Energy gels have become a staple in the sports nutrition arsenal, promising a quick and convenient energy boost for athletes on the go. But do these pocket-sized packs truly deliver on their claims? 

This article dives into the world of energy gels, exploring what they are, how they work, and whether they are an effective fuel source for athletes. We'll examine the science behind energy gels and provide you with a powerful natural alternative.

What are Energy Gels and What Do They Do?

Energy gels are sources of concentrated carbohydrates designed to provide athletes with an energy boost during intense exercise. Thanks to their rapid onset and convenient packaging, these small, portable packs have become popular among endurance athletes, such as runners and cyclists.

Typically, energy gels contain a high concentration of simple sugars, such as glucose and fructose, which are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. The combination of these components aims to replenish depleted glycogen stores in the muscles and maintain blood sugar levels, helping to delay fatigue and improve athletic performance.

Do Energy Gels Really Work?

Energy gels are generally effective at providing a quick energy boost. The concentrated carbohydrates they contain are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, offering a temporary surge of fuel to tired muscles..

However, they often include additional ingredients like artificial sweeteners, flavours, and thickeners to improve taste and texture. This means powering your workouts with energy gels alone comes with significant drawbacks. Let’s take a quick look.

Digestive Discomfort

One of the most common complaints about energy gels is their potential to cause digestive upset. They can have this impact due to their high carbohydrate and sugar levels, which can trigger the digestive system. This discomfort can manifest in various ways, including:

• Stomach cramps: The high concentration of sugars in energy gels can irritate the stomach lining, leading to painful cramps.
  
  
• Bloating and gas: The rapid influx of carbohydrates can disrupt the digestive system, causing uncomfortable bloating and gas.
  
  
• Nausea: Some individuals find the texture or taste of energy gels unpleasant, triggering nausea.
  
  
• Diarrhoea: In some cases, the excessive sugar levels in energy gels can lead to diarrhoea.

Sugar Crashes

The rapid surge of energy provided by energy gels is often followed by a significant drop, commonly known as a sugar crash. This occurs due to the body's response to the sudden influx of glucose. The pancreas releases insulin to process the sugar, leading to a sharp decrease in blood sugar levels once the gel's effects wear off. Symptoms of a sugar crash include:

• Fatigue
• Irritability and mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Hunger

What's really in an Energy Gel? Decoding the Label

The convenience and portability of energy gels have made them a popular choice for athletes, but to know the real impact of energy gels on your body, taking a closer look at the ingredients is essential.

Artificial Sweeteners

Sugar substitutes are often used to keep energy gels low in calories and appeal to athletes seeking sugar-free options. However, studies have shown that some popular artificial sweeteners, like sucralose and aspartame, can cause a range of potential health concerns, including digestive issues, headaches, and even an increased risk of certain cancers.

Mystery Ingredients

Some energy gels ingredient lists include vague terms like "natural flavours" or "proprietary blend", often masking a multitude of undisclosed ingredients. These hidden components could include artificial flavours, thickeners, preservatives, or even additional sugars.

Introducing a Better Way: The All-Natural Performance Drink

Tired of the sugar highs and digestive distress caused by traditional energy gels? It's time to discover a superior alternative. Perple's all-natural Endurance Mix drink offers a revolutionary approach to fuelling your athletic endeavours.

This mix provides sustained power through a carefully balanced blend of carbohydrates, vegan BCAAs, and essential electrolytes. This unique combination ensures a steady supply of energy to your muscles, without the dreaded sugar crashes or digestive discomfort. Explore our range of all-natural performance-boosting drinks.