Effects of Three Carbohydrate Beverages on Resistance Training Performance

This randomized, triple-blinded, counterbalanced crossover trial compared three carbohydrate beverages that provided the same amount of carbohydrate (30 g) but differed in carbohydrate source: dextrose, maltodextrin, and highly branched cyclic dextrin (HBCD). Resistance-trained adults completed a familiarization session, a one-repetition maximum (1RM) testing session, and three experimental sessions separated by at least 7 days. In each experimental session, participants ingested one of the beverages in three 10-g servings and performed five sets of up to 15 repetitions at 62.5% of 1RM in the squat, bench press, and bench pull. Mechanical performance, blood glucose and lactate, perceived exertion, and gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed during or immediately after exercise; perceived recovery and muscle soreness at 24 and 48 hours; and serum creatine kinase and cortisol at 48 hours.