Glycemic and lactate responses of oral hydration solutions in healthy adults at rest and moderate exercise

The purpose of this investigation was to summarize and contrast the availability of glucose following consumption of a glucose solution, a commercial electrolyte drink (Gatorade), and a rice-based sports drink (CeraSport) at rest and during moderate exercise. This research focuses on changes in glucose, lactate, and fluid balance. Following a 12-hr overnight fast, male (n=10) and female subjects (n=10) underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at rest or during 60 min of moderate intensity exercise following consumption of glucose (G; 200 kcals; 1250 mL), Gatorade (200 kcals; 882 mL), an isocaloric CeraSport solution (C-ISOC) or an isovolumetric solution of CeraSport (C-ISOV). Blood glucose was significantly elevated 35 min following ingestion of C-ISOC when compared to other treatments at rest and during exercise (P < 0.05). A lower caloric content of CeraSport (C-ISOV) resulted in similar elevations in blood glucose as either G or Gatorade. Blood lactate was significantly increased within 15 min of carbohydrate ingestion at rest and during exercise, but no treatment effects were found. The higher glycemic responses of CeraSport at rest and during exercise suggest greater total carbohydrate absorption when compared to either glucose or sucrose based carbohydrate electrolyte drink. It is likely that additional routes of absorption, such as longer chain carbohydrate absorption in the ileum, resulted in a higher glycemic response.