Carbohydrate Supplements: a simple buying guide

Carbohydrate supplements and carb-based foods for training: carbohydrate powders such as maltodextrin, dextrose, highly branched cyclic dextrin and waxy maize, intra-workout carb drinks, energy gels, oat and rice-based powders, and cream of rice. They are mainly used by people training for long periods, endurance athletes, and anyone who wants an easy way to add carbohydrate.

The main differences are the type of carbohydrate, the grams per serving, and whether the product adds electrolytes, protein or caffeine. Simple powders such as maltodextrin and dextrose are the most economical; cyclic dextrin products are popular for intra-workout drinks; oat and rice powders are closer to food and suit breakfasts and shakes. Energy gels from HIGH5, SiS and others deliver carbohydrate in a small, portable pack. The range includes Applied Nutrition Carb X, 5% Nutrition Real Carbs, HR Labs Cream of Carbs, Trec Vitargo, SciTec Super Carb Xpress, OstroVit Oat My Day and Cream of Rice, and Yamamoto GlycoBol. Our guides explain carbohydrate supplements and cyclic dextrin vs maltodextrin.

Shop the range: Carbohydrates at NE Commerce

How to choose a carbohydrate product

  • Grams of carbohydrate per serving: compare on the nutrition panel.
  • Type: maltodextrin and dextrose for value; cyclic dextrin for intra-workout drinks; oats and rice for meals.
  • Extras: check for added electrolytes, protein or caffeine.

Related ranges and guides

FAQs

What is the difference between maltodextrin and cyclic dextrin?

Both are carbohydrates made from starch. Highly branched cyclic dextrin has a different structure and is popular in intra-workout drinks; maltodextrin is simpler and usually cheaper. Our guide compares them.

When should I use a carbohydrate supplement?

They are most useful around long or intense training sessions, or when you need to add carbohydrate easily. Follow the label directions.

Are energy gels the same as carb powders?

Gels are concentrated carbohydrate in a single-serve pack for use during exercise; powders are mixed into a drink and are usually cheaper per gram.

Is cream of rice a carbohydrate supplement?

It is a food: finely ground rice that cooks quickly into a smooth bowl. Many people use it as an easy carbohydrate source before training.

Ready to compare? Browse our full Carbohydrates range.

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