You may not be aware that maltodextrin is the main component in almost all weight-gain products. It has a significant effect on the enzymatic process which allows individuals to perform better during exercise as well as bulk up on much needed muscle mass. This natural ingredient is highly useful especially for athletes and bodybuilders without the risk of side effects.
Maltodextrin is a complex carbohydrate that greatly helps individuals perform better and last longer to cope with the demands of heavily strenuous activities. Despite being a carbohydrate, it functions more by rapidly degrading the enzymatic process. Maltodextrin supplements are usually added to beverages in order to quickly replenish carbohydrate stores that may have been depleted during exercise. Maltodextrin provides 4 kilocalories per gram just like any other carbohydrate. The ingredient is a very convenient energy source that facilitates rapid delivery and absorption of important nutrients by muscle tissues. Muscle glycogen can instantly be replaced during or after exercise.
Maltodextrin is derived from cornstarch and is very easily digestible. The starch is initially cooked. Acids and/or enzymes are then added to break the starch into smaller polymers. The process is highly similar to what occurs inside the body when digesting carbohydrates. Some forms of maltodextrins are polymers of dextrose that are also referred to as glucose polymers coming in the form of dried powders. These do not contain much fat, fiber or protein although some products are highly known for having soluble fiber and is very useful in reducing fat and excess weight. Most products also do not add vitamins or flavors.
The term “maltodextrin” actually refers to varying lengths of dextrose polymers. Maltodextrin is not very sweet compared to dextrose. It is the primary ingredient found in most weight-gainer products and supplements and come in handy for individuals who need to gain more mass and weight such as ectomorphs. A lot of weight-gain supplements contain a lot of calories to help individuals move up in terms of weight and muscle and consume more than their average dietary intake without having to eat so much in several meals daily.
The fine white powder has a bland taste and mixes very well with different types of liquids. It also helps improve the ability of protein powders to mix with other liquids so most bodybuilders prefer to prepare their on-the-go meals by combining maltodextrin with 1 or 2 scoops of protein powder and 8 to 12 ounces of water. The product contains no fat and can provide energy for long hours.
Bodybuilders usually incorporate maltodextrin in their diets during the bulking phase. One drawback would be the extremely high calories that weight-gain products contain so although maltodextrin itself contains no fat, the excess calories will result in a combination of muscle and fat gain. By degrading the enzymatic process, conversion of carbohydrates to energy is reduced thereby allowing individuals to perform better for longer periods of time.
Maltodextrin is best mixed with about 50 grams of water or fruit juice in a shaker or screw-topped mixer. You may also blend it with protein powder since maltodextrin can improve the protein supplement’s ability to mix while the protein’s flavor can improve maltodextrin’s taste. Consume the mix pre-workout, during workout or post-workout to provide enough energy to last all exercises or to quickly replenish glycogen and carbohydrate stores. Every 50 grams of maltodextrin will provide around 190 calories, 47 grams of carbs and less than 2 grams of protein and fat.