The main function of energy glue is to provide the body with easily absorbed sugar and replenish electrolytes during the competition. Muscle glycogen and liver glycogen in the human body are not enough to support the faster completion of the whole marathon even if they are full. The faster the speed, the more inclined the body is to use glycogen as energy.
In addition to storing glycogen as much as possible before the competition, we should continue to consume sugar during the competition to provide energy for the body. In fact, it is almost impossible for us to get enough sugar by drinking so many sports drinks during the competition, so eating energy glue is a good way to supplement sugar.
Because the brain's sense of energy regulation comes from blood sugar content. Muscle exercise consumes blood sugar, and when the brain receives this signal, it will produce hypoglycemia feedback such as dizziness. At this time, eating energy gel can alleviate the drop of blood sugar and keep the brain awake, but it has limited help to muscle exercise.
Extended data:
Main components of energy glue
1, maltose and fructose: according to different tastes, a single energy glue contains about 70%-80% maltose and 20%-30% fructose.
This ratio of maltose to fructose is very similar to that of sugar contained in natural fruits and vegetables. Maltose has a characteristic, high carbohydrate content and low sugar content, which is conducive to stabilizing the glycemic index.
2, amino acids: energy glue generally contains basic amino acids needed by the human body, their role is to fight muscle fatigue. Histidine can resist the ache caused by anti-keratin antibody (AKA) produced by the body, thus enhancing the durability of muscles.
3. Branched-chain amino acids (BCAA), leucine, valine and isoleucine work together to synthesize tissue protein, which can repair the slight injury of muscle tissue after exercise.
4. Citric acid: When muscles feel tired after long-term exercise, the cyclic chemical metabolism of citric acid in the body is started, and amino acids, glucose and fatty acids are recalled to form ATP to maintain the body's operation. Adding citric acid to energy gel can speed up this process.
5. Antioxidants: Antioxidants are mainly vitamin E and vitamin C, which can slow down the oxidation process of the body (that is, the complex internal chemical reactions that make you feel tired). Adding antioxidants to energy gel can also slow down the damage of muscle cells and prolong endurance.
6. Electrolyte: In most endurance sports goods, electrolyte is always one of the essential keys. It can replenish electrolytes such as salt lost by sweating in time and maintain electrolyte balance in the body.
Therefore, the energy glue will also contain a certain amount of electrolytes, including potassium ions and sodium ions, which are consistent with the proportion in the human body.
7. Pectin: The main function of pectin is to keep the taste of energy glue as liquid food. Pectin, as a soluble dietary fiber, can also delay the digestion of energy glue, which has a certain degree of "slow release" effect and better provides energy for runners in long-distance running.
8. Caffeine: Not all energy glues contain caffeine, but most brands of energy glues have single and double versions of caffeine for each flavor.
20-40 milligrams of caffeine can make you forget the pain of your body for a while and concentrate on finishing the final sprint in the most difficult stage of the marathon.
Popular Science China-Running North Horse, which is better, edible energy glue or energy bar?