Woolworths Macaroni Cheese
- Meal
- Checked
- Grade C
Macaroni Cheese by Woolworths has 614 kcal, 56 g carbs, 26 g protein and 30 g fat per serving (Per 400 g serving).
Woolworths Macaroni Cheese is a ready-to-eat meal featuring fresh macaroni pasta in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with cheddar cheese. Each 400g serving provides 613.7 kcal, 56g of carbohydrates, and 26g of protein, making it a substantial meal option. While the high carbohydrate content aids glycogen replenishment post-exercise, the significant fat content (30g per serving) may slow gastric emptying, making it less ideal for pre-race or during-race consumption. This product is particularly suitable for athletes seeking a convenient recovery meal with a balance of macronutrients, though it should be complemented with additional protein for optimal muscle repair.
- High carb content for glycogen replenishment
- Substantial protein for muscle repair
- Convenient ready-to-eat meal
On the label per serving, Per 400 g serving
| Energy | 2568 kJ |
|---|---|
| Calories | 614 kcal |
| Carbs | 56.0 g |
| Fibre | 8.0 g |
| Protein | 26.0 g |
| Fat | 30.0 g |
| Saturated fat | 6.8 g |
| Cholesterol | 113 mg |
| Sodium | 1044 mg |
The numbers that matter on a training day
For endurance who it suits
Woolworths Macaroni Cheese serves as a convenient post-exercise meal option, providing necessary carbohydrates and protein for recovery. However, its high fat content may delay digestion, making it unsuitable for pre-race or during-race consumption. Athletes should consider pairing it with additional protein sources to optimize muscle repair.
This product is best suited for endurance athletes such as marathon runners, cyclists, or triathletes who need a convenient and substantial meal option post-training or competition. It's particularly beneficial for those who require a quick source of carbohydrates and protein to aid recovery. However, due to its high fat content, it may not be suitable for athletes with sensitive stomachs or those in need of rapid digestion.
Ideal for post-long ride or run recovery sessions where glycogen stores need replenishing. Not recommended for high-intensity interval sessions due to its high fat content.
- Convenient ready-to-eat meal for recovery
- High carbohydrate content aids glycogen replenishment
- Contains substantial protein for muscle repair
- Provides sodium for sweat loss replenishment
- High fat content slows gastric emptying
- Not suitable for pre-race or during-race use
- May cause GI distress in some athletes
- High fat content may cause GI distress
- Potential for delayed digestion impacting performance
Fuelling science in short
No, due to high fat content slowing gastric emptying, making it unsuitable for consumption during workouts.
The high carbohydrate content suggests a moderate to high glycemic index, promoting quick glycogen replenishment post-exercise. However, the fat content may slow the overall glycemic response.
Contains 1044mg sodium per serving, which can aid in replenishing sodium lost through sweat during endurance activities.
- Total carbs
- 56 g
- Hourly capacity
- 60
Race day before, during and after
- BeforeDO NOT USE
- DuringDO NOT USE
- AfterUSE
- Carb loadCAUTION
- Every dayUSE
Pre-race and during-race use are not recommended due to potential GI distress from high fat content. Suitable for recovery due to carbohydrate and protein content, but should be paired with additional protein. Carb loading is possible but caution is advised due to satiety and fat content.
NOT RECOMMENDED for pre-race use because the high fat content slows gastric emptying, which may lead to GI distress and delayed energy availability.
NOT RECOMMENDED during racing because the high fat content and solid form can slow digestion and cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
USE within the first 30-60 minutes post-race to aid glycogen replenishment. Pair with a protein-rich food to support muscle repair.
- Pair with a lean protein source for enhanced recovery
- Consume with a low-fat beverage to aid digestion
- Combine with a fiber-rich salad to balance macronutrients
For practitioners the evidence
Evidence grade: B — Supported by studies on carbohydrate and fat metabolism, but specific product trials are lacking.
Macaroni Cheese provides 56g of carbohydrates per 400g serving, equating to a moderate carb density of 14g per 100g. While it contributes to carbohydrate intake, its high fat content and satiety impact make it less practical for achieving the 600-840g/day target required for effective carb loading. A 70kg athlete would need to consume approximately 11 servings to meet the lower end of this target, which is impractical due to the volume and fat content.
The digestion of Macaroni Cheese begins in the mouth with mechanical breakdown. The high fat content slows gastric emptying, delaying the release of nutrients into the small intestine. Carbohydrates are absorbed via the SGLT1 transporter, while fats are emulsified and absorbed in the small intestine. The high fat content can delay the time-to-bloodstream for glucose, affecting immediate energy availability. Unabsorbed residues may lead to fermentation in the colon, posing a risk for GI distress.
Macaroni Cheese provides carbohydrates necessary for glycogen resynthesis, though the 56g per serving may fall short of the 1.0-1.2 g/kg/h target. The 26g of protein aids muscle protein synthesis, but additional protein may be needed to meet the leucine threshold. The high sodium content can assist in rehydration post-exercise. However, the high fat content may impede rapid nutrient absorption, suggesting it should be complemented with faster-digesting protein sources.
The high fat content may cause GI distress during exercise, slowing gastric emptying and delaying nutrient absorption. The product's acidity and stickiness can increase dental erosion risk. Blood-glucose volatility is less of a concern post-exercise, but pre-exercise consumption may lead to rebound hypoglycemia. Athletes with IBS or those sensitive to high-fat meals may experience discomfort.
- Do not use within 90 minutes of race start due to high fat content slowing digestion.
- Do not consume during high-intensity sessions due to potential GI distress.
- Avoid if lactose intolerant or allergic to wheat.
- High fat content may cause GI distress during exercise by slowing gastric emptying.
- Potential for dental erosion due to acidity and stickiness of the cheese sauce.
- Rebound hypoglycemia risk if consumed pre-exercise due to high GI carbs.
- Excessive sodium intake may be problematic for hypertensive athletes.
Questions about Macaroni Cheese
How many carbs are in Macaroni Cheese by Woolworths?
56 g of carbs per serving (Per 400 g serving), with 614 kcal and 26 g protein.
Can I eat this before a race?
No, the high fat content may slow digestion and cause GI distress, making it unsuitable for pre-race consumption.
Is this suitable for recovery?
Yes, it provides carbohydrates for glycogen replenishment and protein for muscle repair, but consider adding more protein.
How does it affect digestion?
The high fat content may slow gastric emptying, potentially leading to delayed digestion and energy availability.
Are there any allergens?
Yes, it contains wheat and dairy, which may affect those with allergies or intolerances.
What are the alternatives for during-race fueling?
Opt for low-fat, high-carb gels or drinks that are easier to digest and provide rapid energy.
Does it need refrigeration?
Yes, it should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed by the use-by date.
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