticing positive associations with increased performance.

Currently, the company offers two flavor options: peach and green apple.

3. Packaging and serving options

The company offers different flavors and consumption formats for Ketone-IQ — with and without caffeine. As of February 2025, you get three types of packaging options:

1. Bottles that contain 80 g of ketones per bottle (8 servings)

2. Shots that contain:

   1. either 10 g of ketones per shot (1 serving)

   2. or 5 g of ketones per shot with 100 mg of caffeine (1 serving)

3. Pocket-shaped pouches that contain 10 g of ketones per pouch (1 serving)

Bottles tend to work for users who intend to drink it at home before workouts or cognitive tasks. Shots are a convenient option to carry throughout the day for a little pick-me-up if you tend to experience energy slips. Pouches also work the same but can be easier to pack for endurance races.

Source: Ketone-IQ

4. Efficacy

The effectiveness of HVMN’s Ketone-IQ is a potentially gray area as far as scientific validity is concerned. While some studies confirm ketones are a legitimate energy source, there is not much evidence to support how safe these supplements are or how they impact other health aspects, like metabolism and kidney function, in the long run.

Some users have also pointed out how many studies in favor of ketones are conducted by companies that manufacture ketone supplements or are about a particular form of ketones (e.g., ester), which undermines the credibility of the research available.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/Velo/comments/10jhx39/comment/j5kwwxj/)(260)

That said, we looked at user opinions to see how Ketone-IQ supports cognition, athletic performance, and diet.

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Cognition

HVMN Ketone-IQ reviews often mention a boost in cognitive performance, which isn’t surprising considering that ketones fuel the brain. For example, Robert Orion Sikes, the host of the Keto Savage podcast, found that taking around 30 ml of Ketone-IQ about 20 minutes before starting to record a new episode helped him recall information faster, be more articulate, and have a better conversation with his guest. 

This feedback seems aligned with common reports of increased mental clarity, improved ability to focus, and calm energy. Some users value that they can get cognitive benefits while avoiding the jitteriness that accompanies caffeine use. There are also users who notice no cognitive benefits with the supplement.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/HubermanLab/comments/za9rzx/comment/jdjgpwo/)

Athletic performance

HVMN Ketone-IQ reviews also mention improved athletic performance, especially in endurance sports like cycling. However, since the company appears to be sponsoring many influencers in that space, it’s difficult to tell what’s real and what’s a marketing push.

There’s research that supports the positive impact of ketones in endurance events that require sustained effort for hours or even days. Many performance enthusiasts have vetted that Ketone-IQ helps them persevere through training. However, taking the supplement without having enough activity on your plate can leave you restless.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/ultrarunning/comments/19dsj2v/comment/m75tj83/)(420)

Source: Ketone-IQ

Many casual endurance sports enthusiasts seem skeptical about the supposed benefits of Ketone-IQ, though, considering them marginal at best.

Diet

Ketone-IQ may enable you to enjoy some of the health benefits associated with ketosis without a ketogenic diet or extensive fasts. Exogenous ketones are known to suppress appetite, which can be conducive to weight loss. 

For users transitioning to the ketogenic diet, supplementing with exogenous ketones can help make the transition from high-carb to low-carb eating smoother and reduce the unpleasant “keto flu” symptoms. 

Finally, if you are working on improving your fasting capacity amidst a hectic schedule, the supplement can help you maintain your cognition levels in a fasted state by fuelling your brain. 

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/cycling/comments/1eh4hxq/comment/lfx6u6e/)

5. Price-to-value

The dominant opinion in the nutrition space is that Ketone-IQ is an expensive supplement. A pack of 24 servings costs $120 as a one-off purchase or $108/month with a subscription. Shipping within the United States is free, and at the time of writing, the product is not available for international buyers. 

An overview of Ketone-IQ products:

| Product              | Quantity                 | Ketones          | Caffeine        | Purchase price          | Subscription price |
| -------------------- | ------------------------ | ---------------- | --------------- | ----------------------- | ------------------ |
| Classic pouch        | 24 pouches = 24 servings | 10 g per pouch   | None            | $120                    | $108/month         |
| Classic <br>multiserving | 3 bottles = 24 servings  | 10 g per serving | None            | $120                    | $108/month         |
| Classic shot         | 24 shots = 24 servings   | 10 g per shot    | None            | $120                    | $108/month         |
| Caffeine shot        | 24 shots = 24 servings   | 5 g per shot     | 100 mg per shot | $120                    | $108/month

You can pause, adjust, or cancel your subscription at any time, and the company does provide a 60-day money-back guarantee — but many users consider the products too expensive for the debatable or limited benefits they provide.

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/cycling/comments/1eh4hxq/comment/lfwtncz/)(270)

HVMN Ketone-IQ review: Should you try this ketone supplement?

Source: Ketone-IQ

Ketone supplements like Ketone-IQ might have some value, but they’re not a replacement for a proper sleep, nutrition, and workout regimen. If these basics are not in place for you, it’s probably best to start here to truly improve your physical and mental performance.

As far as trying out ketones is concerned, it’s still a largely unexplored space due to the lack of reliable scientific evidence. We’re yet to know if the law of diminishing returns can apply in the case your body adapts to the presence of ketone supplements and experiences a decline in performance and mental clarity.

Committing to such products can also be demanding and unsustainable, both financially and physiologically. If you consider trying, it’s best to get a personalized opinion from your physician first.

Another important step to take before trying any new supplement is to get a DNA-informed health profile with Nucleus.

Nucleus is a whole-genome DNA platform that uses your entire DNA profile to map out your various health risks, genetic predispositions, hereditary carriers, and more. Nucleus’ all-in-one health test can detect both common and unique genetic triggers that impact your diet and health, guiding you toward genetics-informed choices for health, weight, and performance management.

Nucleus: Optimize your performance from the ground up

Your genome is the blueprint that makes you who you are — it affects your circadian rhythm, nutritional needs, and athletic potential and highlights your risk of developing various diseases and nutrition deficiencies. Nucleus is one of the few genetic testing platforms that uses ~100% of your genome to analyze your disease risks and traits deeply.

The platform also takes your lifestyle factors, such as smoking habits and cholesterol levels, into consideration to provide highly personalized reports about different health aspects, including:

• Cardiovascular health

• Mental health

• Energy and focus

• Food and diet

• Autoimmune conditions

• Neurological health

Nucleus also stands out in the market because it is a physician-approved, clinical-grade DNA platform that can guarantee 99.9% accuracy in analyses.

You can use your reports to get consultations from physicians, nutritionists, genetic counselors, and other specialists and determine what supplements or performance-boosting strategies you should focus on. The platform can also connect you to board-certified physicians within its partner SteadyMD network.

What’s in your Nucleus reports?

With Nucleus, you get all available reports on the platform at a single price point. That includes:

1. Health reports with risk scores for 800+ conditions, including type-2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, common and rare cancers, and neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease

2. Trait reports for aspects such as seasonal allergies, severe acne, male-pattern baldness, strength, intelligence, and longevity

3. Your raw whole-genome genetic data in a .vcf (VCF) file. You can use free tools like Genetic Genie to explore potential genetic variants that impact your metabolism, nutrition, etc.

Nucleus is HIPAA-compliant and only works with CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited labs to ensure the privacy and integrity of your data. The testing is done on U.S. machines, and all samples are guaranteed to be destroyed within 60 days of being received by the lab.

How to order Nucleus Premium

You can order Nucleus directly from the website. Here’s how to get started:

1. Sign up for Nucleus Premium

2. Provide your personal information

3. Order your DNA kit (FSA/HSA eligible)

Once you receive the kit, follow the instructions to provide your samples. You’ll receive your DNA reports online within 6–8 weeks of sending your cheek swabs.

At $399, Nucleus is the most affordable whole-genome solution in the U.S. You can also opt for a membership that allows you to access updated reports based on new genetic research or a shift in your lifestyle factors.

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Featured image source: @hvmn via X