How is taste improved in nutritional supplements?
Before being put on the market, nutritional supplements undergo a number of processes to ensure their quality. Among the many important questions, one related to the taste of products cannot be overlooked. How is it improved? What ingredients do manufacturers use?
Sugar under control!
It is known that simple sugars should be strictly limited in the daily diet. Although it provides a sweet taste and helps to gain energy in a short time, it also promotes an increase in body fat. The low glycemic index of monosaccharides in supplements provides important
information to the potential consumer that consumption of the product will lead to a rapid change in blood sugar levels. Fluctuations in sugar levels, in turn, increase the chances of uncontrolled insulin secretion, which leads to gradual weight gain.
Some formulations intentionally include simple sugars, such as carbohydrate supplements, energy gels, and isotonic drinks. However, supplement manufacturers know that monosaccharides are not everything. This is why complex carbohydrates such as maltodextrin and waxy cornstarch are present in the formulations. Medium and long-chain carbohydrates not only ensure that the supplement tastes great, but also reduce the previously mentioned risks of an unexpected spike in insulin.
Low-calorie alternatives
The sweet taste of a dietary supplement does not always have to be associated with the addition of sugar. While this is understandable in the case of the above products, it is not recommended in the case of other products. Supplement manufacturers ensure that protein supplements, BCAAs, and pre-workout supplements are not a source of extra calories. At
the same time, they try to offer different types of high-quality taste - practically every athlete loves the refreshing taste of fruit or delicious chocolate. This is possible thanks to low-calorie alternatives that mimic the sweet taste without providing empty calories. Both are healthy alternatives to sugar (eg, stevia, xylitol, erythrol) and sweeteners (eg,
What about functional foods?
In recent years, the nutritional supplement industry has experienced a real boom in functional nutritional products. Protein bars, calorie-free sauces, high-protein creams, or ready-made mixes (such as muffins or oatmeal) are great alternatives to desserts that are high in calories and sugar. It is an ideal choice for diet conscious people who love sweets.
Manufacturers have made sure that the taste of products in this category reflects the taste of products on supermarket shelves. In any way ? The composition is limited or free of sugar and hardened palm fat, and in its place were used shea butter and maltitol,