Plain Bagels 4 pk

Woolworths Plain Bagels 4 pk

  • Snack
  • Checked
  • Grade B
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The short answer

Plain Bagels 4 pk by Woolworths has 279 kcal, 51 g carbs, 9.9 g protein and 2.6 g fat per serving (1 bagel (approx. 100g)).

Calories279kcal
Carbs51g
Protein9.9g
Fat2.6g
About it

Woolworths Plain Bagels are a staple carbohydrate source, made from stoneground flour and slow-fermented for a chewy texture. Each 100g bagel provides 51g of carbohydrates, making it a high-density option for athletes focusing on carb-loading. With 9.9g of protein and 2.6g of fat per serving, these bagels are best utilized as a pre-training meal or as part of a carbohydrate-rich breakfast. They are particularly suitable for endurance athletes who require substantial glycogen stores before long-duration events. The bagel's carbohydrate composition is primarily glucose, facilitating rapid glycogen replenishment. However, due to their solid nature, they are not recommended for mid-race consumption.

  • High carbohydrate density
  • Moderate protein content
  • Vegan-friendly option

On the label per serving, 1 bagel (approx. 100g)

Energy1168 kJ
Calories279 kcal
Carbs51.0 g
Sugar6.1 g
Fibre3.8 g
Protein9.9 g
Fat2.6 g
Saturated fat1.1 g
Sodium394 mg

The numbers that matter on a training day

Carb density51%Carbs as a share of the food's weight: how hard it is on the gut at pace.
Glucose to fructose—Glucose with fructose lifts how much carb the gut can take in an hour.
Sodium per 100 kcal141 mgSalt for the energy it carries; sweat loses 300 to 600 mg an hour.
Energy density11.7 kJ/gEnergy you carry per gram, when grams in the pocket matter.
Servings for 60 g an hour1.2How many an hour for a 60 g carb baseline.
Glycaemic profileWith 51g of carbs per serving, these bagels likely have a high glycemic index, promoting rapid blood sugar spikes and quick glycogen replenishment.

How we read foods ›

For endurance who it suits

Endurance verdict

Woolworths Plain Bagels are a practical choice for pre-race carb-loading due to their high carbohydrate content. However, they are not suitable for consumption during exercise due to their solid form and potential for causing gastrointestinal distress. Pair with protein-rich foods post-exercise for recovery.

Who it is for

These bagels suit endurance athletes such as marathon runners, cyclists, and triathletes who need to maximize glycogen stores before long events. They are also suitable for athletes engaging in carb-loading phases prior to competitions. Their high carbohydrate content makes them ideal for athletes who have high daily carbohydrate targets.

Best sessions

Ideal for pre-race carb-loading or as a pre-training meal on long run or ride days. Not suitable for high-intensity interval sessions due to slower digestion.

Pros
  • High carbohydrate content for energy
  • Moderate protein supports muscle maintenance
  • Vegan-friendly and accessible
  • Affordable and widely available
Cons
  • Not suitable for mid-race fueling
  • Potentially high glycemic index
  • Limited sodium for electrolyte replacement
Watch out for
  • May cause GI distress if consumed during exercise
  • High glycemic index may lead to blood sugar spikes

Fuelling science in short

During a session

Not recommended during workouts due to solid form and slower gastric emptying. Better suited for pre-workout consumption.

Glycaemic profile

With 51g of carbs per serving, these bagels likely have a high glycemic index, promoting rapid blood sugar spikes and quick glycogen replenishment.

Electrolytes

Contains 394mg of sodium per serving, which is below the recommended 300-600mg/hr for athletes. Potassium content is unspecified.

Carb breakdown
Total carbs
51 g
Hourly capacity
60

Race day before, during and after

Suits it for
  • BeforeUSE
  • DuringDO NOT USE
  • AfterUSE
  • Carb loadUSE
  • Every dayUSE

Pre-race: High carb content supports glycogen loading. During race: Solid form unsuitable for quick digestion. Recovery: Offers carbs but lacks protein, so pair with protein-rich foods. Carb-loading: High carb density supports daily targets. Everyday training: Suitable as a carbohydrate source.

Consume 1-2 bagels 2-3 hours before race start to maximize glycogen stores. Pair with a protein source to balance macronutrient intake.

Pair it with
  • Nut butter for added protein and fats
  • Banana for additional carbohydrates and potassium
  • Greek yogurt for protein post-exercise recovery

For practitioners the evidence

Evidence grade: B — Supported by studies on carbohydrate intake and performance, though specific to bagels is limited.

In a carb load

Woolworths Plain Bagels have a high carbohydrate density of 51g per 100g, making them suitable for carb-loading. A single bagel contributes 51g towards the 600-840g daily carbohydrate target for a 70kg athlete. Consuming 10-12 bagels would meet the target but may be impractical due to volume and potential GI discomfort. Their high glycemic index facilitates rapid glycogen replenishment, but the solid form may cause satiety before reaching carb-loading goals.

Digestion and absorption

The bagels undergo a standard digestive process, starting with mastication and salivary amylase action. Gastric emptying is moderate due to their solid form, potentially slowed by the presence of fat. Carbohydrates are primarily absorbed in the small intestine via SGLT1 transporters for glucose. The high glycemic index suggests a rapid insulin response, promoting glycogen storage. Unabsorbed residue may cause fermentation in the colon, posing a risk for GI distress.

Recovery

Post-exercise, these bagels provide carbohydrates for glycogen resynthesis but lack sufficient protein to stimulate muscle protein synthesis. Pairing with a protein source is recommended to meet the 0.3-0.4g/kg protein target. The bagels' sodium content is moderate, aiding in rehydration but insufficient as a standalone electrolyte source. They offer no significant anti-inflammatory or antioxidant benefits.

Downsides

The high glycemic index may cause blood sugar volatility, leading to potential rebound hypoglycemia if consumed pre-exercise. The solid form can cause GI distress if consumed during intense activity due to slower gastric emptying. The carbohydrate source is primarily glucose, so exceeding 60g/h without fructose may limit absorption. The sodium content is below the recommended intake for athletes, potentially affecting hydration.

Don't use it when
  • Do not use during races due to solid form and risk of GI distress.
  • Avoid if gluten or soy intolerant due to allergen content.
  • Limit use if prone to blood sugar spikes from high-GI foods.
Clinical risks
  • High glycemic index may cause rebound hypoglycemia if consumed pre-exercise without proper timing.
  • Solid form can lead to GI distress during high-intensity exercise.
  • Insufficient sodium for athletes with high sweat rates, risking dehydration.
  • Potential for fermentation-related GI issues if consumed in excess.

Questions about Plain Bagels 4 pk

How many carbs are in Plain Bagels 4 pk by Woolworths?

51 g of carbs per serving (1 bagel (approx. 100g)), with 279 kcal and 9.9 g protein.

When should I eat Woolworths Plain Bagels?

Consume them 2-3 hours before endurance events for optimal glycogen loading. Avoid during exercise due to their solid form.

How many bagels should I eat for carb-loading?

Depending on your carbohydrate needs, 1-2 bagels can contribute significantly to your daily carb target. Adjust based on total daily intake goals.

Can I use these bagels during a race?

No, the solid form and slower digestion make them unsuitable for mid-race consumption.

What are some alternatives for mid-race fueling?

Consider gels or chews that provide quick-digesting carbohydrates and electrolytes for mid-race energy.

Are there any allergens in these bagels?

Yes, they contain gluten and soy, which may affect those with allergies.

How do these bagels support recovery?

They provide carbohydrates for glycogen replenishment but should be paired with protein for effective recovery.

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