UCAN Edge: A Different Kind of Fuel
Unlike many conventional energy gels that provide a quick sugar spike and crash, the UCAN Edge is engineered for stable, long-lasting energy. Its core ingredient is LIVSTEADY™, a proprietary, slow-releasing complex carbohydrate derived from non-GMO cornstarch. This unique composition is the primary reason it does not contain added electrolytes, as its purpose is to deliver energy without the gastric distress and metabolic fluctuations common with sugar-based fuels.
The Purpose of UCAN Edge vs. Electrolyte Products
UCAN's product line is intentionally designed to separate fueling and hydration needs, allowing athletes to tailor their intake precisely.
- UCAN Edge: Serves as a sustained energy source. It provides the necessary carbohydrates to power through long workouts or races without causing significant blood sugar spikes. This enables the body to rely more on fat for fuel, a desirable metabolic state for endurance athletes. The simple, non-viscous formula, which doesn't require water for digestion, further sets it apart from traditional gels.
- UCAN Hydrate: A separate product specifically for electrolyte replenishment. It contains five essential electrolytes—sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride—to replace what is lost through sweat. It is zero-sugar, zero-calorie, and naturally sweetened, designed to be mixed with water to meet hydration needs independently of fueling.
Comparing UCAN Edge and UCAN Hydrate
Here is a comparison outlining the key differences between these two products:
| Feature | UCAN Edge (Energy Gel) | UCAN Hydrate (Electrolyte Powder) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Sustained energy fuel | Electrolyte replacement and hydration |
| Key Ingredient | LIVSTEADY™ cornstarch | 5 essential electrolytes |
| Added Sugar | 0g | 0g |
| Calories | Approximately 70-80 kcal per pouch | 0 kcal per serving |
| Electrolytes | Contains trace amounts of sodium (approx. 50mg) depending on the flavor, but no full electrolyte profile. | Full profile of sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and chloride. |
| Packaging | Ready-to-consume gel pouch | Powder mix in tubs or stickpacks |
| Water Required | No, has a liquidy consistency | Yes, must be mixed with water |
| Usage | 30 minutes before, then every 60-90 minutes during extended exercise. | Before, during, and after workouts, especially in hot conditions. |
Why Separate Fuel and Hydration?
This two-product approach is a deliberate strategy by UCAN to provide more controlled nutrition for athletes. By separating energy and electrolytes, users can adjust their intake of each component independently, based on the specific demands of their activity and personal sweat rate. For instance, a runner on a cooler day may require less electrolyte supplementation than on a hot, humid day, but their energy needs might remain the same. This system allows for precision fueling, which can help prevent gastrointestinal distress that can arise from an unbalanced mix of carbs and minerals.
Optimal Use for Athletes
Endurance athletes, in particular, can benefit from this strategy. They might take a UCAN Edge gel 30 minutes before a long run for a steady energy release, and then use UCAN Hydrate in their water bottle to replenish minerals and fluid throughout the activity. This combination ensures stable blood sugar from the LIVSTEADY carbohydrate while preventing cramps and dehydration through the balanced electrolyte drink. The separation gives athletes the flexibility to manage these two distinct nutritional needs for optimized performance. An optimal fueling plan might involve consuming UCAN Edge pre-workout and intermittently during long efforts, while consistently sipping on UCAN Hydrate for mineral balance. For example, a marathon runner might take one Edge gel at the start, one at the 60-minute mark, and another at the 120-minute mark, while simultaneously consuming their Hydrate mix as needed throughout the race. This prevents a large, sudden carbohydrate load while keeping electrolyte levels stable, avoiding both energy crashes and cramping.
Conclusion
In summary, the UCAN Edge energy gel does not contain a full electrolyte profile and is designed exclusively for delivering sustained energy via its LIVSTEADY carbohydrate. While it may contain a small amount of sodium depending on the flavor, it is not intended for mineral replacement. For hydration and replacing electrolytes lost through sweat, athletes should use UCAN Hydrate, a separate, zero-calorie product with a comprehensive mineral profile. This two-part approach provides athletes with greater control over their nutrition, helping to prevent energy crashes, GI issues, and dehydration for better overall performance.
