Efficacy Of Sports-Formulated Jelly Beans In Warding Off Fatigue To Be Studied

Researchers from the UC Davis Sports Medicine Program and Nutrition Department are embarking on an unique study to test the effectiveness of three different forms of carbohydrate supplementation - including sports-formulated jelly beans - in overcoming fatigue.

The researchers plan to use competitive sportsmen as subjects in the study and compare the carbohydrates efficacy with plain water. Around 16 competitive endurance cyclists and triathletes have already been recruited for this purpose, which also tests the efficiency of sports drinks and gels. Previous research has shown that carbohydrate intake through drinks rather than energy bars can improve the endurance in athletes. But the effectiveness of jellybeans is yet to be tested. The UC Davis researchers will run the tests during an 80-minute period of exercise. This is to be followed by a 10K cycling time trial. They will measure respiratory exchange ratios; blood glucose, lactate and free fatty acid concentrations; electrolyte balance; and perception of fatigue during this period. The subjects will also maintain a daily record of their waking body weight, heart rate and the type, amount and intensity of exercise. They will also partake the same diet as that of last month during the study.