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naidu
05-24-2006, 12:22 AM
Most of the forum members are talking about energy bars/gels. So let us talk about what are energy bars and how to chose an energy bar?
The word 'energy' on any label simply means that the food supplies calories, not that eating it will make you more energetic. I mostly stick to eating healthy, whole foods like fruits and vegetables. Because natural foods contain the good stuff not added to most bars.

Energy Bars:
Developed in the '80s for people engaged in high-endurance activities such as hiking or sports involving running, energy bars usually have a mix of simple and complex carbohydrates. Some have moderate fat levels, while others contain quite a bit of fat. Many are vitamin- and mineral-enhanced, but those levels can vary widely between brands.

Nutrition bars
The line is fuzzy between energy bars and nutrition bars, but often nutrition bars have a bit less sugar and a little more vitamin enhancement. They can be used for meal replacements, but it’s important to also incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into meal planning.

Meal replacement bars
The name is self-explanatory. These are designed to replace a meal so they contain a meal’s worth of calories. However, they’re easily digested so it’s a good idea to pair them with a piece of fruit so you’re not ravenous before the next meal.

moor2k6
05-24-2006, 12:13 PM
energy gels r really great ,taste them .....
Glycogen depletion
The amount of muscle glycogen depletion after exercise is a potent stimulator of glycogen production (10). In fact, low glycogen concentrations in the muscle increase both the rate limiting enzyme for glycogen synthesis, glycogen synthase, as well as the permeability of the muscle cell for glucose uptake. Put in simple terms, muscles are much more ‘hungry' after a strenuous 2-hour workout versus a moderate 45 minute workout.
Timing/Feeding Schedule
Replacing glycogen stores depends not only on what you eat, but when you eat it. The timing of carbohydrate consumption after exercise is crucial in achieving optimal results. This particular topic is explained in more detail later in the article.


Energy gels are best described as a hybrid of sports drinks and energy bars. Combining aspects of both, gels are power-packed with a super concentrated dose of carbohydrates contained in a palatable and viscous consistency. Because of their quick absorption into the bloodstream, gels are preferred by many athletes because they are not “heavy on the stomach.” Energy gels are unlikely to cause gastrointestinal distress which can sometimes be associated with drinks or bars.