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Carbohydrate gel From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Energy gels are edible carbohydrate gels that provide energy for exercise and promote recovery,[1] commonly used in endurance events such as running, cycling, and triathlons. Energy gels are also referred to as endurance gels, sports gels, nutritional gels, and carbohydrate gels.[1]
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Energy gels are packaged in small, single-serve plastic packets. Each packet has a strip with a small notch at the top that can be peeled off to reveal an opening through which the gel can be consumed. One-handed operation is often adopted by users to facilitate continuous exercise performance.
The size content of energy gels is commonly 1.2 oz (32g), with a range from 1 oz to 1.5 oz packets. The portable packaging is designed to facilitate uninterrupted training or performance conditions.[2] Common ingredients include water, maltodextrin, fructose, and various micronutrients, preservatives, and flavor compounds or caffeine.[2]
Sports energy gels emerged in the United Kingdom in 1986 as a "convenient, prewrapped, portable" way to deliver carbohydrates during endurance events.[3] Gels have a gooey texture and are sometimes referred to as "goo" generically.[4][5] The gel Leppin Squeezy was distributed at the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon in 1988. Once considered a "cult product in clear packaging", energy gel products are now marketed in fancy packaging[6] and come in a variety of flavors.[3] The energy gel market grew during the 1990s, as professional athletes began endorsing products. Manufacturers generally encourage the consumption of multiple packets, with water, when participating in endurance events.[3]
Energy gels are promoted to individuals seeking a boost from caffeine and carbohydrates during exercise performance.[7][8] The recommended use of an energy gel is 15 minutes before starting and 30–45 minutes after starting the endurance exercise.[1]
Energy gels have varied taste by addition of flavor ingredients added during manufacturing, such as menthol and chai latte.[9][10]
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