LVL: The First Wearable Hydration Monitor

Hydration is an often neglected aspect of health and fitness. There are very few functions of the human body that do not suffer when dehydrated. Athletic performance in particular is jeopardized with poor hydration, and will result in slower reaction times and less endurance. As well, cognitive function slows without proper hydration. To compound this issue, sleep quality will also suffer.

One of the main issues when it comes to hydration is knowing when to drink and how much. Even elite athletes often labor under the assumption that thirst is the only indicator of when to drink. However, doctors have stated that the high carbohydrate content of today’s diet often diminishes the thirst drive even when the body requires water. This leaves many people in a chronic state of dehydration.

The LVL Band by BSX aims to resolve these issues by producing a stylish, light, and technologically advanced watch that is able to tell time while monitoring hydration levels.

BSX

Interestingly, the history of the LVL band began with its CEO, Dustin Freckleton, suffering a stroke because of dehydration. This motivated him to create a portable and sleek hydration monitor to ensure a person’s safety even while exercising. BSX is a company whose sole focus is enhancing the health and performance of individuals (especially athletes) through monitoring hydration and other body functions.

The Team

• Dustin Freckleton, MD is a founder and CEO of BSX.
• Nithin Rajan is a founder and president of BSX.

These two individuals lead the team, which is composed of 23 highly qualified individuals with varied backgrounds. This means that the LVL band has been carefully constructed in every aspect, from its technology to its comfortable design. Most of the team are active individuals who use their background with athletics to produce a device that functions smoothly even during rigorous exercise.

Timeline

The history of the LVL hydration monitor dates back to the founding of BSX in February of 2012, as all of the technology created since this point has led to the LVL band. With research taking place throughout 2013, BSX released BSXinsight in 2014, a similar product to the LVL.

In 2016, BSX developed improved algorithms and completed hundreds of clinical tests to enhance hydration monitoring. With the Kickstarter funding beginning in September, the LVL prototypes will be developed in early 2017. Shipping is expected to occur in June and July of 2017. This means the entire development process for LVL has occurred in roughly a year and a half, although the entire history of the company has led to this product.

The incredible quality of LVL has been recognized on Kickstarter. LVL has far surpassed its $50 000, raising over $950 000. These funds have been raised by over 6000 backers.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lactate-threshold/lvl-the-first-wearable-hydration-monitor?ref=category_popular

What it Does

Measurements

The LVL band monitors hydration levels, heart rate, caloric output, sleep metrics, and activity (steps and distance). Remarkably, it is not only able to measure this wide variety of variables, it does so with greater accuracy than other technologies.

Most importantly, LVL uses red light technology to provide an accurate measure of hydration levels. This involves shining red light into the body to see deeper than the green light that is commonly used. Studies have shown this to be up to 10 times more accurate.

It is also a better way to measure heart rate. The technology of the LVL allows it to be within 2.7 beats per minute, which is much more accurate than other devices which tend to be within 14 beats per minute.

In addition, it tracks sweat and activity levels. Sleep metrics are also gathered.

Suggestions

LVL uses these measurements to help individuals maximize their health and performance. By not only tracking current hydration levels but also how taxing an activity is, the band is able to recommend specific times and amounts of water to drink.

For example, the band might suggest drinking 12 ounces of water before bed to ensure a great sleep, or drinking 15 ounces before a morning workout to get the best results.

Convenience

LVL does not sacrifice usability for technology. It is able to provide accurate measurements while being simple to use and very stylish. Its instructions are clear and tailored to different activities like before workouts, during workouts, and before sleeping.

It also features both metric and standard measurements, and displays them on a clear OLED screen. While it can stream measurements to mobile devices, it has its own storage.

It is also water resistant, so it can be worn while showering or swimming.

Connectivity

As stated above, the LVL is able to connect to mobile devices through Bluetooth. It features a free app that automatically connects when in range, and tracks measurements. It is able to connect to both iOS and Android devices.

Design

One of the best features of LVL is that it is stylish as well as functional. With silicone and black or brown leather bands, it is a sleek and attractive band. It has different face settings for displaying the time as well as measurements.

Battery

Individuals will get the greatest benefit from health metrics if they are tracked continuously to provide a better picture of the body’s function. For this reason, LVL’s battery is able to last for 4 days of continuous use. It is able to charge in only 2 hours.

Price

For early purchases on Kickstarter, the LVL can be had for only $99. For later purchases, the full price will be an estimated $199.

Size

• 17 mm by 45 mm
• 50 grams
• 12 mm by 24 mm screen

Battery

• Battery type: lithium ion
• Charger: USB

Technology

• Wireless: Bluetooth
• Compatibility: iOS and Android
• Near Infrared red light technology

Conclusion

This product has fantastic value for its price. It is perfect for anyone who wants to optimize health, recovery, mood, cognitive function, and athletic performance. For elite athletes and anyone concerned with health and fitness, it is a valuable asset.

The most impressive aspect of this product is how it balances cutting edge technology with a sleek, functional design. Buyers do not have to compromise when investing in an LVL hydration monitor.