What Makes SiS Gels Different: The Isotonic Advantage
SiS (Science in Sport) stands out in the crowded sports nutrition market primarily due to its isotonic technology, first introduced with the GO Isotonic Energy Gel series. This innovation was a game-changer because it eliminated the need for athletes to consume extra water with their gels to aid digestion, a common and often uncomfortable requirement with thicker, hypertonic gels.
How Isotonic Technology Works
An isotonic solution has a similar concentration of salts and carbohydrates to the human body's fluids. By matching this concentration, SiS gels can pass quickly from the stomach to the small intestine for rapid absorption, minimizing the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) distress, bloating, or cramping. The primary carbohydrate source for the GO gels is maltodextrin, derived from maize, which offers a fast and easily digestible energy supply.
SiS GO Isotonic Energy Gels: The Core Product
The original GO Isotonic Energy Gel provides a convenient 22 grams of carbohydrates per 60ml sachet, designed for quick energy delivery during exercise. Its watery, non-syrupy consistency makes it easy to swallow, a significant advantage during high-intensity efforts or in hot weather. However, the larger volume required for a standard dose means carrying a sufficient supply can be cumbersome for some athletes, particularly those using small running belts.
The Evolved Fuel: SiS Beta Fuel Series
For longer, more intense efforts, SiS developed the Beta Fuel range. This series is engineered to deliver a higher carbohydrate load more efficiently, pushing the boundaries of how many carbs an athlete can absorb per hour.
Dual-Source Carbohydrates
The Beta Fuel gels feature an advanced 1:0.8 ratio of maltodextrin to fructose, allowing the body to oxidize carbohydrates more efficiently—up to 74% compared to the older 2:1 ratio. This dual-source approach utilizes two separate carbohydrate transporters in the gut, enabling a higher total carbohydrate intake of 80-120g per hour without causing stomach issues. Each Beta Fuel gel delivers a substantial 40g of carbohydrates in a single serving.
Beta Fuel Variants
The Beta Fuel line includes several specialized options:
- Standard Beta Fuel Gel: Optimized for high-carb intake during efforts over two hours.
- Beta Fuel with Electrolytes: Combines the high-carb formula with key electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium) to help with hydration.
- Beta Fuel with Nootropics: Adds cognitive-enhancing ingredients like caffeine, citicoline, and L-theanine alongside the dual-carb blend to boost mental performance during fatiguing stages of exercise.
SiS Gels: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | GO Isotonic Energy Gel | GO Electrolyte Gel | Beta Fuel Gel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates per gel | 22g | 22g | 40g |
| Carbohydrate Source | Maltodextrin | Maltodextrin | Maltodextrin:Fructose (1:0.8) |
| Electrolytes | Low (negligible) | Yes (Sodium, Potassium, Magnesium) | Optional (Electrolyte variant) |
| Caffeine | No | No | Optional (Nootropics variant) |
| Water Required | No | No | Recommended for chasing high intake |
| Best For | Fast energy, shorter efforts (<90 min) | Replenishing electrolytes, hot weather | Long-distance events (>2 hr), high energy needs |
Pros and Cons of Using SiS Gels
Advantages
- Easy Digestion: The isotonic nature of the GO series is a major benefit, significantly reducing the likelihood of digestive issues that can plague endurance athletes.
- Convenience: All SiS gels are designed to be consumed quickly and easily from their tear-off sachets while on the move.
- No Water Required (GO Isotonic): The flagship GO gels can be taken without water, making them practical for athletes who don't want to carry bulky bottles.
- Varied Formulas: SiS offers specialized gels with added electrolytes for hydration and caffeine for a mental boost, allowing for a tailored fueling strategy.
- Trusted by Elites: The brand is widely used and trusted by professional athletes across various disciplines.
Disadvantages
- Bulky Size: The high water content means GO gels are larger than many competitors for the same amount of carbohydrates, which can be an issue for athletes with limited pocket space.
- Higher Intake Volume: For events requiring more than 60g of carbs per hour, multiple GO gels are needed, increasing the volume of liquid to consume.
- Subjective Taste: While many find the flavors palatable and not overly sweet, taste is subjective, and some flavors may not appeal to everyone.
- Packet Difficulty (Beta Fuel): Some users report the Beta Fuel packets can be a bit tricky to open quickly during a race.
How to Incorporate SiS Gels into Your Fueling Strategy
A solid fueling plan is crucial for endurance performance. Start by testing your gel tolerance during training to avoid race-day surprises.
- Pre-Exercise: Consider taking a SiS gel 15-30 minutes before high-intensity efforts lasting less than 90 minutes to top off glycogen stores.
- During Exercise (90+ minutes): Aim for a carbohydrate intake of 60-90g per hour. A typical strategy for longer events might involve:
- GO Isotonic Gels: Consume one gel every 20-30 minutes, especially for efforts up to 2 hours.
- Beta Fuel Gels: For longer efforts (>2 hours) or higher intensity, use Beta Fuel gels, consuming 2-3 per hour, but sip them gradually to avoid stomach distress.
- Electrolyte Gels: In hot conditions or during heavy sweating, alternate between standard gels and an electrolyte gel.
- Caffeine Gels: Reserve caffeinated gels for the latter stages of long races to combat fatigue and improve focus.
- Carry and Dispose Properly: The easy-tear design is effective, but always remember to properly dispose of your gel wrappers.
For a more detailed strategy, consider consulting a comprehensive guide such as the Running Nutrition Guide from Science In Sport.
Conclusion: Are SiS Gels Right for You?
SiS gels offer a highly effective and easily digestible fueling solution for endurance athletes, leveraging their isotonic technology to minimize stomach issues. The range, from the standard GO gels to the advanced Beta Fuel series, provides versatile options for different race durations and intensities. While some find the packaging bulky, the benefit of hassle-free consumption without extra water is a significant advantage. Ultimately, the best way to determine if SiS gels are right for your needs is to test them extensively during your training runs and rides. By practicing your fueling strategy, you can find the right balance of flavor, format, and formulation to maximize your performance on race day.
