How much sodium, the key electrolyte lost in sweat, does one 20 oz. serving of PowerBar ENDURANCE contain?
400mg. In fact, PowerBar ENDURANCE contains 680 mg sodium/liter, which is at the high end of the ACSM recommended range of 500–700 mg of sodium/liter for prolonged endurance activities. For reference, sweat contains roughly 1000 mg/liter, but can vary widely.
Why didn't you use a 4:1 carbohydrate: protein ratio in PowerBar RECOVERY sports drink?
Having some protein provides amino acids for muscle repair, however, our testing suggests that too much probably interferes with taste. If research studies definitively determine the ideal carbohydrate: protein ratio for post-exercise recovery we will certainly consider addressing changes with our formulation.
Why don't you put protein in PowerBar ENDURANCE like some other brands?
There is currently no proven mechanism by which added protein might be of benefit. Hydration may also be a concern as the consumption of proteins during exercise produces urea, which can negatively impact hydration status. The evidence from clinical research studies regarding the benefit of including protein in sports drinks to be used during physical activity is contradictory. Finally, our "blind" taste testing with athletes revealed that it is difficult to incorporate protein into a beverage for use during activity while maintaining its palatability.
NUTRITION
PowerBar GEL contains amino acids. Why aren't amino acids included in the PowerBar Beverage System?
At PowerBar we are continuously evolving our product formulations to reflect the latest nutritional research findings. Recent research suggests that amino acids do not contribute significantly to the efficacy of sports nutrition products designed for use during exercise and therefore weren't included in PowerBar ENDURANCE. We are reviewing the role of amino acids in PowerBar GEL and will consider removing them if our research supports such action.
How does the PowerBar Beverage System fit with existing products in the PowerBar line?
The PowerBar Beverage System expands the company's product portfolio to now include a complete offering of nutritional bars, gels and drinks. PowerBar® ENDURANCE can supply the essential hydration, electrolytes and carbohydrates athletes need for endurance sporting events. PowerBar® RECOVERY meets athletes' glycogen restoration, muscle repair, and rehydration needs. The drinks may be used in conjunction with PowerBar® PERFORMANCE bars and PowerBar® GEL, or on their own, depending on the individual athlete's needs and the type of activity he/she is planning.
Who will benefit from the PowerBar Beverage System?
Athletes, particularly those who 1) exercise for more than hour, 2) take part in high intensity activities lasting an hour or less, or 3) regularly deplete muscle glycogen and need fast recovery for a workout later that day or the following day.
Has the PowerBar® Beverage System been tested with athletes?
Yes. The PowerBar Beverage System was tested during the product development phase and at final formula. The system was tested with PowerBar's stable of PowerBar® Team Elite®-sponsored athletes for performance and taste. The final formulation delivered on those two crucial qualities.
What happened with the original drink launched by PowerBar several years ago? How is the new drink different?
Our original beverage, PERFORM, was focused on the ready-to-drink, convenience store market. The decision was made to discontinue PERFORM due to stiff competition. With the PowerBar® Beverage System, we are targeting a more select niche… serious athletes who regularly shop sporting good stores and are searching for a great tasting sports beverage that meets their performance needs.
USAGE
Why did PowerBar® decide to enter/reenter the sports drink market?
Research with athletes by PowerBar® revealed several unmet needs in the category. Athletes expressed issues with taste, digestibility, ingredient selection, and GI effects with leading sports drinks. PowerBar was confident that they could develop formulations that could deliver on these unmet consumer needs.