sports hydration gel for running energy gels have become a popular form of nutrition for long distance athletes over the past couple of decades. Gels provide a concentrated source of carbohydrates that can be easily consumed while training. The thick, syrupy consistency allows the nutrients to pass through the stomach and be digested quickly. Competitors use gels as a way to replenish glycogen stores and prevent hitting “the wall” during competitions. Here is an overview of how sports gels work and who may benefit from using them.
Carbohydrate Content
Sports gels contain between 20-40 grams of carbohydrates per serving, typically in the form of maltodextrin. Some gels use fruit sugar as well. The high carb concentration provides a rapid source of energy to working muscles. Most gels have a consistency like honey. This enables the nutrients to pass through the stomach faster than food. A serving of gel nourishes like a sports drink, but in a more compact form.
Electrolytes
In addition to carbs, most gels also contain important electrolytes like salt and potassium. These minerals are lost in sweat during strenuous exercise. Replenishing electrolytes helps regulate fluid levels in the body and prevent painful muscle cramps. The sodium also helps with uptake of the sugars. Electrolyte content varies between products, so athletes should compare nutrition labels. Caffeine is also commonly added to gels for an extra jolt of energy.
When to Use Sports Gels
Endurance athletes mainly utilize gels during extended training or events lasting 60 minutes or more. Popular uses include:
- Marathon or half marathon races
- Century or half century bike rides
- Triathlon competitions
- Soccer, hockey, lacrosse games
- Hiking or backpacking excursions
Gels provide rapid fuel for the glycogen burning phase of activity. Most athletes consume one gel serving every 30-45 minutes of sustained high intensity exercise. Proper pacing of gel intake helps maintain blood sugar levels. Overconsumption may cause GI distress. Careful use prevents energy crashes.
Benefits of Gels
Sports gels offer several advantages over other forms of nutrition like energy bars, chews and sports drinks. Benefits include:
- Portability – Gel pouches are compact and easy to carry while running. Minimal packaging also produces less waste.
- Rapid absorption – The thick liquid consistency gets digested quickly relative to solids. Provides a quick energy boost.
- Precise dosing – With each pouch containing one serving, gels offer easy to manage consumption while exercising. Difficult to over-consume.
- Variety – Gels come in a wide array of varieties like fruit, chocolate, vanilla and more. Athletes can pick pleasing tastes.
- Caffeine options – Many gels contain stimulants for an extra boost. Provides a physical and mental edge.
Potential Drawbacks
While generally safe and useful when used correctly, sports gels do come with some potential drawbacks including:
- Expensive – Gels cost significantly more than sports drinks per serving. The costs can add up over many uses.
- GI distress – Consuming too many gels can cause cramps due to the high carbohydrate dose. Proper dosing is key.
- Sugar content – The carb concentration leads to a high glycemic index. Diabetics need to monitor blood sugar when using gels.
- Dental health – The sugary consistency can damage tooth enamel over time. Proper oral hygiene is recommended after use.
- Limited calories – Gels only provide carbs. Athletes also need protein and fat for complete sports nutrition.
- Not thirst quenching – Gels hydrate via sugars and electrolytes but do not satisfy thirst like water or sports drinks.
Summary
While not necessarily recommended for everyday use, sports gels can provide a helpful source of mid-activity fuel for endurance athletes. Proper utilization can help maintain energy levels and stamina during prolonged training and events. Athletes should test different brands and flavors during training to determine which gels work best for their needs.