A comparison of isomaltulose versus maltodextrin ingestion during soccer-specific exercise

Abstract

Purpose: The performance and physiological effects of isomaltulose and maltodextrin consumed intermittently during prolonged soccer-specific exercise were investigated. Methods: University soccer players (n=22) performed 120-min of intermittent exercise while consuming 8% carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks (equivalent to ~20 g·h-1) containing maltodextrin (Glycaemic Index: 90-100), isomaltulose (Glycaemic Index: 32) or a carbohydrate-energy-free placebo in a manner replicating the practices of soccer players (i.e., during warm-up and half-time). Physical (sprinting, jumping) and technical (shooting, dribbling) performance was assessed. Results: Blood glucose and plasma insulin (both P13% higher blood glucose concentrations between 75-90-min versus maltodextrin (P0.05). Ratings of abdominal discomfort were influenced by trial (P<0.05) with lower values for both carbohydrates compared to PLA from 60-min onwards. Conclusions: Although carbohydrates (~20 g·h-1) did not attenuate performance reductions throughout prolonged soccer-specific exercise, isomaltulose maintained higher blood glucose at 75-90-min, lessened the magnitude of the exercise-induced rebound glycaemic response and attenuated epinephrine increases whilst maintaining similar abdominal discomfort values relative to maltodextrin. When limited opportunities exist to consume carbohydrates on competition-day, low-glycaemic isomaltulose may offer an alternative nutritional strategy for exercising soccer players