Woolworths Napoletana Sauce
- Sauce
- Checked
- Grade C
Napoletana Sauce by Woolworths has 34 kcal, 3 g carbs, 0.5 g protein and 2.4 g fat per serving (Per 50 g serving).
Woolworths Napoletana Sauce is a fresh tomato-based sauce crafted with imported Italian tomatoes, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. While it offers a rich flavor profile, its nutritional makeup is relatively light, providing 33.5 kcal and 3g of carbohydrates per 50g serving. This makes it a low-carb option for endurance athletes seeking to maintain energy without excessive caloric intake. The sauce's low carbohydrate content suggests it is best used in conjunction with other carbohydrate-rich foods to properly fuel longer training sessions. Its low sodium content of 95mg per serving is unlikely to meet the sodium loss through sweat in endurance activities, thus additional electrolyte sources may be necessary.
- Low-calorie, light energy source
- Rich tomato flavor for meal variety
- Minimal sodium for controlled intake
On the label per serving, Per 50 g serving
| Energy | 140 kJ |
|---|---|
| Calories | 34 kcal |
| Carbs | 3.0 g |
| Sugar | 2.5 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 2.4 g |
| Saturated fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 95 mg |
The numbers that matter on a training day
For endurance who it suits
Woolworths Napoletana Sauce is a flavorful addition to meals but lacks the carbohydrate density needed for significant endurance fueling. Its low sodium content also means it should not be relied upon for electrolyte replenishment. Pair with other nutrient-dense foods for optimal performance.
This sauce is suitable for endurance athletes who are looking to add flavor to their meals without significantly increasing their carbohydrate intake. It is ideal for those on a low-carb diet or athletes in the taper phase who are managing caloric intake closely. However, it should be paired with other carbohydrate-rich foods for those engaging in long-duration activities.
Best suited for easy runs or light training days where carbohydrate needs are lower. It can be used in pre-run meals for those managing caloric intake.
- Low calorie, suitable for weight management
- Rich in flavor, enhances meal variety
- Minimal sodium, easy to control intake
- Vegan-friendly, suitable for plant-based diets
- Low carbohydrate content for endurance needs
- Inadequate sodium for electrolyte replacement
- Not suitable as a standalone energy source
- High sugar content relative to total carbs
- Not suitable for mid-race fueling due to form
Fuelling science in short
Not recommended during workouts due to low carbohydrate content and impracticality of consumption in a sauce form.
With 3g of carbohydrates per serving, primarily from sugars, the sauce has a low glycemic impact. It will not significantly influence blood sugar levels or provide a rapid energy source.
Contains 95mg of sodium per serving, which is minimal compared to the 300-600mg/hr typically lost in sweat during endurance activities. Additional sodium sources are recommended.
- Total carbs
- 3 g
- Hourly capacity
- Not applicable due to low carb content
Race day before, during and after
- BeforeDO NOT USE
- DuringDO NOT USE
- AfterDO NOT USE
- Carb loadDO NOT USE
- Every dayUSE
The sauce's low carbohydrate and sodium content make it unsuitable for pre-race, during-race, and recovery contexts where higher energy and electrolyte replenishment are necessary. It can be used in everyday training meals when paired with other nutrient sources.
NOT RECOMMENDED for pre-race use because it provides insufficient carbohydrates and energy density to support glycogen stores effectively.
NOT RECOMMENDED during racing because it lacks fast-acting carbohydrates and is impractical to consume in sauce form.
NOT RECOMMENDED for recovery because it lacks adequate carbohydrates and protein to support glycogen resynthesis and muscle repair.
- Whole grain pasta for added complex carbs
- Grilled chicken for protein and satiety
- Steamed vegetables for fiber and micronutrients
For practitioners the evidence
Evidence grade: C — The analysis is based on general nutritional principles and the product's macronutrient profile, with limited direct research on this specific food item.
Woolworths Napoletana Sauce contains 5g of carbohydrates per 100g, which is considered low carb density. A 50g serving contributes only 3g towards a daily target of 600-840g for carb loading in endurance athletes. This is impractical as athletes would need to consume an excessive volume of sauce to meet their carbohydrate needs, which could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and is not feasible due to its low energy density and high water content.
The sauce is primarily composed of simple sugars and minimal fat, leading to a relatively fast gastric emptying rate. The carbohydrates are absorbed in the small intestine via SGLT1 transporters for glucose and GLUT5 for fructose. The low carbohydrate content means it will have a minimal impact on blood glucose levels and insulin response, making it unsuitable for rapid energy needs during exercise.
The sauce provides minimal carbohydrates and negligible protein, failing to meet the recommended 1.0-1.2 g/kg/h carbohydrate intake for optimal glycogen resynthesis post-exercise. It also lacks protein to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, making it inadequate as a standalone recovery food. Additional protein and carbohydrate sources are necessary to meet recovery needs.
The sauce's low carbohydrate content limits its ability to provide sustained energy for endurance activities. Its low sodium content is insufficient for replacing sweat losses, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances if not supplemented. The sugar content, although low, could contribute to dental erosion if consumed frequently without proper oral hygiene.
- Do not use as a primary carbohydrate source for endurance events due to low carb content.
- Do not rely on this sauce for sodium replacement during prolonged exercise.
- Do not consume in large volumes pre-race if not gut-trained with tomato-based products.
- Low sodium content may lead to inadequate electrolyte replenishment during high sweat loss activities.
- High sugar content relative to total carbs may contribute to dental erosion with frequent use.
- Low carbohydrate content fails to support glycogen replenishment post-exercise.
- Minimal protein content does not support muscle repair and recovery effectively.
Questions about Napoletana Sauce
How many carbs are in Napoletana Sauce by Woolworths?
3 g of carbs per serving (Per 50 g serving), with 34 kcal and 0.5 g protein.
Can this sauce be used for carb loading?
No, the sauce is too low in carbohydrates to contribute meaningfully to glycogen stores needed for carb loading.
Is this sauce suitable for pre-race meals?
No, it lacks the carbohydrate density required for effective pre-race fueling.
Can I use this sauce during a race?
No, it does not provide the necessary quick-release carbohydrates needed during endurance events.
Is this sauce good for recovery?
No, it lacks sufficient carbohydrates and protein to aid in recovery post-exercise.
What can I pair this sauce with for a balanced meal?
Pair with whole grain pasta and a protein source like chicken for a balanced meal.
Does this sauce contain allergens?
No specific allergens are listed, but check for cross-contamination if sensitive.
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