32Gi Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy has 21 g carbs, 140 mg sodium per serving, from R31.97 a serving at the cheapest size. Value score 4.3/10 (average).
The revolutionary pack, credit card sized, is easy to open and consume. Can be stored without getting sticky all over the place. Never have to worry about a tear off that lands on the ground behind you or sticky gel all over your hands when opening it. Along with the fast release of energy from the Pure Brown Rice Syrup, 32Gi® Sports Gels have added electrolytes in the form of Salt, to assist with hydration. A small amount of Protein is naturally occurring in the Pure Brown Rice Syrup, great for assisting fatiguing muscles.
- Fast acting carbohydrates
- Pure brown rice syrup
- Tummy friendly
- Added sodium for hydration
- Easy snap and consume packaging
- Zero banned substances
Decision helper the numbers athletes compare
| Cost score against the Endure average | 5.3/10 |
|---|---|
| 35 products in the category | +0.19σ |
| Electrolytes included (≥50 mg sodium) | +0.5 |
| GI distress reported | -1 |
| Requires >2 servings/hr to hit 60 g | -0.5 |
| Value score | 4.3/10 |
On the label per serving, 27g
| Energy | 84 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 21 g |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 140 mg |
| Potassium | 0 mg |
| Caffeine | 0 mg |
| Carb type | Maltose |
| Glucose to fructose | 1:0 |
| Carb sources | Natural brown rice syrup |
Who it suits and where it falls short
This product is ideal for endurance athletes who are looking for a quick energy source during their activities. It suits sub-3 marathoners doing 90-minute tempo runs, cyclists engaging in 2-3 hour training rides, and triathletes during the bike leg of an Olympic distance race. Its fast-acting nature makes it suitable for those who need immediate energy replenishment without the complexity of multi-source carbohydrate mixes.
tempo run 90min, long ride 2-3hr, brick session 60min bike + 30min run, interval training 60min, race day simulation 2hr
- Fast acting carbohydrates for immediate energy boost
- Pure brown rice syrup is gentle on the stomach
- Added sodium aids in hydration and electrolyte balance
- Compact and easy-to-open packaging
- No banned substances, ensuring safe consumption
- Single-source carb limits maximum absorption rate
- Lacks fructose, limiting dual transport pathways
- Requires frequent dosing to meet energy needs
- Higher cost per carb compared to some competitors
How to use it, by distance
Not ideal for a 5k due to its quick energy release, which might not be necessary for such a short distance. Focus on hydration instead.
Consider using one gel 15 minutes before the start to ensure glycogen stores are topped off, especially if the race is expected to last close to an hour.
Consume one gel 10 minutes before the race and another at the halfway mark to maintain energy levels. This strategy helps prevent mid-race fatigue.
Start with a gel 10 minutes before the race, then consume one every 45 minutes. This ensures a steady glucose supply, crucial for maintaining pace and preventing the dreaded wall.
The science in short
Best used for short to medium-duration efforts where quick energy is needed.
Hypertonic — The gel's high sugar concentration may slow gastric emptying, which can be mitigated by consuming with water to aid digestion and absorption.32Gi® Sports Gel provides a quick energy boost ideal for short to medium-duration activities. Its single-source glucose matrix limits absorption rates, necessitating more frequent consumption for longer efforts. While it offers a convenient and stomach-friendly option, athletes should be mindful of its limitations in multi-hour events. The added sodium is beneficial for hydration, but the lack of fructose limits its use in maximizing carbohydrate absorption.
The product relies on brown rice syrup, a glucose-based carbohydrate, which is absorbed quickly via the SGLT1 transporter. This rapid absorption is beneficial for immediate energy needs but lacks the dual absorption pathways offered by glucose-fructose combinations, which can enhance carbohydrate oxidation rates.
The main downside is the single-source carbohydrate matrix, which limits the maximum carbohydrate absorption to around 60g per hour, potentially requiring more frequent consumption compared to multi-source products.
Each 27g serving provides 21g of carbohydrates, making it efficient for quick energy but requiring multiple servings for longer efforts.
0.78g per gram, which is dense compared to typical sports gels, aiding in compact energy delivery.
The product uses a single-source carbohydrate, brown rice syrup, which is glucose-based, limiting the absorption pathways.
Brown Rice Syrup — glucose pathway (SGLT1)
Contains 140mg of sodium per serving, which aids in maintaining electrolyte balance during exercise but lacks potassium.
1:0 — This limits the absorption ceiling to about 60g/hour, as it relies solely on glucose transport.
3 gels = 63g carbs, within 60-90g/hr ceiling for glucose-only products.
- Limit to 2-3 servings per hour to avoid gastrointestinal distress.
- Ensure adequate hydration to aid digestion and absorption.
- 🔒 Single-source carb — limited to ~60g/hour absorption rate via SGLT1 only.
Using it in training and racing
- acidity
- low — The gel has a mild acidity, reducing the risk of stomach upset.
- summary
- After 90 minutes in the heat, this gel feels like a reliable, easy-to-consume energy source. The clean aftertaste and moderate sweetness make it a go-to for sustained efforts.
- texture
- The gel is easy to squeeze from the pack, with minimal resistance, and dissolves quickly in the mouth.
- mouthfeel
- gel-like — The texture is smooth and easy to swallow, without being overly sticky.
- sweetness
- moderate — The sweetness is akin to a diluted sports drink, making it palatable during exercise.
- aftertaste
- clean — Leaves a neutral aftertaste that doesn't linger, ideal for continuous consumption.
- available flavors
- tips
- Consume with water to aid digestion and absorption., Test different timing strategies to find optimal energy delivery., Monitor for any gastrointestinal discomfort and adjust accordingly., Practice opening and consuming gels during training to improve efficiency.
- week 1
- Start with one gel per session, twice a week, to gauge tolerance.
- week 2
- Increase to two gels per session, focusing on longer workouts.
- week 3
- Simulate race conditions with three gels during a long run or ride.
- week 4
- Conduct a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake, adjusting as needed.
In hot conditions (>25°C), the gel maintains its consistency, making it easy to consume. In cold (<5°C), the gel may thicken slightly but remains squeezable. It should not be frozen, as this could alter its texture and make it difficult to consume.
The credit card-sized packaging is designed for easy opening and consumption, with a tear notch that minimizes mess. It fits well in running belts and cycling jersey pockets, making it practical for both sports.
- Electrolyte drink for enhanced hydration and sodium replacement.
- Protein bar for post-exercise recovery and muscle repair.
- Caffeine supplement for added focus and endurance on longer sessions.
- 32Gi® claims the gel is formulated with natural brown rice syrup for clean energy.
- The product includes added sodium to assist with hydration, as per brand claims.
- The packaging is designed to be easy to open and consume, reducing mess.
- Brown rice syrup is a glucose-based carbohydrate, limiting absorption pathways.
## Who It's For
32Gi® Sports Gel is crafted for endurance athletes who need a rapid energy boost during their training or races. It's particularly suitable for runners, cyclists, and triathletes who engage in medium-duration activities where quick energy replenishment is crucial. The gel's glucose-based formulation makes it ideal for athletes who prefer a straightforward energy source without the complexity of multi-source carbohydrate blends. Its compact packaging and ease of use make it a practical choice for those who need to refuel on the go.
## Inside the Formulation
The primary ingredient in 32Gi® Sports Gel is natural brown rice syrup, a glucose-based carbohydrate that provides fast-acting energy. This formulation is designed to be gentle on the stomach, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal distress during intense efforts. The gel also includes sodium chloride, providing 140mg of sodium per serving, which helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports hydration. However, the absence of fructose means the gel relies solely on the SGLT1 transporter for glucose absorption, limiting the maximum carbohydrate intake rate.
## On Course: How to Use It
For a 5k race, this gel might not be necessary due to the short duration. However, for a 10k, consuming one gel 15 minutes before the start can help ensure glycogen stores are topped off. In a half marathon, it's advisable to take one gel 10 minutes before the race and another at the halfway mark to maintain energy levels. For marathon runners, a strategic approach would be to start with a gel 10 minutes before the race and then consume one every 45 minutes to ensure a steady supply of glucose.
## How It Compares
Compared to multi-source carbohydrate gels that combine glucose and fructose, 32Gi® Sports Gel is limited by its single-source glucose matrix. This limits the absorption rate to about 60g per hour, as it does not utilize the GLUT5 transporter for fructose. However, its simplicity and ease of digestion make it a reliable option for those who prefer a straightforward energy source. The added sodium is a bonus for maintaining electrolyte balance, although the lack of potassium might require supplementation from other sources.
## Training Your Gut
To effectively use 32Gi® Sports Gel during races, it's important to train your gut. Start in week one by consuming one gel per session, twice a week. In week two, increase to two gels per session, focusing on longer workouts. By week three, simulate race conditions with three gels during a long run or ride. Finally, in week four, conduct a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake, adjusting as needed based on your body's response.
## The Verdict
32Gi® Sports Gel offers a quick and clean energy source for endurance athletes. Its glucose-based formulation is ideal for those seeking immediate energy replenishment without the complexity of multi-source carbohydrate blends. While its single-source matrix limits absorption rates, the gel's ease of use and added sodium make it a practical choice for medium-duration efforts. Athletes should be mindful of its limitations in multi-hour events and consider pairing it with other products to maximize performance. Overall, it's a reliable option for those who value simplicity and convenience in their fueling strategy.
Sizes and where to buy
Questions about Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy
How many carbs are in 32Gi Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy?
21 g of carbs per serving (27g), with 140 mg sodium, from 32Gi's label.
What does 32Gi Sports Gel - Quick Releasing Energy cost per serving?
From R31.97 a serving at the cheapest size, which buys 6.6 g of carbs per R10.
How should I dose 32Gi® Sports Gel during a race?
For optimal performance, consume one gel 10 minutes before the start of your race. During the race, take an additional gel every 45 minutes to maintain energy levels. This strategy helps ensure a steady supply of glucose, preventing energy dips and maintaining pace throughout the event.
How does 32Gi® Sports Gel compare to its main competitor?
32Gi® Sports Gel is primarily glucose-based, offering fast energy release. In contrast, many competitors use a combination of glucose and fructose, which allows for higher carbohydrate absorption rates. However, 32Gi® is gentle on the stomach and includes added sodium for hydration, making it a solid choice for those who prefer simplicity.
Is there caffeine in 32Gi® Sports Gel?
No, 32Gi® Sports Gel does not contain caffeine. This makes it suitable for athletes who wish to avoid caffeine or prefer to manage their caffeine intake separately. If caffeine is desired, consider pairing the gel with a caffeine supplement.
How should I mix or dissolve 32Gi® Sports Gel?
No mixing is required for 32Gi® Sports Gel as it is ready to consume straight from the pack. Simply tear open the packaging and consume the gel directly. Ensure you have water on hand to aid digestion and absorption.
How does 32Gi® Sports Gel behave in heat or cold?
In hot conditions, the gel maintains its consistency, making it easy to consume. In cold weather, it may thicken slightly but remains squeezable. Avoid freezing the gel, as this could alter its texture and make it difficult to consume.
How can I train my gut to handle 32Gi® Sports Gel?
Start with one gel per session, twice a week, to gauge tolerance. Gradually increase to two gels per session, focusing on longer workouts. Simulate race conditions with three gels during a long run or ride. Conduct a full race rehearsal with planned gel intake, adjusting as needed.
Is 32Gi® Sports Gel vegan and free from common allergens?
The gel is made from natural brown rice syrup and does not contain any animal products, making it suitable for vegans. However, always check the packaging for any specific allergen warnings or consult the manufacturer if you have concerns.
What is the refund policy and availability of 32Gi® Sports Gel?
Availability may vary by region and retailer. It's best to check with the store or online platform where you purchase the gel for their specific refund policy. Many retailers offer a satisfaction guarantee, but terms can differ.
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