For those interested in the details of why use the carbohydrate blend as found in Bikefood®, please see the additional information below:
A carbohydrate blend of sucrose and maltodextrin enhances energy availability for cyclists by maximizing carbohydrate absorption rates and oxidation, utilizing multiple transport pathways. This allows cyclists to sustain high-intensity performance for longer, delaying fatigue and maintaining stable energy levels throughout endurance activities.
A mixed carbohydrate blend of sucrose and maltodextrin offers cyclists enhanced performance benefits by optimizing energy delivery and absorption. Sucrose and maltodextrin, when combined, utilize different carbohydrate transport pathways, which enables faster absorption rates and improved carbohydrate oxidation during prolonged exercise, reducing fatigue (Jeukendrup, 2010). Maltodextrin provides rapid glucose release, while sucrose’s fructose component allows for an alternate absorption route, maximizing the body’s total carbohydrate intake capacity (Currell & Jeukendrup, 2008). This synergy helps maintain blood glucose levels, delaying the onset of fatigue and allowing for sustained high-intensity performance in endurance sports like cycling (Wallis et al., 2005).
References:
- Currell, K., & Jeukendrup, A. E. (2008). Superior endurance performance with ingestion of multiple transportable carbohydrates. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 40(2), 275-281.
- Jeukendrup, A. E. (2010). Carbohydrate and exercise performance: the role of multiple transportable carbohydrates. Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition & Metabolic Care, 13(4), 452-457.
- Wallis, G. A., Rowlands, D. S., Shaw, C., Jentjens, R. L. P. G., & Jeukendrup, A. E. (2005). Oxidation of combined ingestion of maltodextrins and fructose during exercise. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 37(3), 426-432.