Energy chews can provide a quick source of energy, which can be convenient during endurance exercise, such as running, cycling, hiking, or training for a triathlon. Allison Knott, MS, RDN, CSSD, CDN says, “Energy chews are a convenient way to consume carbohydrates during endurance exercise—they’re easy to carry and provide a concentrated source of energy.”
It is important to note that energy chews are usually only recommended for longer exercise, not every workout. The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) recommends consuming 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour for any exercise lasting more than 60 to 90 minutes. In addition to providing carbohydrates, some chews provide electrolytes and performance enhancers, such as caffeine.
When choosing an energy chew, consider the ingredients, nutritional content, additives, electrolyte levels, and serving size. An energy chew that works for you may be different from what works for someone else; it often takes trial and error to determine what fuel and hydration are best for your body during exercise. To select the top energy chews, we tested several top products on the market, evaluating them for taste, smell, texture, and effectiveness. Our nutrition editors also reviewed them for the quality of ingredients and overall nutrition composition.
Editor's Note
Our team of registered dietitians reviews and evaluates every single supplement we recommend according to our dietary supplement methodology.
Always speak with a healthcare professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs, and to find out what dosage to take.