Alternative Energy: Do Energy Gels and Supplements Really Work?

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A Growing Demand for Sports Nutrition and Energy Supplements
The Real Deal on Energy Supplements
Shake It Up: Protein Shakes and Postexercise Supplements
Anatomy of an Energy Gel: What's Really in It?

Anatomy of an Energy Gel: What's Really in It?

GU, the world's first energy gel, is one of the most popular sports supplements for endurance athletes. But what's really in it? Here, a decoder to some of the ingredients.

Fructose

Fruit sugar that gives you an energy kick

Maltodextrin

Carbs that provide quickly digestible energy to muscles

Potassium Citrate, Sodium Citrate, and Citric Acid

Citrates that neutralize performance-sapping acid buildup in muscles and help turn carbs into energy

Histidine

Amino acid that works alongside citrates; acts as a buffer against lactic acid buildup

Ginger

A natural stomach soother

Caffeine

Stimulant shown to increase endurance performance

Leucine, Valine, and Isoleucine

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) that provide fuel and lessen fatigue by limiting the central nervous system's production of serotonin

Vitamins C and E

Antioxidants that help protect muscles from free radicals

Chamomile

Natural anti-inflammatory

Calcium Carbonate

Mineral that helps promote healthy, strong bones

Find energy drinks and supplements to boost your workout! >>

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, October 2009.

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tjalso wrote:

I find energy supplements work for me. At least Go Heads Up is awesome for keeping my energy up through the day and it's all natural stuff. Plus,I find it's a great supplement to boost my energy before a workout. http://www.appliedhealthstore.com/p-219-go-heads-up.aspx

12/28/2011 04:51:59 PM Report Abuse

maxwilson1 wrote:

energy gels are a great way to fuel and boost your workout when you can't carry a sports drink. I found a good alternative to the pasty messy main stream products. Max Energy liquid gel, liquidy and in a clean, recycleable, ready to use pocket flask. And no peanut, gluten, sugar or animal products. Hard to find in stores but go to http://www.endurancemaxenergy.com

12/17/2011 09:07:07 PM Report Abuse

dawnrenee7 wrote:

I know that they do - you can tell such a difference with them! I am actually now a distributor for Advocare. www.advocare.com/10098299 I use Spark which is a great energy drink, no sugar and full of vitamins. Only has enough caffeine for one cup of coffee! It's great stuff and a bunch of girls at my gym use it. My mom and Aunt swear by it! I am really excited about using it. I have purchased other items at different locations but this one has proven to be the best so far!

10/14/2010 08:23:56 AM Report Abuse

madolynn1 wrote:

I KNOW that the Melaleuca Protein Shakes, Bars, and Access Energy Bars work - and it's backed by a study, and approved by Olympic athletes that used them in 2008....I definitely can go 2x as long with my Access bar, not to mention the metabolism boost helps me burn more calories!

8/12/2010 12:53:45 PM Report Abuse

vejones3543515 wrote:

I totally agree with the empty promises that are out there. Where can one go to find out products that truly have valid scientific and clinical research to back up their promises?

8/12/2010 11:42:33 AM Report Abuse