Enerfuel

Enerfuel is a dietary supplement containing carbohydrates (highly branched cyclodextrins, isomaltulose), L-citrulline, beta alanine, glycerol, taurine, L-glutathione, pycnogenol, hesperidin, propionyl l-carnitine and citicoline.
Carbohydrates contribute to the recovery of normal muscle function (contraction) after intense and/or prolonged exercise involving muscle fatigue and depletion of skeletal muscle glycogen reserves (the beneficial effect is obtained by consuming carbohydrates from all sources, totalling 4 g per kg of body weight, in doses starting within the first 4 hours following intense and/or prolonged exercise and ending within 6 hours of such exercise).

The consumption of an adequate amount of carbohydrates during physical activity, particularly during endurance sports, helps to train at a higher intensity and for a longer period of time. The role of performance support emerges particularly in long-duration activities, such as cycling, triathlon, running, cross-country skiing, etc., where, with the right supplementation, a clear reduction in attacks of hypoglycaemia (the so-called 'sugar crash') can be observed, while maintaining a high rate of carbohydrate oxidation. This kind of support should in no way create the risk of developing problems such as glycaemic spikes and crashes or gastrointestinal disorders. The new generation of innovative carbohydrate forms, such as cyclodextrins or isomaltulose, can ensure rapid gastric passage and absorption, without creating bloating, fermentation, cramps, osmotic diarrhoea or other factors that draw precious blood to the digestive system and thus risk ruining performance.

These new forms of carbohydrate ensure that the body has rapid energy available, which can then be readily used and is also released over a longer period of time.   What is Enerfuel

Enerfuel is a food supplement based on new generation carbohydrates (highly branched cyclodextrins, isomaltulose) with the presence of L-citrulline, beta alanine, glycerol, taurine, L-glutathione, pycnogenol, hesperidin, propionyl l-carnitine and citicoline, elements designed to support the different needs of the athlete who needs to maintain prolonged performance without incurring energy losses. Its complete formula makes it suitable for supporting any endurance sport or one that requires sustained performance.

Below we list the components of our Enerfuel, explaining their systemic effects on the body.

Cyclodextrins (Cluster Dextrin®) are now the most innovative form of carbohydrate to be taken before/during/after performance. This highly advanced form of carbohydrate, which has brought about a real revolution in sports supplementation, is made up of special glucose polymers, derived from the reaction between amylopectin and a specific enzyme. This allows the formation of glucose polymers with a very particular cyclic structure, with exceptional utilisation characteristics and an average molecular weight of 160,000 Daltons. In addition, these polymers have a very low osmolarity, which favours very rapid gastric emptying and equally rapid intestinal absorption. Energy is then released gradually, providing 'ready-to-use' energy. Post-workout, cyclodextrins are used to optimise muscle glycogen recovery and stimulate the absorption of amino acids by the muscle (so that protein synthesis is also indirectly improved).
Thanks to the characteristics listed above, Cyclodextrins are the most soluble and rapidly absorbable form of the new generation of carbohydrate, compared to any other source (such as maltodextrins and glucose/dextrose). They also have an additional advantage: long-lasting energy support, which will be sustained steadily over time, without incurring glycaemic spikes and 'crashes' and without raising insulin levels excessively. These problems, together with the limitations of gastrointestinal disorders, have in the past often limited the use of carbohydrates during training.   Isomaltulose (Palatinose™) is a carbohydrate, a disaccharide formed from glucose and fructose. It is naturally present, albeit in rather low concentrations, in honey and cane sugar syrup. It is produced by modern enzymatic conversion techniques from sucrose and, like sucrose, is fully digested in the intestine. A particular structural feature is that the bonds of the molecules forming isomaltulose (alpha(a)-1,6-glycosidic acid) are more stable than those of the molecules in sucrose. This is why this disaccharide is highly appreciated by sportsmen and women who want to maintain optimum performance: blood glucose and insulin levels rise much less than when other sugars are consumed. The special bond between its two components (fructose and glucose) slows down the rate of absorption. Subsequently, our intestinal disaccharidases, enzymes capable of breaking the bond between the two sugars, promote the absorption and bioavailability of the individual compounds. However, this process is much slower than for other, better-known sugars (such as sucrose). As a result, blood glucose and insulin levels will rise much less and without fluctuation, thus widening the time span of the blood glucose curve. This makes isomaltulose a slow-release energy source, capable of sustaining the body during prolonged and sustained training sessions, without incurring drops in performance due to hypoglycaemia or being affected and compromised by annoying gastrointestinal disorders (frequent with the use of other simple sugars). The effects of this disaccharide are confirmed both by scientific literature and directly by athletes in the field.
Enerfuel is much more than just a blend of the latest generation of innovative carbohydrates for prolonged athletic performance: it contains many other valuable elements to support and maximise muscular effort in the best possible way. In addition to prolonged glycaemic support, an athlete needs to support other activities as the body is affected in its complexity. These range from maintaining focus and concentration to improving oxygenation of the tissues, as well as efficiently combating the onset of fatigue and the effects of lactic acid, without forgetting the fundamental role of hydration, not 'only' to prevent the onset of cramps. It is also important to remember that to support general wellbeing, the immune system must also be taken care of.

With this in mind, the additional elements that characterise Enerfuel are:
L-Citrulline (Kyowa Quality®): a non-essential amino acid, named after the fruit from which this substance was first isolated (watermelon, in Latin "citrullus"). It performs important functions in the body, as a key intermediate in the urea cycle, where superfluous amino groups are removed. The urea cycle is a cycle of biochemical reactions that produces urea from ammonia, a substance that is 'toxic' to the body. Its accumulation also hinders the formation of muscle glycogen and promotes fatigue. The production of urea, enhanced by the introduction of Citrulline, is therefore essential for the elimination of these waste substances, which can affect the performance of athletes. Citrulline is also known to stimulate vasodilation, as it is converted into L-arginine, resulting in massive production of nitric oxide (NO). NO is a powerful molecule which dilates blood vessels to allow muscles to receive more oxygen and nutrients, while at the same time removing metabolic waste products. Citrulline is also known for its antioxidant effects, and from recent experimental studies, also for its anabolic and anti-catabolic activities.   Beta-Alanine: a non-essential amino acid, well known in the sports world for its efficacy and credibility, backed up by excellent confirmation from numerous scientific studies. Once taken, β-alanine is combined with L-histidine to synthesise Carnosine, a dipeptide which is the real player in the 'buffer' effect on lactate. Beta Alanine supplementation has been shown to raise levels of this molecule in muscles by 80%, where it will act as a neutralising agent against hydrogen ions. In practical terms, it will reduce the build-up of unpleasant lactic acid in the muscles, while also significantly reducing muscle fatigue. Beta-Alanine is also an excellent antioxidant, useful against the formation of free radicals produced by exercise. Supplementation with this amino acid leads to increases in strength performance, and is recommended not only for training aimed at body building or power sports, but also in sports with sprints or changes in intensity (such as cycling, athletics, crossfit or triathlon). Supplementation for these types of sport leads to increased performance, proving to be a powerful support in curbing fatigue and disposing of lactic acid. Beta-Alanine supplementation has also been shown to help prevent muscle decline (sarcopenia) in older people.

L-Taurine: a conditionally essential amino acid, well known in sports supplementation as it helps reduce oxidative damage induced by intense exercise. It promotes better peripheral oxygenation, as well as counteracting the build-up of lactic acid, helping to maintain more efficient muscle contractility, even during intense exercise. Its action intervenes in neurotransmission, membrane stabilisation and neurological development, delaying the onset of central fatigue and muscle fatigue. Taurine also plays a key role in the synthesis of bile acids, and is important for vision and eye health.

Glycerol (GlyceroMax™): or Glycerine, is a chemical compound consisting of two primary alcohol groups and a secondary alcohol group, and is known in sports as a hyper-hydrating agent with osmotic properties. The GlyceroMax™ version is the most stable form (65% Glycerol and 35% Silicon) of Glycerol. It is used to prevent and alleviate states of dehydration with negative consequences on performance (but also on the athlete's overall health). It is particularly popular with cyclists, marathon runners or athletes facing long-duration races and/or adverse weather conditions, where it is easy to become dehydrated. Glycerol acts on several fronts and once taken orally, it moves rapidly through the body fluids before being metabolised, and increases the osmotic pressure and total volume of water in the body through the process of 'osmosis'. This happens because water is able to diffuse through body membranes in response to changes in osmotic pressure. These changes are often caused by an imbalance between molecules on either side of the membrane in question (in humans most commonly salt and water), and the body is well-calibrated in maintaining intracellular osmotic pressure. In fact, cells adjust their volume to account for external pressure shifts. In raising the osmotic pressure within the body fluids, glycerol over a period of time draws in and retains a greater influx of water throughout the body (until it is physiologically metabolised), as if it were a 'pump', effectively increasing its overall volume. In this way, the body not only retains more water resulting in 'hyperhydration', but will also use fluids more efficiently for thermoregulation, promoting hydration of the muscles during physical exertion.   Watt'sUp® is a bioflavonoid derived from sweet orange in hesperidin. It is used for its properties in all types of sporting activity, from strength sports to endurance sports, due to its ability to make the action of the mitochondria, our cellular 'powerhouse', more efficient. By generating more ATP at constant oxygen levels, this translates into greater energy, aerobic endurance and anaerobic power. It also improves tissue oxygenation and has antioxidant and antiphlogistic effects.
Pycnogenol® is a patented mixture of antioxidant substances extracted mainly from French maritime pine bark. It is one of the most powerful antioxidant complexes in nature, and has a number of properties beneficial to various other aspects of health. In the field of sports performance, it is used not only as a powerful antioxidant against free radicals produced by exercise, but also to improve resistance to fatigue, bringing a marked improvement in vascular microcirculation, capillary resistance and peripheral tissue oxygenation.
Hericium: a valuable medicinal mushroom used in traditional Chinese medicine, useful for improving cognitive ability and concentration. Very well absorbed by the body in terms of bioavailability, it is becoming increasingly popular as a nootropic, i.e. a substance supporting cognitive functions and memory. It contains high amounts of antioxidant substances, which help to strengthen the immune system. Its anti-inflammatory effects also act at the gastro-intestinal level, where it also acts as a prebiotic.

L-Glutathione (Setria®): the most powerful of the body's antioxidants. It is a natural tripeptide, part of a group of enzymes with antioxidant activity called glutathione peroxidase. It is used to counteract the oxidative stress generated by intense physical activity, which leads to a sharp increase in the production of free radicals that are harmful to the body. Setria® is the prestigious Japanese Kyowa patent, which has enabled the oral version of glutathione to be used effectively for all its fundamental functions. In addition to its strong antioxidant activity, detoxifying, immunomodulating and cytoprotective activities are also attributed to this molecule. Several studies also support glutathione's ability to improve insulin profile and activity in people with diabetes.

Propionyl L-Carnitine (PLC) is obtained by esterification of carnitine with propionic acid. This bond makes the substance particularly lipophilic and able to pass cell membranes to a greater extent than even Acetyl L-Carnitine. Carnitine is an amino acid with an important role in lipid metabolism, converting fat into energy and facilitating its burning during exercise. It facilitates the entry of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are oxidised to produce energy. In sports, it is used to boost energy capacity as well as improving performance and body composition.

Citicoline (Cognizin®): is Kyowa's branded citicoline, obtained by fermentation and clinically tested. It is a special molecule with psychostimulant and nootropic activity, i.e. able to increase the cognitive activity of the individual. Nootropic substances perform their function by promoting the production of neurotransmitters, providing the body with the molecules it needs to synthesise them. In this case, citicoline is a precursor of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and concentration. The addition of this substance therefore helps to support not only physical but also mental performance.

Our Enerfuel is therefore a complete and effective intra-workout supplement, useful as a support especially during sports performance. The purpose of intra-workout supplementation is in fact to maintain optimal conditions for supporting training.
Benefits of our supplement

Why choose Enerfuel?

• Ideal for supporting sustained performance;
• No risk of glycaemic dips or spikes;
• Antioxidant action;
• Improves cognitive ability and concentration during training;
• Ensures energy supply for your sports activities;
• Hydrating effect and support for hydrosaline balance;
• Perfect for supporting and maximising physical exertion;

• Complete and effective mix of differently-released carbohydrates.

   

  When and how to take it
  Dissolve 2 ½ scoops (approx. 33g) in 300ml of water and take once a day. Depending on individual goals, it can be taken pre-workout (about 30 minutes before) or during performance to maximise performance.

Net content: 400 g

Alphazer® Enerfuel is an Informed-Sport certified product see certificate.

Scientific references

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Amano T, Sugiyama Y, Okumura J, Fujii N, Kenny GP, Nishiyasu T, Inoue Y, Kondo N, Sasagawa K, Enoki Y, Maejima D. Effects of isomaltulose ingestion on postexercise hydration state and heat loss responses in young men. Exp Physiol. 2019 Oct;104(10):1494-1504. doi: 10.1113/EP087843. Epub 2019 Aug 26. PMID: 31400765.

Figueroa A, Wong A, Jaime SJ, Gonzales JU. Influence of L-citrulline and watermelon supplementation on vascular function and exercise performance. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2017 Jan;20(1):92-98. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000340. PMID: 27749691.

Gough LA, Sparks SA, McNaughton LR, Higgins MF, Newbury JW, Trexler E, Faghy MA, Bridge CA. A critical review of citrulline malate supplementation and exercise performance. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2021 Dec;121(12):3283-3295. doi: 10.1007/s00421-021-04774-6. Epub 2021 Aug 21. PMID: 34417881; PMCID: PMC8571142.

Saunders B, Elliott-Sale K, Artioli GG, Swinton PA, Dolan E, Roschel H, Sale C, Gualano B. β-alanine supplementation to improve exercise capacity and performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2017 Apr;51(8):658-669. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096396. Epub 2016 Oct 18. PMID: 27797728.

Guest NS, VanDusseldorp TA, Nelson MT, Grgic J, Schoenfeld BJ, Jenkins NDM, Arent SM, Antonio J, Stout JR, Trexler ET, Smith-Ryan AE, Goldstein ER, Kalman DS, Campbell BI. International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and exercise performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021 Jan 2;18(1):1. doi: 10.1186/s12970-020-00383-4. PMID: 33388079; PMCID: PMC7777221.

D'Andrea G. Pycnogenol: a blend of procyanidins with multifaceted therapeutic applications? Fitoterapia. 2010 Oct;81(7):724-36. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2010.06.011. Epub 2010 Jun 20. PMID: 20598812.

Brandalise F, Cesaroni V, Gregori A, Repetti M, Romano C, Orrù G, Botta L, Girometta C, Guglielminetti ML, Savino E, Rossi P. Dietary Supplementation of Hericium erinaceus Increases Mossy Fiber-CA3 Hippocampal Neurotransmission and Recognition Memory in Wild-Type Mice. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:3864340. doi: 10.1155/2017/3864340. Epub 2017 Jan 1. PMID: 28115973; PMCID: PMC5237458.

Morin G, Guiraut C, Perez Marcogliese M, Mohamed I, Lavoie JC. Glutathione Supplementation of Parenteral Nutrition Prevents Oxidative Stress and Sustains Protein Synthesis in Guinea Pig Model. Nutrients. 2019 Sep 3;11(9):2063. doi: 10.3390/nu11092063. PMID: 31484318; PMCID: PMC6770543.