GU

GU Energy Gels

GU produces two energy boosting supplements in the form of gels, GU Energy Gel and Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel.

The GU Energy Gel is the first energy gel ever manufactured, and has been around since 1991. Its formula is composed of easy to process fructose, and the complex carbohydrate maltodextrin for endurance.

The idea behind GU Energy Gel is to help you get your workout going, maintain that level of momentum throughout the challenge and help you recover once you finish. GU Energy Gel also contains caffeine, amino acids, and calcium. This gel is available in a variety of flavors, some of which are caffeine-free.

Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel promises amazing stamina and endurance.  It comes in a variety of flavors such as blueberry pomegranate, vanilla orange, cherry lime and caffeine-free pineapple. Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Gel contains branched chain amino acids and simple carbohydrates for fast working power.

GU Brews

The GU Brew contains some of the same ingredients as the GU Energy Gel, but also includes electrolytes that are essential for recovery. Electrolytes help to avoid dehydration with a proper balance of sodium and potassium.

GU offers GU Brews in three choices, the GU Electrolyte Brew, GU Recovery Brew and GU Brew Tablets that you drop in your water. They come in lemon lime, orange and peach tea flavors.

GU Chomps

GU Chomps offer a change in texture when you are taking on a physical challenge. These chews are available in six flavors and offer your antioxidants, electrolytes, energy boosting amino acids, and complex carbohydrates.

Only two servings come in a bag of GU Chomps, which may be why you are encouraged to save them for special events. A serving size is four chomps, and you are instructed to take the other four about 45 minutes afterwards.

GU Performance Energy Sampler

The Performance Energy Sampler is actually a good deal. You receive nine GU Energy Gels, three GU Roctane packs, a couple of GU Chomp packets, and three GU Brew packets. The Brew packets included are the Electrolyte Brew and Recovery Brew.  

GU Website

Anything you want to know about GU is available on their website. It contains a thorough explanation of all supplements and store locations in your area whether you are on the East or West coast.

Sponsored athletes of all kinds are featured on the site with bios and pictures. An application is available if you would like to be considered for sponsorship.

Events where GU will be featured are given attention, such as the recent March 12^th, 2011 Abu Dhabi International Triathlon; news and press releases are also accessible. This website allows athletes and GU members to blog about their experiences both in the field and in the lab where scientists and other team members are contemplating the next product.

GU collaborates with trainers and coaches in offering programs to athletes who need their services. Recipes, meal plans, and other support can be found on the website. The company offers a newsletter to the public with news, updates, coupons and other specials.

GU Reviews and Consumer Inquiries

The GU website has a list of FAQ’s that people have actually asked the company. Responders answered questions like whether the products were safe for the dog. The answer was no, since maltodextrin is corn based which may cause an allergic reaction in dogs.

• Another inquirer wanted to know if the GU product line was kosher. The answer was yes to all except the GU Chomps.
• Other questions related to whether the GU product line is gluten and dairy free. Both are true. People wanted more information on GU’s Roctane since it is recommended for competition and race day.
• The price of the GU line is reasonable including the sampler pack, which is around $25 dollars. The selections without caffeine are safe for kids according to GU. There are no prohormones or other contents that might trigger concern.
• Reviews of GU’s products have mostly been positive. GU claims that their products have no side effects, and there have been no reports of dangerous reactions. The gel concept seems to be a hit with tri-athletes.

As with any supplement, your doctor should be consulted prior to your consumption.  If you are considering GU products, use the supplement finder to compare them with other products that are on the market now!