O'Sullivan, S. D., Sharp, R. L., King, D. S., Panton, W. W., White, W. S., & Hedrick, T. (1995). Influence of carbohydrate ingestion on interval training performance in intercollegiate male swimmers. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 27(5), Supplement abstract 78.

The ingestion of a glucose polymer solution occurred regularly during swimming practice in male collegiate swimmers (N = 9). On one day a placebo was ingested and the other a CHO solution. Hard training bouts were performed on both occasions one week apart.

The ingestion of a glucose polymer solution did not significantly increase blood glucose levels or improve performance. However, CHO ingestion did benefit the performance of individuals whose blood glucose levels dropped markedly in the placebo condition.

Implication. There is a possibility that responsiveness to the benefits of CHO supplementation during training might be a variable to consider when determining the value of the practice. It is likely not to be of benefit to individuals whose constitution is such that blood glucose levels do not fall normally at training. For those who do experience significant reductions in blood glucose, the supplementation will enhance the standard of performance.

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