G fuel is an energy drink formula that has become very popular in the market, due to its different flavors and as a sugar-free alternative to traditional energy drinks. It is made without additives or chemicals and was created by Gamma Labs, a brand that produces all kinds of sugar-free energy drinks. It was initially launched in a caffeinated powder format, later they expanded its line to include a carbonated canned version and a hydration formula.
Containing natural ingredients with a good source of energy-promoting vitamins, it helps maintain prolonged endurance during intense workouts, plus it contains synergistic ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, acetyl-L-carnitine, tyrosine, and ATP disodium that increase performance. However, it cannot be expected to offer the same results as a traditional training supplement in high-intensity sports, as it takes 15 minutes to activate, therefore, it is a good choice for sports that do not need an immediate boost.
What type of sports is G FUEL designed for?
The original goal in creating G fuel was to create a healthier alternative to sugar-laden energy drinks that meets even the high standards of the most active lifestyles. It is mainly used by esports athletes, as it increases concentration and reaction time. However, it is also widely used by bodybuilders, athletes, and fitness models to improve focus and endurance.
Thanks to its components it helps to:
- Increase mental concentration and performance.
- Increase strength and physical endurance.
- Minimize fatigue.
- Block drowsiness and sleepiness.
G Fuel Additives broken down
| Additive | info | |
| Taurine | – Amino acid – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects – Boosts energy performance – Improves heart health – It may regulate adipose-tissue-derived factors – useful in a weight-loss diet the amino acids do technically break a fast, but the insulin response is minimum (spike similar to that of water), so it will not reduce any of the potential health benefits of fasting* | |
| L- citrulline malate | – can help muscle fatigue and accelerate the recovery – it improves strength and endurance – always check that the supplement does not contain added sugar | |
| Caffeine | – black coffee does not break the fast – it stimulates gastrin and promotes gut activity – it may boost autophagy and ketosis | |
| Glucuronolactone | – natural metabolite in the liver – derived from glucose – antioxidant – it is rapidly processed – as it is a form of sugar, it causes a metabolic response | |
| N-acetyl-L-carnitine HCl | – amino acid – helps the body to make energy from fat – benefits the nervous system | |
| L-tyrosine | – amino acid – helps mood stability – it’s better to take it on an empty stomach | |
| Choline Bitartrate | – molecule similar to vitamin b – also called vitamin J – acts as a precursor for acetylcholine synthesis, a neurotransmitter – enhances athletic performance – reduces cholesterol levels and helps in weight loss – it may boost memory performance | |
| N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine | – amino acid – also called NALT – a highly bio-available form of tyrosine, more water-soluble but with a lower conversion rate to tyrosine in the body – a nootropic precursor necessary to replenish neurotransmitters e.g., epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine – it has anti-stress effects – it limits cognitive impairment incurred by fast-state hunger – it can increase thyroid hormones | |
| Adenosine-5 Triphosphate Disodium Salt (ATP) | – commonly used by athletes as ergogenic aids – reduces muscle fatigue – supplements are not orally bio-available – increases uric acid concentrations | |
| Fruit Powder | – it is dried fruit finely ground – used as a natural flavoring – it contains fruit sugar, then calories – it causes a glycemic and insulin response | |
| Maltodextrin | – raises blood sugar levels higher than table sugar – 4 calories/gram, like sugar – it comes from GMO corn – it can cause side effects like allergic reactions and bacteria associated intestinal disorders | |
| Malic Acid | – alpha-hydroxy acid found in certain fruits – plays a role in the energy production in the body – usually bound with L-citrulline in citrulline malate (L-arginine) components – boosts sports performance – used as a food additive, as medicine for dry mouth, as a skin-care ingredient in cosmetics – it might lower blood pressure – if taken in a supplement with added sugars, it may break a fast | |
| Citric Acid | – alpha-hydroxy acid found in citrus fruits – in its natural form it is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory – it can be made from GMO, and it can derive from a fungus – can cause mold allergies – used as a preservative – if taken in a supplement with added sugars, it may break a fast | |
| Natural Flavors | – flavor enhancers – created from substances extracted from plant or animal sources – a natural flavor mixture may contain chemicals – can contain spices, fruit, herbs, dairy, etc. contains calories | |
| Artificial flavors | – flavor enhancers – created from substances extracted from synthetic chemicals – mimics the taste of natural ingredients even if they are zero-calorie may interfere with the fast as they cause an insulin spike | |
| Silicon Dioxide | – also known as silica or E551 – food additive – it has been shown to help flush out aluminum – some silica supplements contain thiaminase, which can make you lose vitamin B1 faster, and added sugar that can make you break a fast | |
| Acesulfame Potassium | – typically coupled with artificial sweeteners – flavor enhancers, very sweet – stable when heated – it has been shown to disrupt the gut biome it has been linked to cancer and thyroid damage | |
| Sucralose | – sweetener – even it does not cause insulin spikes, it can impact the metabolism stimulates hormone secretion in the gut | |
| FD&C Red #40 | – artificial colorant for food – may be dangerous for the body can cause allergic reactions and other side effects | |
| FD&C Blue #1 | – artificial colorant for food – may be dangerous for the body toxicity has been reported |
What should I drink before playing basketball, soccer, or baseball?
Each team sport is different and factors such as the rules of the game, frequency of games, length of the season, and position-specific requirements can alter nutrition plans.
Although the physical requirements vary according to each team sport, there are common elements. Before starting to play it is important to be hydrated, so you should drink water or an isotonic drink to prevent dehydration. It is also recommended to hydrate during rest periods, mainly with carbohydrate drinks.
How do sports drinks compare to water?
Water is the main component of the human body, which makes up most of the body’s weight and is essential for its proper functioning.
It is involved in many functions such as cellular metabolism, temperature regulation, nerve transmission, oxygen and nutrient transport, and elimination of waste products.
Therefore, optimal physiological functioning will depend on a state of balance between water and electrolytes.
The main routes of water loss are urine, feces, and sweat, however, we also lose water through our skin and the air we exhale. Therefore, to prevent the detrimental impact of fluid loss on exercise performance, it is necessary to replenish the fluid deficit by drinking water regularly.
The main ingredient in sports drinks is water, but they also contain other substances such as carbohydrates and electrolytes. Replenishing electrolytes, especially sodium, prevents dehydration and help improve performance.
On the other hand, the onset of fatigue during prolonged high-intensity exercise is associated with muscle glycogen depletion, reduction in blood glucose concentration, and dehydration, so the improvement in endurance capacity may be a consequence of glycogen sparing.
Carbohydrates present in energy drinks are generally found in the form of sugars such as glucose, sucrose, and fructose, but can also be found in other forms. As for electrolytes, they are mainly sodium and potassium.
Although water consumption is a priority, there are times when, in order to maintain energy levels and optimal hydration during intense training, our bodies need to obtain sugars and electrolytes. The use of these beverages is recommended when practicing high-intensity sports or long-duration exercises.
It is important to consider your exercise habits, duration, and intensity of training because while these beverages may benefit athletes if you are doing light to moderate exercise, you probably do not need to drink sports drinks.
Sports drinks designed for high-intensity physical sports?
Sports drinks are designed to allow the athlete to recover and hydrate during exercise. Not to be confused with energy drinks as they do not contain stimulant substances, they only help to replenish the substances lost during physical activity due to their composition by restoring carbohydrate levels and restoring the electrolyte percentage.
There are a variety of sports drink formulations for different needs. The number of carbohydrates and electrolytes will depend on your activity level. Among the most popular brands are:
The Gatorade Zero version is recommended if you are looking for a hydrating drink without added sugar. It provides a good source of electrolytes and since it contains no carbohydrates it is best used when you want more hydration than water, but without the sugar.
Powerade power water is recommended for intense exercise. It is a sugar-free version containing vitamin B that provides energy.
Other brands of sports drinks with good benefits are:
Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier is a powdered blend of electrolytes, it is considered one of the best in terms of hydration as it contains a specific ratio of potassium, sodium, and glucose thus boosting hydration. In addition, it has a higher number of electrolytes than traditional sports drinks, as well as essential vitamins including vitamin C, B3, B5, B6, and B12.
Maurten Drink Mix 160 is one of the best sports drinks for runners, standing out for containing 40 g of carbohydrates. It is created to better absorb water, salt, and carbohydrates without slowing them down, thanks to its hydrogel technology that converts from liquid to a gel-like substance once it is in the stomach.
NOOMA Organic Sports drink is an organic hydration option for those who want a drink free of artificial additives and sugar. In addition, its electrolytes come from natural sources such as coconut water and sea salt.
Body Armor is considered the best low-calorie drink with an excellent taste thanks to its ingredients that come from fruits, therefore, it does not contain sweeteners, colors, or artificial flavors. It also has a good source of potassium, which helps not only to hydrate but also to prevent cramps.
Hydration strategies should be customized as they play an important role in the performance of athletes during sports activities, which may vary according to the environment, the event, and the athlete.
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