You might not know that maltodextrin is the main ingredient 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 increase the necessary 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 helps individuals to perform better and last longer to cope with the demands of heavy strenuous activities. Despite being a carbohydrate, it acts more by rapidly destroying the enzymatic process. Maltodextrin supplements are commonly added to beverages to quickly replenish carbohydrate stores that may be depleted during exercise. Maltodextrin provides 4 kilocalories per gram like any other carbohydrate. The ingredient is a very convenient energy source that facilitates rapid delivery and absorption of vital nutrients by muscle tissue. Muscle glycogen can be replaced immediately during or after exercise.
Maltodextrin is derived from cornstarch and is very easily digestible. Initially starch is cooked. Acid and/or enzymes are then added to break down the starch into smaller polymers. This process is very similar to what happens inside the body when digesting carbohydrates. Some forms of maltodextrin are polymers of dextrose also known as glucose polymers that come in dry powder form. They do not contain much fat, fiber or protein, although some products are highly known for soluble fiber and very useful in reducing fat and excess weight. Most products do not even add vitamins or flavorings.
The term “maltodextrin” actually refers to dextrose polymers of varying lengths. Maltodextrin is not very sweet compared to dextrose. It is the primary ingredient found in most weight gain products and supplements and is useful for individuals who need to gain more mass and weight such as ectomorphs. Many weight gain supplements contain a lot of calories to help individuals grow in terms of weight and muscle mass and consume more than their average dietary intake without having to eat that much at multiple meals daily.
The fine white powder has a faint taste and mixes very well with a variety of liquids. It also helps improve the protein powder’s ability to mix with other liquids, so most bodybuilders prefer to prepare their meals by mixing 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 a long time.
Bodybuilders usually include maltodextrin in their diet during the bulking phase. One drawback would be that weight gain products contain extremely high calories, although maltodextrin contains no fat, the extra calories would result in a combination of muscle and fat. By impairing the enzymatic process, the conversion of carbohydrates into energy is reduced allowing individuals to perform better over longer periods of time.
It is best to mix maltodextrin with about 50 grams of water or fruit juice in a shaker or screw-top mixer. You can also mix it with protein powder because maltodextrin can improve the mixability of a protein supplement while protein flavoring can improve the taste of maltodextrin. Consume this blend before, during, or after a workout to provide enough energy to last a full workout or to quickly replenish glycogen and carbohydrate stores. Each 50 grams of maltodextrin will provide about 190 calories, 47 grams of carbs, and less than 2 grams of protein and fat.
