I have recently been buying GU energy gels and taking them after a workout. I'd read that that juice (sugar) following a workout stops the buildup of lactic acid and helps recovery. I then read that fruit juice is not the best. I then found these energy gels that have 80% complex and 20% simple (maltodextrin) and the claim is that this ratio is ideal. I am doing it to replenish and to manipulate the insulin response (thanks Chucky) to maximize protein entering my muscles so, I take one while drinking a bottle of water, some creatine, and then eat protein like chicken breast or turkey. I eat breakfast and dinner but in between the above I take a rice milk and scoop of whey drink, so..
Breakfast Mid morning Shake Lunch Pre workout Shake GU gel, water, creatine (post workout) then immediate Dinner
I admittedly am new to the concept and wonder is this a correct way for the goal?
I think the idea is to quickly replace glycogen stores by consuming a high glycemic index food and protein shortly after your workout. Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index and is good for this purpose. Read the label of your GU gel though.. some of them contain fructose, if I recall correctly. You should probably take a protein powder instead of eating solid protein to maximize recovery.
I have no idea why creatine would help. Maybe someone else can enlighten us.
If you're really obsessed you can buy pure Maltodextrin powder (search "carbogain" on amazon or google, e.g.) and mix it with protein powder to make your own post-workout drink of whatever carb/protein ratio you desire. it will last for at least a few days, maybe longer. (tip: use hot water and a blender to dissolve the maltodextrin.. and expect to end up wit a sticky mess no matter what you do).
lockedoff saidI think the idea is to quickly replace glycogen stores by consuming a high glycemic index food and protein shortly after your workout. Maltodextrin has a high glycemic index and is good for this purpose. Read the label of your GU gel though.. some of them contain fructose, if I recall correctly. You should probably take a protein powder instead of eating solid protein to maximize recovery.
I have no idea why creatine would help. Maybe someone else can enlighten us.
Creatine is a nitrogenous organic acid that occurs naturally in vertebrates and helps to supply energy to muscle, aiding in recovery (thank you, wikipedia).
