How Do Energy Gels Work? They are gels made of sugar and electrolytes, which are critical for maintaining energy levels as you exert yourself. Here’s what you need to know.
If you exert yourself for long periods, you need to give your body everything it requires to function correctly; this is where energy gels come in handy.
Energy gels are designed to give your body plenty of sugar and electrolytes to power your muscles. If you run a marathon, cycle for hours on end, or swim across a lake, you will have enough energy to complete the race or workout.
Keep reading to learn more about energy gels and why you should consider using them to boost athletic performance.
Contents
- 1 The Nutrients In Energy Gels
- 2 Do Energy Gels Contain Caffeine?
- 3 The Best Time To Use Energy Gels
- 4 How Long Do The Effects Of Energy Gels Last?
- 5 Energy Gels Health Considerations
- 6 Do Energy Gels Taste Good?
- 7 Are Energy Gels Worth It?
- 8 Final Word On How Do Energy Gels Work
- 9 FAQs On How Do Energy Gels Work?
The Nutrients In Energy Gels
Although every energy gel is different, they usually have similar ingredients. Energy gels typically contain a mixture of carbohydrates and electrolytes.
Carbohydrates come in the form of simple sugars. The exact carb content varies, but simple sugars help to give your muscles a spike of energy.
Energy gels may contain other ingredients that are important for your muscles. For example, electrolytes can prevent you from cramping up. You should take a look at the nutrition label before you buy them.
You’ll also love these easy energy smoothies for running.
Do Energy Gels Contain Caffeine?
Some energy gels contain caffeine. You should take a look at the ingredient list before purchasing.
Many people drink caffeine in the morning to wake up; caffeine can even help your workout performance by widening your blood vessels. This could make it easier for your body to deliver oxygen and nutrients to muscles.
Of course, caffeine can also keep you awake at night, so you may not want to consume energy gels with caffeine in the afternoon or evening.
The Best Time To Use Energy Gels
The best time to use energy gels depends on the type of exercise you are doing and how tired you feel. If you are running a sprint, you might not need energy gels during your run, but if you are running a marathon, you might need to consume energy gels several times during the race.
Everyone metabolizes energy gels differently, but most people feel their effects within minutes. You need to think carefully about how your athletic performance will change during the race to determine the best time to take energy gels.
How Long Do The Effects Of Energy Gels Last?
How long the effects last depends on how much you take. In general, you should feel the impact of an energy gel for approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The exact time will depend on your heart rate, how fast you blow through your nutrients, and your metabolism.
If you are actively exercising, you should be careful not to take too many energy gels at once. Otherwise, you may find yourself running to the bathroom. This is not the case with everyone, but some people are sensitive to sugars and sweeteners.
Energy Gels Health Considerations
Even though energy gels may help you improve your athletic performance, most people would not describe them as healthy. They contain a lot of sugar. They can help your athletic performance, but they do not have any long-term nutritional benefits.
Unless you are exercising, you should stay away from energy gels. Otherwise, energy gels simply give your body unnecessary sugar, which can convert to fat if unused by the body.
Do Energy Gels Taste Good?
Energy gels come in various flavors, so you should be able to find some you like. Most energy gels consist of sugars and fruit flavoring.
If you like fruit and sweet things, you should enjoy the taste. You may want to try multiple flavors before finding some you like the most.
Are Energy Gels Worth It?
Energy gels are worth it if you are an endurance athlete. If you cycle, swim or run for multiple miles and hours at a time, then you need to give your body a steady supply of nutrition. This includes sugar and electrolytes; energy gels can provide that for you.
If you do not exercise regularly, you should not consume energy gels often.
Final Word On How Do Energy Gels Work
Due to their high sugar content, energy gels give you a quick jolt of energy during strenuous activity.
FAQs On How Do Energy Gels Work?
Are There Any Health Benefits To Energy Gels?
Aside from providing almost immediate fuel during activity, energy gels do not have any additional health benefits.
Is The Sugar In Energy Gels Bad For You?
If you consume energy gels during prolonged physical activity, you shouldn’t need to worry because the body should use it for immediate energy – rather than converting it to fat.
