Huang, Y. J., Chen, Y. J., Wong, S. H., Wong, C. K., & Li, P. W. (2006). Pre-exercise meals with different glycemic index and glycemic load on metabolic responses and endurance performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 38(5), Supplement abstract 733.

This study examined metabolic responses and endurance performances after isocaloric meals with different glycemic indexes and glycemic loads. Endurance-trained male runners (N = 8) completed three trials, each trial separated by at least seven days. In each trial, subjects consumed one of the three prescribed meals two hours before exercise: high glycemic index and high glycemic load; high glycemic index and low glycemic load; or low glycemic index and low glycemic load.

There was no difference in time to complete the 10-km run among the conditions. Minor interactions were revealed. An elevated blood glucose response was observed in the low glycemic index and low glycemic load condition.

Implication. Pre-exercise isocaloric meals with different glycemic indexes and glycemic loads do not differentially affect performance in a 10-km run despite changes in blood glucose with one condition.

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