Experts Tell Us the Best Energy Gels For Runners

Huma gels are made with a combination of fruit purees (fructose) and sugar for optimal absorption, and add chia seeds in for a desirable consistency and extra healthy fats for sustenance. I generally recommend the Huma plus gels, which offer 240 mg of sodium, compared to 100 mg in their normal huma products. Many runners find these easy on the stomach and easy to digest!

I recommend Muir gels to clients who prefer less processed alternatives. Their ingredients include nut butters, fruit, coconut palm nectar, molasses, essential oils and himilayian salt. Muir Energy gels also have a fast burning and slow burning, depending on the distance you’re running and how sensitive your stomach is. The slow burning fuel has protein in it, and is better suited for ultra runners and cyclists.

I often recommend Maurten hydrogels to clients with sensitive stomachs or those who don’t like overly sweet things, as Maurten gels are flavorless, and have simple ingredients and a glucose-fructose blend, which is better for absorption.

I like spring energy gels because they have a lower glycemic index, meaning they provide more sustained energy. Rather than high amounts of sugar, they include rice in their gels to better stabilize blood sugars and energy. However, their gels are a little lower in carbohydrates at 17 grams, so runners will need to experiment with if they need an alternate source of carbohydrates as well. The power rush option has 160 mg of sodium, so more than the other options, for those with higher sweat needs.

The main ingredient is Glucose and hydrates the body while running. There are no sweeteners and are made up of purely vegan products. It contains no sources of dairy content and energizes your body with natural extracts. It fuels your body and maintains optimal blood sugar.