Do Ketone Supplements Really Improve Performance?
Any product associated with the words “keto” and “performance” is bound to turn gym bros’ heads, especially when Nasa is investigating whether it could be used to fuel astronauts travelling to Mars. Until recently, it was thought that the only way to get a high level of ketones – the slow-burning fuel source that promises near-limitless endurance – was to adhere strictly to the zero-carb keto diet. As fuel, ketones are hyper-efficient: they produce more ATP molecules (which help to fuel muscles) than glucose, and no lactic acid.
The problem is that arriving at and acclimatising to ketosis through food can take weeks. As a result, scientists have recently been attempting to synthesise ketones as a supplement. Mostly, they’ve failed.
Now, the energy drink HVMN Ketone aims to provide the solution. As with any new science, however, the research remains fledgling. According to a study published in the journal Cell Metabolism, elite cyclists rode an average of 2 per cent further over 30 minutes when they consumed the drink. Amateurs may consider the improvement insignificant, but it could mean the difference between silver and gold for Olympians.
The results are promising. If you’re an endurance athlete, watch this space. If you’re a recreational runner, though, think long and hard whether you can spare £25 for a single serving.
5 Best Performance Drinks
We assess the trending miracle cures and everyday elixirs to identify the best fuel for your fitness.
HVMN Ketone
Promise: Its 120kcal, 65ml vial promises to upgrade your performance with a new fuel source: your body gets a boost not from protein, carbs, or fat, but from ketones, thought to be a long-burning energy source.
Vitamin C
Promise: Research suggests that it not only props up your immune system after an endurance test, but can help you push through pain barriers and alleviate tiredness. Bring back the half-time oranges.
BCAAs
Promise: This go-to workout drink promises to drip-feed your muscles with the building blocks of protein to maintain your strength levels well into a gruelling workout. It’s the preferred fuel of gym-goers, rather than runners.
Hot Chocolate
Promise: It contains the perfect combination of carbs, electrolytes, proteins, fats, flavonoids and vitamins for optimal repair. It improves key recovery markers, such as heart rate, and reduces cramp-causing lactic acid.
Maurten
Promise: The best carb sachet on the market uses hydrogel technology, which enables the smoother transportation of carbs through the stomach to the intestine – where
the fuel is absorbed and mainlined to your muscles.
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