GUs, Gels or beans - any suggestions? [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

dsnyfan21

09-19-2008, 06:58 PM

Hello Neighbor here - just south of you.

I just started with the sports beans this summer due to training for the DL half during the hot summer months down here. They are a electrolyte replacement. I only used water or smartwater in my pack so I started using them. Anything longer than 8 miles I would take one before and one half way. Also anything about 9-10 miles I use one Cliffshot Gel around mile 8-9 to get some cals in there before the last miles to give me a boost. So far this has worked well for me. But remember, I am a walker, so the exersion level may not be the same, but I am out there longer than you.
My first half marathon in Jan 07 I only trained with water and a granola bar. I think I have come a long way.
I can't use anymore than the two sports beans because they upset my stomach.
You just need to see what you think you need and then start out small or slow and see how it works for you.

Tracy

jmasgat

09-19-2008, 07:57 PM

I've used Sport Beans, and while I like the taste of them versus the GU or Gel, I find that they take a long time to eat! So as far as getting in the nutrition fast (and getting the sensation of eating stuff over soon), I think I will try to go with Gu or gel. The consistency of them leaves a lot to be desired (and they aren't necessarily the most pleasant going down), but they are fast.

Maura

Kira G.

09-19-2008, 08:31 PM

I like Cliff Shot blocks or (even better) Luna Gels - the Luna Gels are smaller and dissolve faster in my mouth. I can stand the idea of GUs and gels, so I haven't even tried them!

I will usually have one halfway through my longer runs (7 miles or more). Also, I almost always carry one or two in my pocket, and I'll pop one in my mouth if I feel like I'm losing energy on shorter runs. I only run with water, and this plan works well for me.

Duanerice

09-19-2008, 08:45 PM

I pretty much use GU gels (Plain or Vanilla) on any run over 7 miles. Up to that a bowl of cereal and cup of coffee pretty much take care of it. I take them about every 45 - 50 minutes (but only if I have at least 3 miles left).

I ALWAYS take them with water. I actually take a little in my mouth then take a drink to dilute it. That seems to thin it out a bit. Otherwise they are disgusting! I've tired all brands and a lot of flavors. The idea is to just get it in with the least amount of effort.

Sometimes I take Jelly Belly jelly beans. Just munch on a few. I am going to try something a little more solid this year as I get hungry on runs longer than 15 miles. I do have Cliff Bars but they are just OK.

Just like shoes, this will be different for everyone. Try it until you find what works for you.
enjoy,
Duane

Zela

09-20-2008, 09:50 PM

I love the GU's. I have some in seasonal mint chocolate flavor and chocolate fudge. They taste like store bought icing to me;)

cdn_gal_eeyore

09-20-2008, 10:34 PM

I've tried Shot Bloks and Sport Beans and I found that I was just taking too long to chew. I tried out Clif Shots and Hammer Gels and I really like pretty well every flavour of Hammer Gel I tried. I found the Clif Shots to be a bit too salty and sweet. The best Hammer Gels are Espresso and Vanilla. At first I found the texture weird, but I did get used to it. Try things out though, and see what you like best!

Cindylou

09-21-2008, 03:02 AM

Hi,

I use Accel Gels because they contain protein. The chocolate and vanilla are both pretty good. I used to wait until 4 miles into my LR to have one, but have switched to taking one at 2 miles, then every 4 miles after that. I've had a couple really good LR since doing that. Not sure if it's the reason why, but I'll grasp at anything. I bring along pretzels and sports beans for a treat along the way too.

Good luck in finding what works for you.
Cindy

funwalker

09-21-2008, 03:59 AM

I am a walker. On longer walks I start using GU at about 4 1/2 miles - then every 4 miles thereafter. I concentrate on getting the fuel and trying not to upset my stomach.

I do carry water on longer walks, but I also like the sports beans when my mouth gets dry.

Thanks for starting this thread. It is interesting to see what is working for others.

CarolA

09-21-2008, 10:07 AM

I have been doing the sport beans. I am not sure I can deal with the Gel, but plan to try some on my next long run.

Since I do a run walk combo, the time to eat the beans isn't really an issue. I have those walk periods to do that!

laxdef69

09-21-2008, 10:59 AM

double post, sorry

laxdef69

09-21-2008, 11:00 AM

I pretty much use GU gels (Plain or Vanilla) on any run over 7 miles.

I ALWAYS take them with water. I actually take a little in my mouth then take a drink to dilute it. That seems to thin it out a bit. Otherwise they are disgusting! I've tired all brands and a lot of flavors. The idea is to just get it in with the least amount of effort.

Duane

I tend to agree with Duane, but the brand I use is crank sports...they have a gel (E-Gel) and a drink mix (E-Fuel). I like them since there are no added sugar, and no Sucralose (an artificial sweeter, basically a genetically modified sugar which hasn't convincingly been demonstrated to be safe...but its in a LOT of "sugar free" products.

You need to always take a gel (regardless of brand) with water (NOT a sports drink), so that the electrolytes are carried to your small intestine which is where they are absorbed...otherwise they will sit in your stomach until you "purge" them.

At a high level, the gels are hypertonic (more concentrated than your body fluids) which slows absorbtion. If you take it with water, the concentration gets closer to your body fluid composition, which speeds absorption. Drinking an electrolyte replacement drink with your gel (instead of water) will not properly dilute the gel, which slows the absorption rate. This can also lead to stomach irritation and a dehydrating effect as your cellular fluids are drawn upon to dilute the gel.

The Crank Sports stuff uses maltodextrin as its carb source...much more complex than glucose, sucrose and dextrin...which means that you get more even absorption of the energy...and avoid energy swings (peaks and valleys, bonking etc).

I have attached a link to the Crank Sports site, and highly recommend these supplements. I'm not a dealer, owner, or anything but a very satisfied customer.

http://cranksports.com/

There is a way for me to get referral credits on my own future orders if you decide to try some, but I don't want to pimp that...if you are going to try it, and feel like letting me get some credit for the referral, please PM me and I'll send you the links.

If not, I STILL highly recommend these....

Mike

chimera

09-21-2008, 11:05 AM

Tricia...I think it's all personal preference. The first year I refused to put those nasty gels in my mouth and used honey packets with occasional p'nut butter crackers for the really long runs. The second year I moved up to Cliff bloks but, like a lot of people said, they're really chewy...and if they're cold, they're really hard and chewy. I finally transitioned to gels and really do notice a difference. Not the kinda thing I'd have as a daily snack, but much easier to digest and seem to get things going faster. I definitely take them with water, the more the better. I'm kinda sensitive to flavors. I can do chocolate or srawberry early in the run, but later in a long run, my stomach won't tolerate anything but vanilla.

Just experiment and find out what works best for you!

JimB.

09-21-2008, 03:33 PM

Second vote here for Accel Gels for the same reasons that Cindy stated.

I just got some Chocolate/Caffeine hoping for the best taste-wise but not expecting much.

I was quite surprised, they taste like Tootsie Rolls in a pouch.

smileyk8

09-21-2008, 04:00 PM

this is a really useful thread so thanks. I've struggled to find something that doesn't give me stomache cramps- no to gatorade, sports beans, lucozade and powerade so far! Looking to try gels next and it's good to see when ppl take them and how far into runs so thanks. Lookin at Accel gels- i can actually get hold of these in UK so might try them. I'll let you know!

cdn_gal_eeyore

09-21-2008, 09:07 PM

Kate, have you tried powdered Gatorade over the stuff that already comes in the bottles? I've heard that is easier to digest. Just a thought!

laxdef69

09-22-2008, 05:21 AM

If you tend to be a profuse sweater, then cliff shot blocks margarita flavor are great...they put extra salt in them which helps a lot with electrolyte replacement.

Also, you can imagine what the real margarita will taste like at the finish :thumbsup2

mkymsehi

09-23-2008, 09:09 PM

I have an arsenal of fuel choices.

Powerbar gels and Power bars, Jelly Belly Sports beans, fruit leathers (roll ups), Shot Blocks. I also carry a bottle of Gatorade that is refillable at the waterstops if necessary. Not to mention the strength of the Gatorade varies by each waterstop you get to.

I also carry French Mustard packs, in case of cramping. Don't believe me, do a google search for mustard for muscle cramps. It really works!

TnTsParty

09-23-2008, 09:23 PM

I just wanted to thank everyone for their suggestions. When I get back from WDW and get back on track with my marathon training I will have to try some of them out and see what works - the thought of chocolate icing sounds good. I think I am just a little scared of the gu name - things like gu and gel doesn't sound like it would go down good. And everytime I see Shot Blocks I think Snot Blocks - I'm wierd what can I say.

PandasPrincess

09-23-2008, 09:25 PM

I use Gu Expresso Gel with plain water! I start taking a gel at mile 3 and then
every 3 miles. I also carry a bottle of water and a bottle of G2u. If I feel I
need a little extra boost I will take a sip of G2u halfway between gels. This seems to be working for me so far.

Whatever you decide to try, try it during training and not during a race as you may not know what you stomach will accept or reject!

Good luck!!

Cruella de mom

09-24-2008, 08:26 AM

Tricia - I am in the minority on the boards and most people disagree with my training methods but I will post it anyway.

I do not train with anything other than a few sips of powerade ever 3 - 4 miles.

On a long run, I usually carry a few sportbeans in my pocket just for emergencies. But I never plan to use anything other than powerade for all long runs, even 20 milers. I do however try new fuel sources out on some of my shorter runs just to make sure I could handle them on race day.

Several of my friends are seasoned marathoners and even ironmen. They believe that using gels while training actually hurts your training effort because you do not teach you body to burn its stored fuel sources. Your body does not want to give up its stored fuel and it won't do it unless it is trained to do so. Part of all those trainig miles is training your body to be a more efficent fuel manager and teaching it to use that stored fuel (aka fat)

WHen you are used to running on stored fuel, your body is more efficent and can work in a deficit for a long time. You feel tired, but you can maintain your pace and effort. If you use a gel or gu during a race, you feel a huge surge of energy that lasts for a very long time.

If you are not used to running on stored fuel, you will completely bonk without a gel or gu at some point. During a race, you will have to have a gel or a gu in order to finish. However, the effects of the gel or gu are negated because your body is not using its stored fuel and it depends on fuel intake.

That said:
I can not use GU at all after someone described it as having the consistancy of snot. I just can't make myself swallow it anymore.

I prefer the Accel gel for the dash of protein it adds to its formula. I tend to metabolize sugar very fast and the protein helps me digest it slower.

Sport beans - I tend to use these during races. They are easy to carry, easy to dole out in small doses, and they taste pretty good. I usually suck on them as opposed to chewing them.

Cecilia

lenshanem

09-24-2008, 09:55 AM

When I trained for my last half marathon I tried the sports beans, but they took too long to eat. I switched over to the Clif Bloks and liked them better. I get the Margarita flavor cause it has more sodium. I ate them with water. I think I'll go this same route soon. I'm not quite yet at that point when I need something.

Lynn G

09-24-2008, 10:45 AM

I prefer the Sport Beans for taste, and ease of carrying - I always get sticky every time I eat a gel. I have started using the Shot Blocks - but I do not try to chew them, I will just put one in my cheek and let is disolve slowly. I do not wait until I feel I need one, but in a race, I will start with one, it will last about 3 miles. It also helps dry mouth. I will sip water at regular intervals (at least every half mile) during the race.

I will repeat what others have said - be sure you try the alternatives during training before using it during a race! So far, nothing I have tried has effected my stomach - but there is always a first time!

TnTsParty

09-24-2008, 11:00 AM

I prefer the Accel gel for the dash of protein it adds to its formula. I tend to metabolize sugar very fast and the protein helps me digest it slower.

Sport beans - I tend to use these during races. They are easy to carry, easy to dole out in small doses, and they taste pretty good. I usually suck on them as opposed to chewing them.

Cecilia

Thanks again for the responses - I appreciate each and every one of them. Cecilia - how did the Accel gel taste - I tried Accelerade I didn't like the taste of it - not sure if it was the protein or not - so I wasn't sure if the Accel would have that same taste or not.

As far as sport beans - I have tried them once - it actually was during the Minnie 15k - I know don't try anything new on race day - I forgot I even had them until I was going past the Yacht Club so I can't tell if they did anything or not. To me they weren't any different than a regular jelly belly.

smileyk8

09-24-2008, 11:35 AM

Kate, have you tried powdered Gatorade over the stuff that already comes in the bottles? I've heard that is easier to digest. Just a thought!

Ah thanks for the suggestion- it's harder to get hold of stuff like that over here and have to admit i'm a little reluctant to spend lots of money if i can't really use it. I have been looking into Nuun electrolyte replacement dissolvable tablets that go in water. No carbs, but could help with rehydrating and preventing stitches etc. Hmm

Cruella de mom

09-24-2008, 02:11 PM

The accel gel wasn't bad. I tried the orange. I can't stand anything sweet so in my opinion, they are all nasty.

But then, I am wierd. I choke down one of those nasty accelrades after every run because they help tremendously with recovery. I have actually gotten where I like the taste of the citrus grapefruit.

Cindylou

09-25-2008, 07:02 AM

I didn't care for the Accelerade either other than the grapefruit flavor, but the gels are better. I think the vanilla and the chocolate Accel gels are pretty good. I'll use the orange citrus too, but they are very sweet.

Cindy

wellesleyprincess

09-25-2008, 09:16 AM

Okay, this may sound like a strange question but this thread got me thinking.

So for those of you that take gatorade or other non-water beverages, do you actually stop to drink them? I'm a water gal myself and often continue running (well or at least moving quickly) while drinking it, and can't see how one could be cordinated enough to do that with something with coloring. As much water as I've spilled on myself, I think that using gatorade would ruin to many running clothes. So if there's some secret, please let me in as I prefer some flavoring, but also to keep moving.

Staying on topic. I've tried the chocolate GU and they remind me of chocolate pudding packs.

Jen117

09-25-2008, 10:19 AM

As for gels, I prefer Hammergel and Powerbar gel (vanilla only on that one). I want to try Accel tho because of the protein. I use sports beans also, but beware of choking. I have done that (trying to run and eat). They will burn your throat a bit.

wellesleyprincess - When you grab a drink at the aid stations, squeeze the top of the glass to make it skinny. This will prevent you from spilling it down the front of you. Also, most of the gatoraid at the stations are mixed 1/2 strength and it's usually lemon/lime so it it light colored. I think maybe once I saw orange at a race, but again it was 1/2 strength so not as toxic colored.

laxdef69

09-25-2008, 10:21 AM

So for those of you that take gatorade or other non-water beverages, do you actually stop to drink them? I'm a water gal myself and often continue running (well or at least moving quickly) while drinking it, and can't see how one could be cordinated enough to do that with something with coloring. As much water as I've spilled on myself, I think that using gatorade would ruin to many running clothes. So if there's some secret, please let me in as I prefer some flavoring, but also to keep moving.

i use a fuel belt, so the bottles are the spout type so spilling isn't an issue for me.

During races I have found that if I collapse the top of the cup to make a spout/funnel, I don't spill very much at all and am able to keep most of my pace...any other tips folks?

VERY interesting observation Cecelia; I'll need to research that theory..sounds sensible!

Not maligning anyones choices by ANY means, but there were a couple of things that concerned me about Accelerade:

1) The first or second ingredient in their drinks/power is sugar.

2) Their gels all appear to contain high fructose corn syrup (HFCS).

http://www.accelerade.com/products/NutritionInformation.aspx

All of the links below regarding HFCS are older (2-4 years...if anyone has more recent information, I'd love to see it).

Link from the Mayo Clinic:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/high-fructose-corn-syrup/AN01588

and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition:

http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/full/79/4/537

In the interests of being even-handed, below is a link from the NYTimes that suggests it may be refined sugars in general, rather than HFCS as pure evil.

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/02/business/yourmoney/02syrup.html

3) The premade drinks appear to gain their carbs from sugars (sucrose and trehalose)

link to trehalose from Cargill

http://www.cargillhft.com/industry_ascend_faq.html

Sucrose is the simplest form of carbs to process, but that also means that you can get a spike/drop in energy level. The powdered drink also uses mostly sugar for its carb source but also a small amount of maltodextrin (a complex carb that gives you more even energy). I am basing the "small amount" comment based on where it appears in the list of ingredients

4) Everything I have read says that protein is best consumed after exercising (ideally within 60 minutes of concluding your workout), rather than enhancing your actual workout. My concern would be possible GI distress from forcing your system to process both simple and complex carbohydrate and proteins while exercising. However, the 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein is (again, from my understanding) ideal for recovery after a workout.

With all that said, if you are using it, and not having any problems, good on ya!

link below for "good on ya!"

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=good%20on%20ya&defid=560745

If I am off on any of my observations, I'd love to add to my (SMALL) general fund of nutrition knowledge!

Mike

Cruella de mom

09-25-2008, 11:21 AM

A very thorough answer as usual. Thanks Mike.

[QUOTE=laxdef69;277970014) Everything I have read says that protein is best consumed after exercising (ideally within 60 minutes of concluding your workout), rather than enhancing your actual workout. My concern would be possible GI distress from forcing your system to process both simple and complex carbohydrate and proteins while exercising. However, the 4:1 ratio of carbs to protein is (again, from my understanding) ideal for recovery after a workout.[/QUOTE]

That is why I use the accelerade as a recovery drink and not during the run.

My personal opinion is that sugar is still better than all those sugar substitutes.
I don't eat much sugar in my regular diet so I can probably handle the 14g in an accelerade bottle. Now that I have cut out my 100 calorie can of coca- cola, this is the only signifcant source of sugar in my daily diet. Well, unless you count bananas.

As for races, I walk during waterstops. Too many people zig zagging around, too many slippery cups on the ground, too many chances to get hurt. I figure the few seconds I lose at the waterstops are just part of the whole race experience.

laxdef69

09-25-2008, 11:46 AM

That is why I use the accelerade as a recovery drink and not during the run.

My personal opinion is that sugar is still better than all those sugar substitutes.
I don't eat much sugar in my regular diet so I can probably handle the 14g in an accelerade bottle. Now that I have cut out my 100 calorie can of coca- cola, this is the only signifcant source of sugar in my daily diet. Well, unless you count bananas.

1) Sorry Cecelia, I didn't get that from your earlier post...it seems like it would be a decent choice for recovery drink..the sugar would promote an insulin spike, which would tend to speed the protein into your muscles to start recovery.

2) I completely agree with you that sugar is healthier than any of the sugar substitutes like aspartame, sucralose, saccharine, etc.

I read something that literally made my jaw drop...the average person in the US drinks 557 12 oz cans of soda annually. With 10 tsp of sugar (thats 3.33 tablespoons in each can folks!) that is 5570 tsp of sugar...from soft drinks alone!

At 16.3 calories in each tsp that is 90,800 calories a year...from soda!

90,800 calories at 3500 calories per pound converts to 25.94 pounds a year...:scared1: :scared1: :scared1:

http://www.cspinet.org/liquidcandy/index.html

Cruella de mom

09-25-2008, 04:03 PM

Sigh. And yet, even without my beloved 10oz can of coca-cola, I have not lost a single pound. Probably all the accelerade.....

Wait!
Did I just admit I gave up a beloved treat for stuff I have to force myself to drink?
John Bingham warned me about this but I laughed when I read it.
:eek:

grizbuzz

09-25-2008, 05:27 PM

I'm a novice runner, so take my advice for what it's worth...

I bought the gel, but never tried it as it seems so unappealing :scared:

I have used the Cliff Shots and like them, but they are somewhat bulky to carry.

Those beans are yummy. Taste like candy and they are small to carry. I really like them.

I have a QUESTION for all...I have been using beans/shots without caffeine. But it looks like some have shots of caffeine. Any opinion on whether to get caffeine or caffeine free?

laxdef69

09-25-2008, 06:01 PM

If you don't have caffeine problems, some caffeine during exercise can help you exercise longer and at higher intensity.

link:

http://us.commercial.lifefitness.com/content.cfm/theeffectsofcaffeineonexerciseperformance_2

extract from article:

How does caffeine affect performance in exercise and sports? Caffeine is often referred to as a nutritional ergogenic aid, but it has no nutritional value. Ingested caffeine is quickly absorbed in the body and peaks in 1-2 hours. Research provided by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has shown that ingestion of 3-9 mg of caffeine per kilogram (kg) of body weight one hour prior to exercise increased endurance running and cycling performance of well-trained, recreational athletes in the laboratory. This correlates to approximately 2-6 regular size cups of coffee.

DisneyWalkerGirl

09-27-2008, 08:27 PM

smileyk8

09-28-2008, 07:16 AM

For those of you who are concerned about ingredients - I found an energy chew that is organic. Sharkies are kind of like shot blocks, but smaller and shaped like sharks ;) About the size of swedish fish candies.

They are gluten free, wheat free, and vegetarian. I have a senstivie tummy and these don't bother me at all. Here is the link to their website for those who might be interested in nutritional info

http://www.sharkiesinc.com/index.cfm

I get mine at our local running store. They come is several flavors. I am partial to Berry Blast.

Fun side note - the first time I used them when racing with my 21 year old DS and 18 year old dear niece, the kids wanted some sharkies at mile 8 - What do the 2 college kids do? My DS takes the bag that I hand him, pulls one out and starts humming the "Jaws" music and "swimming" it toward my niece's mouth. :rotfl2: Nothing like playing with your food on the race course! We were all cracking up :laughing:

:rotfl: i love that story. Very sweet. I've just found a place in UK that could ship them to me. I have to admit not totally concerned about ingredients, more angry stomach. Anyone else have experience using these? Can get a trial pack of all 5 flavours for £6.25 which doesn't seem too bad (somethin like $15 at moment i guess). Slightly bothers me that they seem geared towards kids- don't know if that's an issue.

DisneyWalkerGirl

10-03-2008, 02:20 PM

:rotfl: i love that story. Very sweet. I've just found a place in UK that could ship them to me. I have to admit not totally concerned about ingredients, more angry stomach. Anyone else have experience using these? Can get a trial pack of all 5 flavours for £6.25 which doesn't seem too bad (somethin like $15 at moment i guess). Slightly bothers me that they seem geared towards kids- don't know if that's an issue.

I figure anything that has a "fun" shape is geared toward kids, but hey if it works for me I don't care :goodvibes

Is the trial pack you are getting 5 different bags? I pay around $2 for a single bag here.

smileyk8

10-03-2008, 03:44 PM

I figure anything that has a "fun" shape is geared toward kids, but hey if it works for me I don't care :goodvibes

Is the trial pack you are getting 5 different bags? I pay around $2 for a single bag here.

I didn't realise there is a different type for kiddies! My mistake- silly kate. Yeah it contains 5 bags one of each flavour- the postage is killing it tho adding another £4 so may hang on to see if they have them in a running shop nearby. Thanks again tho for the heads up

hungrygreenhippo

06-06-2009, 04:37 PM

I figured I'd revive this old thread since there's a lot of good info.

I remembered reading that gels should be taken with water...

You need to always take a gel (regardless of brand) with water (NOT a sports drink), so that the electrolytes are carried to your small intestine which is where they are absorbed...otherwise they will sit in your stomach until you "purge" them.

At a high level, the gels are hypertonic (more concentrated than your body fluids) which slows absorbtion. If you take it with water, the concentration gets closer to your body fluid composition, which speeds absorption. Drinking an electrolyte replacement drink with your gel (instead of water) will not properly dilute the gel, which slows the absorption rate. This can also lead to stomach irritation and a dehydrating effect as your cellular fluids are drawn upon to dilute the gel.

But what about energy chews? Specifically I'm wondering about the new GU Chomps, because the packaging reads "hydrate along the way" which is a little vague. On the other hand Clif Shot Bloks state "always follow consumption with water" which is a much clearer instruction.

I know every person is different so I'm going to test out the GU Chomps without water sometime this weekend. But I was just wondering if anyone out there has any information to share. Also please let me know if there are other brands of energy chews (preferably with caffeine) that can be taken without water. I searched through the offerings at REI this morning and the GU Chomps looked the most promising but I'm open to other suggestions. Luckily I haven't had any problems with any of the gels or chews I've tried so far. GU mint chocolate is my favorite.

laughinplace199

06-06-2009, 06:15 PM

What a great thread! :thumbsup2 I use vanilla Gu on long runs and can tolerate it well enough, but I was just recently thinking of trying something else. Now I have lots of things to look into. It would be great to find something a little more appealing than Gu. Those Sharkies sound like fun.

Steffwalks

06-07-2009, 10:34 AM

My son-in-law uses honey packets. You know just like the ones you pick up at KFC to use on your biscuits. He says they are great and learned to use them during his military career.

I have discovered "enlyten". They are electrolyte strips that dissolve. They don't have much sugar, but I have found that carrying Jolly Ranchers works great! It works way better for me in hot humid conditions than the big spike of sugar does.

I also use "Crank" efuel gels. I really like those too. I can't use a whole pack of gel at once (of any kind :sick:) So I have a gel flask so that I can get just a bit at each fuel station and wash it down with water.

hungrygreenhippo

06-08-2009, 06:18 PM

I remembered reading that gels should be taken with water... But what about energy chews? Specifically I'm wondering about the new GU Chomps, because the packaging reads "hydrate along the way" which is a little vague. On the other hand Clif Shot Bloks state "always follow consumption with water" which is a much clearer instruction.

I answered my own question. :lmao: I tried the strawberry Chomps over the weekend and didn't have any problem tolerating them without water. I also noticed a marked difference in my performance. So :thumbsup2 for GU Chomps.

laxdef69

06-08-2009, 09:33 PM

I answered my own question. :lmao: I tried the strawberry Chomps over the weekend and didn't have any problem tolerating them without water. I also noticed a marked difference in my performance. So :thumbsup2 for GU Chomps.

Link below from GU for using the chomps:

http://www.guenergy.com/products/gu-chomps/how-to-gu-chomps

Basically, you should take in 20-30 Oz of water every hour. Without the water to carry the "stuff" through your intestinal wall...you aren't getting any benefit, unless you just like the taste! In fact, I normally START with 24-30 OZ of water in my system to help carry the first supplement through...that way I already have the first hours requirement in me...which is probably the best place to carry water anyway!

On a side note, Connie NAILED it with Crank Sports E-Fuel gels and drinks...by far my favorite, I've never bonked using them, but have bonked on every other supplement that I've tried, including GU, Powerbar, Hammer, etc.

SO, I guess I'm going to find enlyten strips now, too...thanks Connie!

JimB.

06-08-2009, 09:49 PM

I use chocolate Accel Gels. They are about 80% carbs & 20% protein (which theoretically aids in more rapid carb uptake). They also have some caffeine in them which OCCASIONALLY I feel a wee bit of a buzz on. They taste like Tootsie Rolls in a pouch. It's the only flavor I have found that I can tolerate.

I DO need water with them. Heck, I'm sure I DO need water WITHOUT them, so no big deal there..............

I have not had any difficulty with the HFCS. I actually read an article not too long ago that basically stated there was no structural/chemical difference between that and "regular" sugar. The difficulty, if any, is with the manner in which it is produced (some different chemicals used than in refining sugar). But it does not seem to bother me, & I DO have a bit of a "glass stomach" when it come s to food.

I have tried a lot of different supplements (but not all.........). Heck, once I even tried a Hershey's chocolate bar. That was a messy mistake.

I almost forgot - -- When I do not want an entire gel, I DO use Cherry SportBeans. I just tuck a couple in my cheek and suck on them. Taste pretty good & easy to use.

lourodrigis

06-09-2009, 07:28 AM

I love Powerbar Gels the best. The consistency is more liquidy so they are easier to swallow in warm or cold temps. The packages are also easier to open, even when wet.

I have used Clif Shots but their consistency is very thick, almost chewy (Chocolate) and are tough to swallow. In the winter they are extremely tough to swallow. The packages are also difficult to open. If your hands get wet from sweat they become almost impossible to open.

I have used Shot Bloks and Sport Beans for training runs but have a hard time using them for races because they are too chewy and make it hard to breath.

smileyk8

06-14-2009, 10:34 AM

I used clif shot bloks for the half and full marathon this year. Found them fine, if cut in half, but then they were a bit sticky. However... i discovered a much better alternative at the boston expo- powerbar ride shots. The cola flavour in particular is really nice and they have a much less chewy texture. I haven't tested them out on really long runs, but they haven't hurt my stomach as sports beans did so :thumbsup2 for them!

laughinplace199

06-14-2009, 12:07 PM

timmac

06-18-2009, 02:21 PM

So what does everyone suggest as far as Gu, Gel, beans etc? Now that I am starting to do long runs 10 miles and over I think I need to start using something besides a cup of coffee before the run and half gatorade/half water on the run.

I'm going to offer a suggestion that seems contrary to what just about everyone else has suggested, but here goes anyway...

For one or two of your run, try taking some Gu/etc once or twice. Try to use exactly the same thing that is going to be offered at the race you're training for. This will get you used to it, and determine ahead of time if it's going to be a problem for you (upset stomach, etc)

Other than that, don't use anything on your training runs, besides water and gatorade (more of the former, less of the latter). The theory here is that you want to train your body to become more efficient at burning fat reserves rather than depending solely on glycogen stores and blood sugar. This will help you push past the "wall" on race day, when you do have the Gu, etc, at your disposal.

Though I talk as though I know what I'm saying, I'm really only regurgitating things I've heard, and that have worked okay for me, your mileage may vary. (pardon the pun)

syko

06-19-2009, 08:45 AM

My friend trains with only one bottle of plain water......for 26 miles, for excatly the same reasons you said Timmic.:scared1:
He was surprised at how much I drunk during training, and I thought he was nuts for having so little!!!!:rotfl:

I actually train at race day speed, but I do take a lot less shots on a traing day as to a race, but as i'm in 100 heat (heat index included) I need to have my eleco drink. I also use fizzy water rathen than still.....my DH can't understand it but I find I nedd to drink less to stop being thirsty.:confused3

timmac

06-19-2009, 11:04 AM

I bought the gel, but never tried it as it seems so unappealing :scared:

Wait until you're a few miles from the end of a really long race. The taste of the gel will be the least of your concerns, and possibly even a welcome (if temporary) diversion from the discomfort in your legs :)

I have a QUESTION for all...I have been using beans/shots without caffeine. But it looks like some have shots of caffeine. Any opinion on whether to get caffeine or caffeine free?

Strictly opinion here, but I'd say it depends also on your caffeine intake normally. If you're normally a several-cup-a-day coffee drinker, I'd say get the caffeine. If you usually don't drink much caffeine, I'd say avoid them.

Personally, I drink very little caffeine. I'll never buy caffeinated gels/shots/beans, but if they're offered on the race course, I'll usually take them.