PlantLove Tomato & Lentil Girasoli
- Meal
- Checked
- Grade B
Tomato & Lentil Girasoli by PlantLove has 188 kcal, 26 g carbs, 6.9 g protein and 5.4 g fat per serving (100g).
PlantLove's Tomato & Lentil Girasoli is a vegan-friendly filled pasta made by Bertagni in Italy. Each 100g serving provides 235.2 kcal, 32g of carbohydrates, and 8.6g of protein, making it a moderate energy source for athletes. The filling consists of tomato sauce and lentils, offering a plant-based protein option. With a sodium content of 785mg per serving, this product may help replenish sodium lost through sweat during prolonged activities. However, its high sodium content necessitates careful integration into a balanced diet, especially for athletes with specific dietary restrictions. This pasta is best consumed post-training to aid recovery, given its carbohydrate content and protein support. Its fiber content of 5.4g per serving may slow gastric emptying, making it less suitable for immediate pre-race consumption.
- Moderate carbohydrate source
- Plant-based protein option
- High sodium for rehydration
On the label per serving, 100g
| Energy | 787 kJ |
|---|---|
| Calories | 188 kcal |
| Carbs | 26.0 g |
| Sugar | 4.8 g |
| Fibre | 4.3 g |
| Protein | 6.9 g |
| Fat | 5.4 g |
| Saturated fat | 0.8 g |
| Sodium | 628 mg |
The numbers that matter on a training day
For endurance who it suits
Tomato & Lentil Girasoli offers a balanced post-exercise meal option for endurance athletes, providing carbohydrates and protein for recovery. Its high sodium content supports rehydration, but the fiber may limit its use during high-intensity efforts or races. Overall, it's a solid choice for recovery days or less intense training sessions.
This product is ideal for endurance athletes seeking a plant-based meal option that provides moderate carbohydrates and protein. It suits those who require a higher sodium intake post-exercise to aid in rehydration. Athletes with dietary sodium restrictions should be cautious. Its fiber content may not be suitable for those with sensitive gastrointestinal systems.
Best suited for post-training meals or recovery days when carbohydrate replenishment and sodium rehydration are needed. Not ideal for high-intensity sessions or races due to fiber content.
- Provides moderate carbohydrates for energy replenishment
- Contains plant-based protein for muscle repair
- High sodium content aids in rehydration
- Vegan-friendly option for diverse dietary needs
- High sodium may not suit all athletes
- Fiber content can slow gastric emptying
- Not suitable for during-race consumption
- Potential for gastrointestinal discomfort due to fiber
- High sodium content may affect blood pressure
Fuelling science in short
Not recommended during workouts. The fiber content may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, and the solid form is impractical for mid-race consumption.
With 32g of carbohydrates per serving, this pasta likely has a moderate glycemic index, providing a steady release of energy rather than a rapid spike. The fiber content may further moderate the glycemic response.
Each serving contains 785mg of sodium, which is substantial compared to the 300-600mg/hr typically lost through sweat. Potassium content is unspecified but could be relevant for rehydration.
- Total carbs
- 32 g
- Hourly capacity
- 60-90
Race day before, during and after
- BeforeDO NOT USE
- DuringDO NOT USE
- AfterUSE
- Carb loadCAUTION
- Every dayUSE
The Tomato & Lentil Girasoli is unsuitable for pre-race or during-race consumption due to its high fiber content, which can slow gastric emptying and cause GI distress. It is suitable for recovery due to its carbohydrate and protein content, aiding in glycogen replenishment and muscle repair. For carb loading, caution is advised due to the potential satiety effect of fiber. Suitable for everyday training when sodium and carbohydrate replenishment is needed.
NOT RECOMMENDED for pre-race use because the fiber content may slow gastric emptying and cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Opt for lower fiber, easily digestible carbohydrates instead.
NOT RECOMMENDED during racing because it is a solid food with high fiber content, which can cause gastrointestinal distress during intense activity.
USE for recovery as it provides carbohydrates for glycogen replenishment and protein for muscle repair. Pair with additional protein sources to meet recovery needs.
- Pair with a low-sodium vegetable soup to balance sodium intake
- Combine with a protein shake for enhanced recovery
- Serve with a side salad to increase micronutrient intake
For practitioners the evidence
Evidence grade: B — Supported by sports nutrition literature on carbohydrate intake, sodium rehydration, and fiber's impact on digestion.
The Tomato & Lentil Girasoli has a carb density of 32g per 100g, categorizing it as moderate. A 100g serving contributes 32g toward a 600g daily carb target for a 70kg athlete. However, the fiber content may cause satiety and gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large quantities, making it less practical for carb loading compared to low-fiber, high-carb alternatives.
The digestion of Tomato & Lentil Girasoli begins in the oral phase with mastication. The fiber content may slow gastric emptying, leading to a moderate release of glucose into the bloodstream. Carbohydrates are absorbed in the small intestine via SGLT1 transporters. The presence of fiber may delay absorption, impacting insulin and incretin responses. Unabsorbed fiber may undergo fermentation in the colon, potentially causing gastrointestinal discomfort.
This product provides carbohydrates necessary for glycogen resynthesis post-exercise, with 32g per serving aiding in meeting the 1.0-1.2g/kg/h target. The protein content supports muscle protein synthesis, though additional protein sources may be needed to reach optimal levels. High sodium content aids in rehydration by promoting fluid retention.
The high fiber content may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort during exercise, particularly for those not accustomed to high-fiber diets. The sodium content could pose a risk for athletes with hypertension or sodium-sensitive conditions. Dental erosion is unlikely due to the low sugar content, but the solid form may be impractical during exercise.
- Do not use within 90 minutes of race start if unaccustomed to high-fiber foods.
- Avoid during high-intensity sessions due to potential GI distress.
- Not suitable for athletes with sodium restrictions or hypertension.
- High fiber content may cause bloating and discomfort during exercise.
- Excessive sodium intake can elevate blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
- Potential for delayed gastric emptying due to fiber content.
- May not provide sufficient protein for optimal muscle recovery alone.
- Jeukendrup 2010, Sports Medicine — Carbohydrate intake during exercise improves endurance performance.
- Burke 2015, Journal of Sports Sciences — High sodium intake can aid in rehydration post-exercise.
- Stellingwerff 2011, International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism — Fiber content can affect gastric emptying rates.
Questions about Tomato & Lentil Girasoli
How many carbs are in Tomato & Lentil Girasoli by PlantLove?
26 g of carbs per serving (100g), with 188 kcal and 6.9 g protein.
When should I consume Tomato & Lentil Girasoli?
Consume post-training or on recovery days for carbohydrate and protein replenishment. Avoid pre-race or during high-intensity sessions.
Is this product suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Tomato & Lentil Girasoli is vegan-friendly, providing a plant-based protein source.
Can I use this product during a race?
No, the high fiber content and solid form make it unsuitable for mid-race consumption.
How does the sodium content affect hydration?
The high sodium content aids in rehydration post-exercise but may not be suitable for those with sodium restrictions.
What are the allergen concerns?
No specific allergens are stated, but always check for potential cross-contamination if you have allergies.
How should I store this product?
Keep refrigerated below 5°C and consume within 2 days of opening. Suitable for freezing.
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