The Science Behind High Molecular Carbohydrates
- By Caitlin Chock
- Published Apr. 6, 2012
- Updated Apr. 9, 2012 at 10:32 AM UTC
Taking The Pancreas Out Of The Equation
Being metabolized differently than any other sugar, this Superstarch is broken down in the intestines rather than the stomach due to its high molecular weight. It also negates insulin being produced and released by the pancreas, meaning there is no sudden spiking and dropping of insulin levels, which athletes feel as a burst of energy quickly trailed by a crash.
Another benefit of insulin not being released is that the body is triggered into burning fat stores already present for energy rather than first breaking down and metabolizing the newly ingested sugars. Even a 180-lb male athlete with a mere 3% body fat carries 22,000 calories worth of energy; that alone could carry one through even an intense, prolonged workout or race such as a marathon.
FILED UNDER: Nutrition TAGS: Amy Yoder Begley / carbohydrate consumption / Generation UCAN / Meb Keflezighi / race fueling / Sports Drinks