Energy gels - how to use and who should use them?

What are energy gels?

This is a distinctive group of dietary supplements which, as the name suggests, are designed to quickly replenish energy in cases of increasing levels of fatigue. Speed is of key importance here. Manufacturers of energy gels use a mix of simple and complex carbohydrates in their products (in most cases a combination of optimal portions of fructose and maltodextrin). Thanks to that, the body receives adequate support to resynthesise glycogen, which is essential fuel for intensively working muscles, in a short period of time. What's more, carbohydrates are also used by the nervous system.

High-quality energy gels also contain a number of valuable additives that provide more beneficial effects. These most often include minerals from the group of electrolytes (magnesium, potassium, sodium), vitamins (especially from the B group), branched-chain amino acids, taurine and stimulating ingredients (e.g. caffeine, guarana).

How to use energy gels?

Products known as energy gels are extremely easy to use! Most of them come in small and handy plastic tubes. Simply tear open the packaging and squeeze the contents directly into your mouth. The supplements are recommended for use primarily during physical activity and at regular intervals. They help maintain optimal energy levels.

Who should use energy gels?

The use of energy gels is recommended primarily for physically active people. Recreational exercise and professional sports training require exercising people to maintain the necessary energy to function properly. Carbohydrate-based gels are recommended for prolonged and exhausting training sessions, especially those of a performance nature. These products are mainly used by long-distance runners, cyclists and triathletes. However, nothing prevents the use of energy gels for team games.

Which energy gels are worth considering?

Olimp Sport Nutrition products prove to be the best choice as they are prepared from high quality ingredients which are tested in a modern Research and Development Centre of the Olimp Laboratories pharmaceutical company. Apart from a portion of valuable carbohydrates, Olimp Fire Start Energy Gel + BCAA and Olimp Fire Start Energy Gel + Caffeine contain valuable additives:

• Olimp Fire Start Energy Gel + BCAA – a gel supplemented with a complex of branched-chain essential amino acids (BCAA)
• Olimp Fire Start Energy Gel + Caffeine – a gel enriched with guarana seed extract, which is standardised at 50% natural caffeine content