Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Blackcurrant)

Gel
22 g carbs per serving
From Science In Sport's label

The short answer

Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Blackcurrant) has 22 g carbs, 10 mg sodium per serving, from R44 a serving at the cheapest size. Value score 2.9/10 (poor value).

Carbs22g

Sodium10mg

CaffeineNone

Per servingR44

About it

Easily digestible by the stomach providing energy fast. No need for additional water. Convenient form-factor for versatile fuelling. A liquid carbohydrate energy gel created using maltodextrin. Officially the World's first Isotonic Energy Gel and Winner of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2015. It continues to be a go-to energy source for elite athletes worldwide.

Used as part of your fuelling strategy
the GO Isotonic Energy Gel can help you maintain your pace for longer
Isotonic formula means no need for additional water or fluids
Easily & quickly absorbed by the stomach
providing energy fast
No artificial flavours

Decision helper the numbers athletes compare

Value score2.9/10Poor value

Cost score against the Endure average	3.4/10
35 products in the category	+1.07σ
Requires >2 servings/hr to hit 60 g	-0.5
Value score	2.9/10

About $0.108 a gram of carbs, at R18.50 to the dollar.How we score ›

Price per g carbR2Poor value · 3.4/10Cost vs live Endure average (z-score)41% pricier than the category average

Price per 100 g carbR200Premium / PoorCost to buy 100 g of carbohydrate fuel — easier to compare than per-gram

Carb density36,7%Drink-likeCarbs as % of serving weight — affects gut load

Sodium per 100 kcal11 mgPremium / PoorElectrolyte adequacy vs 300–600 mg Na/hr target

Caffeine per servingNoneStimulant dose per serving

Servings for 60 g an hour2,7AverageServings/hour to hit the 60 g/hr fuelling target

On the label per serving, 60ml

Energy	87 kcal
Carbs	22 g
Sugar	0.5 g
Protein	0 g
Fat	0 g
Sodium	10 mg
Potassium	0 mg
Caffeine	0 mg
Carb type	Maltodextrin
Glucose to fructose	1:0
Carb sources	Maltodextrin

Who it suits and where it falls short

Who it is for

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is ideal for endurance athletes such as marathon runners, long-distance cyclists, and triathletes who need a quick source of carbohydrates without additional hydration. It's particularly suited for athletes who prefer a gel that doesn't require water, making it convenient for those in competitive environments or during training sessions where water stops are limited. Additionally, it's beneficial for athletes with sensitive stomachs who require an easily digestible carbohydrate source.

Best sessions

long runs over 90 minutes, tempo runs, cycling intervals, brick workouts, triathlon race simulations

Pros

Isotonic formula eliminates need for additional water.
Rapid energy delivery from maltodextrin.
Convenient gel form for easy mid-race consumption.
Low sugar content reduces risk of GI distress.
No artificial flavors, appealing to natural ingredient seekers.

Cons

Single-source carb limits absorption to 60g/hour.
Low sodium content requires additional electrolyte supplementation.
High cost per gram of carbohydrate.
Limited flavor variety may not suit all palates.

Race day

How to use it, by distance

For a 5k race, the gel may not be necessary due to the short duration. However, consuming one gel 15 minutes before the start can provide an energy boost.

The science in short

Primary use

Ideal for endurance athletes requiring quick energy without additional hydration.

Isotonic — The gel's formulation matches the body's natural osmolality, facilitating rapid gastric emptying and absorption without additional water, crucial for maintaining hydration balance during exertion.

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a solid choice for athletes needing quick energy without the hassle of additional hydration. However, its single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates, and its low sodium content requires athletes to supplement with additional electrolytes. The gel's isotonic nature is a strong selling point, ensuring rapid absorption and minimal gastrointestinal distress. While convenient and easy to consume, the high cost per gram of carbohydrate and limited flavor options may deter some athletes.

Why it works

The gel uses maltodextrin, a glucose polymer that is rapidly absorbed through the SGLT1 transport pathway in the intestines. This allows for quick energy delivery. The isotonic nature ensures that the gel is absorbed efficiently without needing additional water, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal distress.

The trade-off

The gel's single-source carbohydrate limits the maximum carbohydrate absorption rate to approximately 60g per hour, potentially requiring more frequent consumption for high-intensity or long-duration efforts.

Serving

Each 60ml serving delivers 22g of carbohydrates, which is below the typical 30-60g per hour recommendation, necessitating multiple servings.

Carb density

0.367 g/ml, which is typical for isotonic gels but lower than hypertonic formulations.

Carb matrix

The product uses a single-source carbohydrate, maltodextrin, which limits absorption to the SGLT1 pathway.

Carb types

Maltodextrin — glucose pathway (SGLT1)

Electrolytes

With only 10mg of sodium per gel, it falls significantly short of the 300-600mg/hr typically lost through sweat, necessitating additional electrolyte supplementation.

Glucose to fructose

1:0 — This limits carbohydrate absorption to the SGLT1 pathway, capping effective intake at around 60g/hour.

Hourly capacity

3 gels = 66g carbs, within 60-90g/hr ceiling for single-source carbs.

⚡ High spike risk — best mid-effort. Risk of rebound hypoglycemia.
🔒 Single-source carb — limited to ~60g/hour via SGLT1 only.

Using it in training and racing

Flavour and feel

acidity: moderate — Balanced with citric acid, providing a slight tang.
summary: The blackcurrant flavor is refreshing and not overly sweet, making it palatable even during intense efforts. The texture is smooth and easy to consume on the go.
texture: The gel is easy to squeeze out of the packet, requiring minimal pressure. It dissolves quickly in the mouth with little resistance.
mouthfeel: gel-like — Smooth and easy to swallow, with minimal residue.
sweetness: moderate — Similar to a diluted sports drink, not overly sugary.
aftertaste: clean — Leaves a refreshing finish without lingering flavors.
available flavors: Blackcurrant

How to train your gut

tips: Start with small doses to assess tolerance., Gradually increase gel intake as training progresses., Pair with electrolytes to balance sodium levels., Practice consuming gels at race pace to mimic conditions.
week 1: Consume 1 gel during two short runs to assess tolerance.
week 2: Increase to 2 gels during a long run to adapt the gut.
week 3: Simulate race conditions with 3 gels during a tempo run.
week 4: Full race simulation with gels every 45 minutes during a long run.

Heat and cold

In heat, the gel maintains its consistency but may become slightly more fluid, making it easier to consume. In cold conditions, the gel thickens slightly but remains squeezable. It is not prone to freezing due to its isotonic formulation.

Packaging

The gel comes in a convenient tear-open packet, designed for easy one-handed use. It fits well in running belts and cycling jersey pockets. Minimal sticky residue is left, ensuring clean handling.

Sustainability

The packaging lacks specific recyclability claims, and there is no information on sourcing transparency or sustainability initiatives from the brand.

Pairs well with

Electrolyte tablets — to compensate for low sodium content.
Protein bars — for post-exercise recovery with added protein.
Hydration packs — to ensure adequate fluid intake during long sessions.

What other athletes say

GO Isotonic Energy Gel is the world's first isotonic gel, requiring no water.
The gel's isotonic nature ensures rapid absorption, minimizing GI distress.
Maltodextrin is a rapidly absorbed glucose polymer, providing quick energy.
Low sodium content necessitates additional electrolyte supplementation.

In depth

## Who It's For

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is designed for endurance athletes who require a quick, convenient source of carbohydrates during prolonged exertion. Its isotonic formula is particularly beneficial for marathon runners, cyclists, and triathletes who need rapid energy without the need for additional hydration. This gel is ideal for those with sensitive stomachs, as it minimizes the risk of gastrointestinal distress often associated with hypertonic solutions.

## Inside the Formulation

This gel's primary carbohydrate source is maltodextrin, a glucose polymer that is rapidly absorbed through the SGLT1 transport pathway. The isotonic nature of the gel means it matches the body's natural osmolality, allowing for efficient gastric emptying and absorption. This is crucial for maintaining hydration and energy levels during intense physical activity. However, the single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates, and the low sodium content requires additional electrolyte supplementation to meet the typical 300-600mg/hr sweat loss.

## On Course: How to Use It

For optimal performance, consume one gel 15 minutes before starting an event or training session. During a marathon, it's advisable to take a gel every 45 minutes to maintain energy levels. For shorter events like a 5k or 10k, a pre-race gel can provide an energy boost. Ensure to balance gel intake with electrolytes and fluids, especially given the low sodium content.

## How It Compares

Compared to other energy gels, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel offers the advantage of not requiring additional water, thanks to its isotonic formulation. However, its reliance on a single carbohydrate source limits its absorption to around 60g per hour, which is lower than multi-source gels that utilize both glucose and fructose pathways. The gel's cost per gram of carbohydrate is relatively high, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious athletes.

## Training Your Gut

To maximize the benefits of the GO Isotonic Energy Gel, it's important to train your gut to tolerate increased carbohydrate intake. Start by consuming one gel during shorter training sessions to assess tolerance. Gradually increase to two or three gels during longer runs or rides. Simulate race conditions by consuming gels at regular intervals during high-intensity workouts.

## The Verdict

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is a reliable choice for athletes seeking a quick energy source without the need for additional hydration. Its isotonic nature ensures rapid absorption and minimal gastrointestinal distress. However, the single-source carbohydrate limits absorption rates, and the low sodium content requires additional electrolyte supplementation. Despite these limitations, the gel's convenience and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any endurance athlete's fueling strategy.

Sizes and where to buy

SizePricePer servingBuy

Single1 × 1 servingR44R44Buy ›

Questions about GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Blackcurrant)

How many carbs are in Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Blackcurrant)?

22 g of carbs per serving (60ml), with 10 mg sodium, from Science In Sport's label.

What does Science In Sport GO Isotonic Energy Gel 60ml - Single Unit (Blackcurrant) cost per serving?

From R44 a serving at the cheapest size, which buys 5 g of carbs per R10.

How many gels should I consume during a marathon?

For a marathon, it's recommended to consume one gel every 45 minutes. This helps maintain energy levels throughout the race. Start with one gel 15 minutes before the race to top off glycogen stores. Ensure to balance gel intake with additional electrolytes due to the low sodium content.

How does this gel compare to other brands?

The GO Isotonic Energy Gel is unique in its isotonic formulation, which eliminates the need for additional water. However, it uses a single-source carbohydrate, limiting absorption rates compared to multi-source gels. Its cost per gram of carbohydrate is relatively high, which might be a consideration for some athletes.

Is there any caffeine in this gel?

No, the GO Isotonic Energy Gel does not contain caffeine. This makes it suitable for athletes who prefer to avoid stimulants or are sensitive to caffeine. If caffeine is desired, it would need to be supplemented separately.

Can this gel be mixed with water?

The gel is designed to be consumed without additional water due to its isotonic nature. Mixing it with water is not necessary and may dilute its effectiveness. However, maintaining overall hydration with water or electrolyte drinks is recommended.

How does temperature affect the gel?

In hot conditions, the gel may become slightly more fluid, making it easier to consume. In cold conditions, it thickens slightly but remains squeezable. It is not prone to freezing, maintaining its usability across a range of temperatures.

How should I train my gut with this gel?

Start with consuming one gel during shorter training sessions to assess tolerance. Gradually increase to two or three gels during longer runs or rides. Simulate race conditions by consuming gels at regular intervals during high-intensity workouts.

Is the gel vegan or allergen-free?

The ingredient list does not contain any animal products, making it suitable for vegans. However, always check the packaging for any allergen warnings or cross-contamination risks if you have specific allergies.

What is the refund policy for this product?

Refund policies can vary by retailer. It's best to check with the specific retailer or the brand's official website for detailed information on returns and refunds. Ensure the product is unopened and within the return period for eligibility.