Honey Can Serve as an Effective Carbohydrate Replacement During Endurance Exercise

Honey Can Serve as an Effective Carbohydrate Replacement During Endurance Exercise

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
2004;18(3):466-72
The benefit of CHO consumption during endurance exercise is well-documented. It is generally recommended that a high glycemic index (GI) carbohydrate (CHO) be used; although data supporting this recommendation is limited. The purpose of this study was to compare a high GI CHO (glucose) to a lower GI CHO (honey) on cycling performance. Nine male endurance athletes participated in 3 simulated 64 km time trials with a 7-day washout period between trials. Supplements—honey, glucose, placebo—were provided randomly and double-blind at the beginning of the TT and every 16 km thereafter. Power output (Watts), HR, RPE, glucose, insulin and time to complete the segment were measured every 16 km. Time to complete the total TT was significantly faster for the both the glucose and honey groups compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05) largely due to a longer time for the placebo group to complete the last two 16 km. Power output was significantly greater for the honey and glucose groups vs. the placebo group (p < 0.05); however, when the final 16-km power output was expressed as a percentage of pretest maximal power output, only the glucose treatment was greater than placebo (although the honey condition approached significance (p < 0.06)).