LOLZLetter 296 | Hydration Heroes: Great High Carbohydrate Liquid Fuel Options for Your Run
Welcome back,
This is the second newsletter in the mini-series on high-carbohydrate fueling. If you missed last week, I gave some options for higher-carbohydrate gels. This week, we’re covering liquid fuel, and next week will be about fueling when you hate traditional gels and other fuel.
Thankfully, gone are the days we fuel with 1 gel for 20 miles or run with no gels. Seriously, I'm glad that fad is over and the research shows you can consume up to 90 grams of carbohydrates per hour.
What's new in my neck of the woods? Well, last week was emotional when I thought I might have a stress fracture in my foot. It turns out it was just a tight muscle, but after years of stress fractures, any small twinge feels like one. Anyway, other than that, just grinding away with work, marathon training, and sleep. It’s been a busy few weeks. I am looking for a CIM bib, so if anyone is willing to legally transfer to me, send me an email. It’s hard for me to write that because last year I injured myself around this time with a hamstring injury during the training cycle.
I need you: I'm also looking to interview a couple of people that have had successful endurance events by fueling with something other than traditional sports fuel. Whether that's candy or whatever...if that's you send me an email at fueledbylolz at gmail dot com.
Anyway, let's get into some fueling options!
Maurten 360
Carbs: 75 grams | Calories: 360
I appreciate that Maurten names indicate how many calories are in them—360 = 360 calories. I’ve never been able to get down an entire flask of Maurten 260, and the flavor/consistency in a drink mix is not for me, but many people, including world-class athletes, have success with it.
Maurten Drink Mix is one of the most innovative sports drinks on the market, designed to fuel athletes without causing stomach distress. Using patented hydrogel technology, it allows for smooth delivery of carbohydrates and electrolytes, essential for fueling long workouts or races. Available in two options, Drink Mix 160 (40g of carbs) and Drink Mix 320 (80g of carbs), it’s customizable for different intensity levels. With no added flavors, it’s slightly sweet.
Precision Fuel 60
Carbs: 30 grams | Calories: 120
The PF 60 Drink Mix provides a good combination of carbs, fluids, and electrolytes, making it great for high-intensity efforts or longer endurance events. Each scoop delivers 30g of carbohydrates and 500mg of sodium, with the option to double up for 60g of carbs and 1,000mg of sodium.
With its 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio, it ensures optimal carbohydrate absorption while maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. Vegan and free of artificial ingredients, it's a great option for higher-carb fueling. I really enjoy the flavor and ease of drinking the PF 60 (I double up).
Skratch Superfuel: High Carb Mix
Carbohydrates: 50 grams | Calories: 200
Skratch Superfuel is a high-carb hydration drink mix designed to provide long-lasting energy without upsetting your stomach. Unlike syrupy, gut-bomb alternatives, Superfuel offers 50 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
This advanced carb digests steadily, releasing energy over time to avoid overwhelming the gut, making it a game-changer for athletes who can’t tolerate gels or thick drinks. With its light, slightly salty taste and water-like consistency, it’s easy to drink during endurance events. Non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, and vegan, Skratch is another good option. At the moment, the flavor and carbohydrate count make it my go-to.
Carbs Fuel Drink Mix
Carbs: 50 grams | Calories: 200
You knew this was coming from the last newsletter. Carbs Fuel Drink Mix is a well-crafted endurance fuel that balances high carbohydrates and sodium for optimal hydration and energy. Designed for flexibility, it offers a blend of four carb sources—maltodextrin, fructose, sucrose, and highly branched cyclic dextrin—ensuring efficient absorption during intense activities.
With 500mg of sodium per serving, it provides the electrolytes needed for endurance athletes. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free. For me, I like the idea of Carbs Fuel, and it does a great job, but the flavor alone is too sweet. I’ll mix it with an electrolyte mix, and it’s fine, but the plain flavor doesn’t do it for me. BUT, boy, it works. You can customize it to get 1 serving for 25 grams of carbohydrates, 2 for 50 grams, or 3 for 75 grams!
You can find any of these and more on The Feed which is what I use to try new nutrition products because you can purchase single serving items.
As always, I appreciate anyone who supports the newsletter, by sharing, subscribing, or buying a gift subscription.
What is Keeping Me Entertained?
Brooks Hyperion Max 2 Shoe Review
Podcast: Nobody Asked Us Chicago Marathon Recap (or Rampage?)
Six-Time NCAA Champion Parker Valby Signs With New Balance: I found this article extremely fascinating, especially the business details including Valby's salary is likely over $800,000.
