Cadence Citrus Gel
- Gel
- 21.2 g carbs per serving
- From Cadence's label
Cadence Citrus Gel has 21.2 g carbs, 86 mg sodium and 37 mg caffeine per serving, from R34.99 a serving at the cheapest size. Value score 7.1/10 (average).
Our Citrus Classic Energy Gel is a scientifically optimised formula for rapid energy delivery. A combination of maltodextrose and fructose, it offers a scientifically validated formulation for maximum energy delivery, ideal for all training sessions and racing.
- Rapid energy delivery
- Improves exercise performance
Decision helper the numbers athletes compare
| Cost score against the Endure average | 5.1/10 |
|---|---|
| 35 products in the category | +0.43σ |
| Multi-source carbs (glucose + fructose) | +1 |
| Electrolytes included (≥50 mg sodium) | +0.5 |
| Caffeine option | +0.5 |
| High carb density without GI flag | +0.5 |
| Requires >2 servings/hr to hit 60 g | -0.5 |
| Value score | 7.1/10 |
On the label per serving, 36g
| Energy | 93 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbs | 21.2 g |
| Sugar | 10.9 g |
| Protein | 0.3 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 86 mg |
| Potassium | 101 mg |
| Caffeine | 37 mg |
| Carb type | Maltodextrin |
| Glucose to fructose | 2:1 |
| Carb sources | Maltodextrin syrup, Fructose |
Who it suits and where it falls short
The Citrus Gel is ideal for endurance athletes who need rapid energy delivery during training and races. It's suitable for runners, cyclists, and triathletes looking for a quick carbohydrate source with added electrolytes and caffeine.
Long runs, Cycling, Triathlons, Intense training sessions
- Rapid energy delivery
- Multi-source carbohydrate blend
- Contains caffeine for mental alertness
- Includes electrolytes
- High cost per serving
- Requires multiple servings to meet hourly carb needs
- Low sodium content
How to use it, by distance
For a 5k race, this gel can provide a quick energy boost if consumed shortly before the start or during the race, especially if you are pushing for a personal best.
In a 10k, consider taking the gel around the halfway mark to maintain energy levels and improve performance.
Use one gel every 30-45 minutes to sustain energy levels throughout the race. Start with one just before the race begins.
For a marathon, plan to consume one gel every 30-45 minutes. Ensure you supplement with additional sodium if running for over 90 minutes.
The science in short
Rapid energy delivery for endurance athletes.
Isotonic — The gel is designed to be consumed without additional water, aiding in rapid absorption.The Citrus Gel offers a rapid energy boost with its dual-source carbohydrate blend and added caffeine. While it provides effective energy delivery, the high cost per serving and low sodium content are notable drawbacks. Ideal for mid-race consumption, especially in shorter events or when supplemented with additional sodium in longer races.
The gel uses a dual-source carbohydrate matrix, combining maltodextrin and fructose. This allows for enhanced carbohydrate absorption via both SGLT1 and GLUT5 transporters, maximizing energy delivery during endurance activities.
The primary limitation is the cost per serving, which is relatively high, and the need for multiple servings to meet optimal carbohydrate intake during prolonged efforts.
Each 36g serving provides 21.2g of carbohydrates, suitable for short to medium-length races but requires frequent consumption in longer events.
0.59g carbs per gram — typical for energy gels, providing a concentrated source of carbohydrates.
Multi-source (2 carbs: Maltodextrin, Fructose). Uses both SGLT1 and GLUT5 transporters, supporting up to ~90 g/h absorption.
Maltodextrin — glucose pathway (SGLT1); Fructose — fructose pathway (GLUT5)
86mg sodium, 101mg potassium per serving. Below the recommended 300-600mg Na/hr, so additional sodium may be needed for longer events.
2:1 — multi-source blend lifts the absorption ceiling beyond the SGLT1-only 60 g/h limit.
Approximately 2.8 servings per hour to reach 60g of carbs, considering the 21.2g per serving.
- ⚡ High spike risk — best used mid-effort, not while stationary. Risk of rebound hypoglycemia.
- 🧂 Low sodium content — supplement with salt tabs for runs over 90 mins.
Sizes and where to buy
Questions about Citrus Gel
How many carbs are in Cadence Citrus Gel?
21.2 g of carbs per serving (36g), with 86 mg sodium and 37 mg caffeine, from Cadence's label.
What does Cadence Citrus Gel cost per serving?
From R34.99 a serving at the cheapest size, which buys 6.1 g of carbs per R10.
Compare with gels close in carbs
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Racing with Citrus Gel? Put it in your plan.
Glyco places it on your race course by time, at the rate your gut can take, and tracks what you actually used.
