Core Ingredients Across the Torq Range
Torq nutrition products, designed for endurance athletes, are built around a few key, naturally-sourced ingredients. Their philosophy prioritizes a science-backed approach using simple, effective components to fuel performance and aid recovery. While specific ingredient lists vary slightly between product types and flavours, several core ingredients are consistent across the Torq fuelling system.
Multiple-Transportable Carbohydrates: Maltodextrin and Fructose
The cornerstone of Torq's fuelling strategy is its use of a dual-carbohydrate blend, specifically maltodextrin (a glucose polymer) and fructose (fruit sugar).
- Maltodextrin: This complex carbohydrate is a glucose derivative that is quickly absorbed and used by the body for energy.
- Fructose: This simpler sugar is absorbed via a different intestinal pathway than glucose, allowing the body to take in more carbohydrates per hour without causing gastrointestinal distress.
- 2:1 Ratio: By combining these two at a 2:1 ratio (maltodextrin to fructose), Torq maximizes carbohydrate delivery to the working muscles, supporting sustained energy levels during prolonged exercise.
Essential Electrolytes
During strenuous exercise, the body loses essential minerals through sweat. Torq products consistently include a mix of five key electrolytes to replace these losses and maintain fluid balance.
- Sodium Chloride: Crucial for maintaining fluid balance and preventing cramping.
- Calcium Lactate: Supports muscle function and nerve transmission.
- Potassium Chloride: Works with sodium to regulate fluid balance and nerve signals.
- Magnesium Carbonate: Essential for muscle and nerve function, as well as energy production.
- Sodium: A vital component for rehydration, helping the body to retain water.
Natural Flavourings and Additives
Torq is committed to using natural flavourings and avoiding artificial colours, sweeteners, and preservatives. This approach aims to reduce digestive discomfort during exercise, when blood flow is diverted from the digestive system to the muscles. Preservatives like Potassium Sorbate are sometimes used in gels to ensure product safety.
Product-Specific Ingredients: A Deeper Look
Torq's product line includes energy drinks, gels, bars, and recovery drinks, each with a unique formulation tailored for a specific function within the fuelling system.
- Energy Gels: Primarily consist of the Maltodextrin-Fructose blend and electrolytes, with added water for a smooth, syrup-like consistency and natural flavourings. Caffeinated versions also exist, adding natural guarana extract for an extra boost.
- Energy Drinks: These powders mix with water to create an isotonic beverage that provides both carbohydrates and hydration. The main ingredients include maltodextrin, fructose, electrolytes, and natural flavourings. The ratio of ingredients is adjusted to achieve the right tonicity for optimal fluid and fuel delivery.
- Hydration Drinks: Formulated to be hypotonic, these drinks prioritize rapid rehydration. They contain fewer carbohydrates and are built with sucrose, glucose, and electrolytes.
- Energy Bars: These solid fuel sources typically feature organic ingredients. Common ingredients include organic oats, raisins, dried fruit, rice crispies, and the standard maltodextrin-fructose mix.
- Recovery Drinks: After exercise, the body needs protein to repair muscles. Torq Recovery drinks feature a 3:1 carbohydrate-to-whey protein ratio, alongside L-Glutamine and D-Ribose, which aid in muscle repair and cellular regeneration.
Torq Products: A Comparative Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Energy Gel | Energy Drink | Hydration Drink | Recovery Drink |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Maltodextrin, Fructose | Maltodextrin, Fructose | Sucrose, Glucose | Maltodextrin, Fructose |
| Key Electrolytes | Sodium Chloride, Calcium Lactate, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Carbonate | Sodium Chloride, Calcium Lactate, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Carbonate | Sodium Chloride, Calcium Lactate, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Carbonate | Present in Vitamin & Mineral Mix |
| Protein Source | None | None | None | Whey Protein Isolate (Milk), Skimmed Milk Powder |
| Muscle Repair | None | None | None | L-Glutamine, D-Ribose |
| Flavouring | Natural Flavouring | Natural Flavouring | Natural Flavouring | Natural Flavours |
| Additives | Preservatives (Potassium Sorbate), Citric Acid | Citric Acid, Natural Colours, Preservatives (None) | Citric Acid, Natural Colours, Preservatives (None) | Thickener (Tara Gum), Vitamin & Mineral Mix |
| Allergens | None (Vegan) | No gluten (Vegan) | No gluten (Vegan) | Contains Milk |
Conclusion: The Torq Ingredient Philosophy
Torq's ingredient approach is built on scientific research and natural components to provide clean, effective fuelling and recovery options for athletes. By leveraging the 2:1 maltodextrin-fructose ratio, they maximize carbohydrate absorption, while including all five essential electrolytes for optimal hydration. The use of natural flavours and the absence of artificial additives ensure products are gentle on the stomach during intense exercise. Each product is specifically formulated for its intended use—energy gels for quick boosts, drinks for sustained fuelling and hydration, and recovery formulas with added protein, glutamine, and ribose for post-exercise repair. This comprehensive system allows athletes to build a complete and customized nutrition plan. For more detailed information on their fuelling system, you can visit the Torq website.
