I was thinking about using one of those energy gel sachets during my ride to help me on a grueling uphill section towards the end of my ride. Does anyone know how long it takes for the gel to be digested and available for use by the body? Assuming an empty stomach, how long before the start of the section should I consume the gel?
Energy Gels
- Thread starter pip ryder
- Start date
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Scruffmonster
Über Member
- Location
- London/Kent
30 Minutes.
Though recent studies have shown that a swish of carbohydrate drink can trick the body into producing an instant kick of energy. Cheaper, way cheaper.
Source - http://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/Science-Stories/Ever-Wondered/Sci-Media/Video/Ever-Wondered-Episode-1
Though recent studies have shown that a swish of carbohydrate drink can trick the body into producing an instant kick of energy. Cheaper, way cheaper.
Source - http://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/Science-Stories/Ever-Wondered/Sci-Media/Video/Ever-Wondered-Episode-1
johnr
Über Member
- Location
- Grand depart 2014 county (east)
I think it depends on the gel. I like High 5s and I think they kick in after a few minutes; I've had zipvit and mulebars ones too - they're a lot stickier and I think take 10 mins or so to work. There may well be a psychological impact, but I think they definitely help.
It might be, though, that you'd be better off fuelling up through your ride.
It might be, though, that you'd be better off fuelling up through your ride.
HLaB
Marie Attoinette Fan
I think it depends on the individual but I like to take one after I've done 90% of the ride, say with 10 miles left. Anything I've taken (Except EPO ;-) ) takes around 5-10 minutes to get into my system at a guess.
Broadside
Guru
- Location
- Fleet, Hants
5-10 mins before they kick in for me.