During a multi-week expedition to the Himalaya, we aim to investigate i) whether dietary supplementation with carbohydrate drinks and gels can improve physical performance; and ii) the underlying mechanisms for any observed changes in performance. We hypothesise that i) carbohydrate supplementation will improve physical performance; and ii) the underlying mechanism of this improvement in performance will include maintenance of body glycogen (sugar) stores, prevention of dehydration and decrease in the incidence of acute mountain sickness.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
44
Complex carbohydrates including maltodextrin (97%) dissolved in water to make a a 10% solution, or dissolved in 25mL gels. Ad libitum. Twenty two days.
Aspartame dissolved in water, ad libitum, 22 days.
Medical Expeditions Ltd
Pinfold, Hyssington, Montgomery, Powys, United Kingdom
Performance (time to complete a physical performance task)
Time frame: Mid study
Body composition
Time frame: Pre, mid and post study
Hydration status
Time frame: Pre, mid and post study
Body glucose stores
Time frame: Pre, mid and post study
Oxygen delivery
Time frame: Pre, mid and post study
Acute mountain sickness
Time frame: Every day
Spontaneous physical activity level
Time frame: Pre, mid and post study
Rating of perceived exertion during a stepping task
Time frame: Pre, mid and post study
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.