Understanding the UCAN Difference
UCAN Edge gel is a significant departure from standard sports nutrition gels. Most conventional gels rely on simple sugars like glucose and fructose, which are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, causing a quick energy spike followed by an inevitable crash. UCAN, on the other hand, utilizes a patented, slow-releasing carbohydrate called LIVSTEADY™. Derived from non-GMO corn starch, this complex carbohydrate digests slowly and steadily, maintaining stable blood sugar levels and providing consistent energy for an extended period. This process also promotes enhanced fat burn, allowing your body to use its fat stores for fuel more efficiently.
The Science Behind LIVSTEADY™
LIVSTEADY™ was originally developed for children with a rare metabolic disorder to prevent life-threatening blood sugar drops. This unique origin story highlights its effectiveness in providing sustained energy. Unlike simple sugars, the high molecular weight of LIVSTEADY™ results in low osmolality, meaning it passes through the stomach quickly and requires minimal water for digestion. This significantly reduces the risk of gastrointestinal (GI) issues, such as bloating and discomfort, which are common problems for athletes using traditional gels.
How to Use UCAN Gel: Pre-Workout Fueling
Strategic timing is crucial when using UCAN gel to maximize its benefits. For most training sessions and races, your fueling plan begins well before you start. The goal is to prime your body for steady-state performance without the sudden drop in energy that can occur with high-sugar fuels.
Pre-Workout Timing and Dosage
For optimal results, consume one pouch of UCAN Edge gel about 15 to 30 minutes before your workout begins. The exact timing can vary slightly based on individual preference and the workout's intensity, so it's always recommended to test during training.
- For shorter workouts (under 90 minutes): A single gel taken 15-30 minutes before starting is often sufficient to provide steady energy throughout the entire session.
- For longer workouts (over 90 minutes): You can either take multiple servings before or plan for additional fuel during the session. Some endurance athletes find taking a gel slightly earlier, at the 30-minute mark, works best for a long, sustained burn.
How to Use UCAN Gel: During-Workout Fueling
For extended endurance activities like marathons, triathlons, or long bike rides, consistent fueling is necessary to maintain performance. The timing and frequency of your UCAN gel intake will differ from traditional gels.
During-Workout Timing and Dosage
Due to its slow-release nature, you don't need to consume UCAN gel as frequently as sugary alternatives. Most athletes find success with the following schedule:
- General Guideline: Consume one pouch of UCAN Edge gel every 45 to 60 minutes during your exercise. This interval is much longer than the 30-minute re-dosing often required with high-sugar gels, simplifying your fueling strategy.
- Adjusting for Intensity: Your specific needs may vary. If you are pushing at a higher intensity, you might find you need to take a gel closer to the 45-minute mark. For lower-intensity sessions, every hour may be sufficient.
- No Water Needed: A key advantage of UCAN gel is its low osmolality, which means it digests easily without requiring you to chase it with water. This helps avoid bloating and the uncomfortable feeling of a sloshing stomach during exercise. A few sips of water are still recommended for general hydration, but not for digesting the gel itself.
Tips for Optimal Use
- Knead the Pouch: Before consuming, gently knead the pouch to ensure the contents are well mixed for the best texture.
- Flavor Variety: UCAN offers a range of flavors, including caffeinated options. Experiment with different flavors during training to find what you prefer and to prevent palate fatigue during long events.
- Supplement with Other Products: For longer sessions, UCAN also offers energy bars and drink powders that can be integrated into your fueling plan. You can also use UCAN Hydrate electrolyte mix for additional hydration without the extra sugar.
- Race Day Practice: Never try a new fueling strategy on race day. Practice with UCAN gel during your longest training sessions to understand how your body responds. This will help you dial in your specific dosage and timing needs.
UCAN Gel vs. Traditional Energy Gels: A Comparison
To highlight why UCAN gel is a popular choice for endurance athletes, let's compare its key features to those of traditional, sugar-based gels.
| Feature | UCAN Edge Gel | Traditional Gels (Sugar-Based) |
|---|---|---|
| Main Carbohydrate Source | LIVSTEADY™ (slow-release complex carb) | Simple Sugars (glucose, fructose, maltodextrin) |
| Energy Delivery | Steady, consistent, and long-lasting | Rapid spike followed by a crash |
| Gastrointestinal (GI) Issues | Minimizes GI distress and bloating | Can cause stomach cramps, bloating, and nausea |
| Water Requirement | No extra water needed for digestion | Requires chasing with water to aid digestion |
| Re-dosing Frequency | Less frequent (every 45-60+ minutes) | More frequent (every 30 minutes) |
| Effect on Blood Sugar | Stabilizes blood sugar levels | Causes blood sugar spikes and crashes |
| Fat Utilization | Enhances the body's ability to burn fat for fuel | Primarily relies on quick carbohydrate burning |
Can You Make a UCAN Gel from Powder?
Yes, if you prefer, you can make a gel from UCAN Energy Powder. This is a great option for those who want to customize their fuel concentration. Simply mix one serving of UCAN powder with 2-4 ounces of water until it forms a paste. This can then be transferred to a reusable gel flask for easy on-the-go fueling during your workout. This method is especially useful for ultra-endurance events where carrying many individual gel packets might be inconvenient. To learn more about the science of UCAN products, you can explore resources like the Runners Connect article on the topic.
Conclusion
Using UCAN gel is a straightforward process that offers a distinct advantage over traditional high-sugar energy gels by providing sustained, crash-free energy. By consuming one gel 15-30 minutes before a workout and then every 45-60 minutes during longer efforts, you can maintain stable blood sugar levels and minimize the risk of GI distress. Its advanced LIVSTEADY carbohydrate formula makes it a reliable and easy-to-digest fuel for any endurance athlete seeking consistent performance. Experiment with the timing and dosage during your training sessions to fine-tune your personal fueling strategy and experience the benefits of steady energy firsthand.
