HBCD (highly branched cyclic dextrin) C
Studied only for the rate of gastric emptying; no gain in performance has been shown
Citable fact
«HBCD (highly branched cyclic dextrin)» — evidence level C. Dosage: In the study - a 10% HBCD solution with an osmolality of 150 mOsm/l. For exercise the practical guideline is 30-60 g/h. The dose that improves sports performance has not been determined. Source: PMID 15900642, permanent link to the source in the list below.
How it works
A highly branched cyclic dextrin is a carbohydrate with a high molecular weight. In a study on ten volunteers, the rate at which the solution passed from the stomach into the intestine was determined by osmolality: 59-160 mOsm/l solutions left faster, and as the HBCD concentration rose, gastric emptying slowed. A 10% HBCD drink brought to 150 mOsm/l with additives emptied faster than a drink with ordinary dextrin at 269 mOsm/l.
Dosage and intake
In the study - a 10% HBCD solution with an osmolality of 150 mOsm/l. For exercise the practical guideline is 30-60 g/h. The dose that improves sports performance has not been determined.
During exercise, in divided doses. For glycogen replenishment - in the first 1-2 hours after exercise.
Forms
HBCD powder. The same substance is sold under the commercial name "cluster dextrin".
What is confirmed
- A drink based on 10% HBCD with an osmolality of 150 mOsm/l emptied from the stomach faster than a drink with ordinary dextrin (269 mOsm/l)
- Allows carbohydrates, fluid and minerals to be replenished in one drink
- Applicable where rapid carbohydrate delivery without a feeling of stomach fullness is important
Adverse effects and limitations
- The study measured a surrogate endpoint - gastric emptying rate - not sports performance
- The work was performed on 10 healthy volunteers with the participation of the raw material manufacturer
- The cost is higher than that of maltodextrin with no proven advantage
Interactions
- Fructose in the mixture accelerates carbohydrate oxidation but increases the osmolality of the solution
- Minerals, vitamins and organic acids change the osmolality of the drink and may either accelerate or slow gastric emptying
Who must not use it
- Under 18 years: Not recommended as a supplement: carbohydrates are easier to obtain from ordinary food.
- Pregnancy and lactation: There are no data on use during pregnancy and lactation; a separate supplement is not needed.
- diabetes mellitus
- insulin resistance
- gastroparesis
Sources
See also
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