Fast Release Carbohydrates
Description
While carbohydrate is the body’s primary source of energy, the speed at which ingested food is available to the muscles as glycogen (energy) depends entirely on the type of carbohydrate. Fast release carbohydrates, also referred to as simple carbohydrates, convert to energy very quickly.
While we are often told to avoid simple carbohydrates, there are three primary occasions when they are actually an advantage:
Pre-training: It is too late to have a carbohydrate source that digests slowly as the training session will be finished long before the food is converted to energy. Fast release carbohydrates solve this issue, with an almost immediate supply of energy.
During training: As with pre-training, the only fuel source that can be used as energy during a session is fast release carbohydrates. They are ideal for particularly intense sessions, or sessions of a long duration.
Post-workout: When training has finished, this is an ideal time to replace the fuel that the body has used throughout the session. Fast release carbohydrates replace fuel as quickly as is possible. The increase in insulin levels that fast release carbohydrates result in, can help shuttle nutrients (including protein for muscle growth) into the muscles.
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Fast Release Carbohydrates FAQS
Fast-release carbohydrate supplements are exactly that - they get the job done fast, so you have more energy as quickly as possible. Depending on what type of food you ingest, it can sometimes take a while for that to convert to energy. With fast release carb supplements, the rate of conversion from food to energy is high, so you get an instant boost.
Fast acting carbs are a quick way to give yourself a jumpstart for a training session, either just before or during a workout. They can also quickly replenish your fuel source after you’re done. We’re often told to avoid carbs like this - simple carbohydrates are commonly associated with sugar. However, there can be advantages to taking them, particularly if you feel your energy levels have dipped close to or during a workout, and a slow-release carb is no longer an option.
For fast-release carbs, undoubtedly the best time to take them is just before a workout, or during, especially if it is a particularly intense one and you’re pushing yourself. They can also be a quick way of replenishing your energy stores just after your workout, especially if you train in the morning. Fast-release carb supplements are easy to implement into your routine, and you’re good to take them every day. They should work alongside a healthy and balanced diet, and for fast-release carbs, it’s best to use them around your workout for maximum impact.
Simple carbohydrates are those that release quickly and give you spikes in energy - so think sugar, dried fruits and berries. Complex carbohydrates are usually found in more substantial foods, like potatoes or oats, and the energy they provide releases more slowly, but over a longer period.
The best fast release carb products

Best selling
Vitargo
A clear bestseller, Vitargo® is an ideal supplement for athletes and trainers who want to up their carbohydrate consumption, whether for a weight gain programme or in preparation for race day. With 69.8g of rapidly absorbing carbs in a single 75g serving, this is appropriate for strength and endurance athletes who need optimal carb replenishment before, during and after intensive workouts.

Top rated
Dextrose
Held in high esteem, this 100% pure dextrose powder is the fast-acting supplement you might want to use for that energy boost pre-workout. A simple sugar that is commonly added to sports energy drinks, it’s an ideal carbohydrate source for after your workout too, to help you replenish. Our dextrose powder allows you to add it to your own favourite formula or DIY recovery blend.

Favourite
Complete Hydration Drink
Our Hydration Drink is exactly that. Premium, made from superior ingredients, and providing you with a rich blend of fast release carbohydrates, instant BCAAs, vitamin B6 and electrolytes. It’s carefully balanced to provide optimum nutrition for endurance athletes and prolonged exercise. Plus, because it’s in a formula, you can mix it to your personal requirements, whether hypotonic, isotonic or hypertonic.