Effects of Acute Carbohydrate–Electrolyte Supplementation on Exercise Performance in Moderate-to-Hot Ambient Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Study Details
This systematic review and three-level meta-analysis included 21 randomised studies and 316 participants, examining acute carbohydrate–electrolyte supplementation versus water/non-caloric placebo during exercise at ≥22°C 🔍
Here are the key findings ⬇️
Key Findings
🏃 The clearest benefit was for aerobic endurance, with a small-to-moderate positive effect (g = 0.45)
📈 Across all performance outcomes, supplementation produced a small overall benefit (g = 0.37)
⏱️ Time-trial/fixed-work performance improved (g = 0.41), while time-to-exhaustion showed a larger but less precise effect (g = 0.66)
⚡ Evidence for anaerobic endurance, explosive power and strength was inconclusive
🌡️ The positive average effect remained when studies at 22–25°C were excluded (>25°C: g = 0.41) and when restricted to ≥28°C (g = 0.36)
↔️ However, prediction intervals crossed zero, meaning benefit would not be expected in every setting
🌡️ Neither ambient temperature nor exposure duration significantly modified the performance effect
⚠️ Importantly, trials compared CHO-electrolyte drinks with control within the same environment, so this does not show they specifically prevent heat-induced performance loss
🥤 Variation in carbohydrate concentration, electrolyte composition, fluid volume and timing meant the review could not identify an optimal formulation or dose
👩 Only 34 of 316 participants were women, limiting female-specific conclusions
📊 Evidence certainty was low for overall performance and aerobic endurance, and very low for non-aerobic outcomes
Conclusion
For athletes exercising in warm-to-hot conditions, carbohydrate–electrolyte drinks appear most useful for supporting prolonged aerobic performance, but they should complement rather than replace individualised hydration, pacing, acclimation and cooling strategies ✅
Reference
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/18/19/3200
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