Why Do All Pre-Workout Gummies Have Sucralose & What Are The Alternatives?

Sucralose is commonly found in pre-workout supplements, and it is currently making headlines. So what is all the hype about? Is sucralose bad for you? Stick with us to learn all about sucralose. We explain why sucralose is popular, discuss zero-calorie alternatives to sucralose, and explain why our pre-workout gummies only include real sugar.  

What is sucralose?

Sucralose, marketed as Splenda, is an artificial sweetener derived from sugar. The chemical process to create sucralose involves switching out three chlorine atoms for three hydroxyl groups in the sugar molecule. If this seems complex, just know that it is. What is essential to know is that this process results in a calorie-free sweetener that is 600 times sweeter than sugar. 

Why do many pre-workout supplements contain sucralose?

Many pre-workout supplements contain sucralose because it is cheap and makes flavoring easier. Sucralose is also used to satisfy consumers’ demand for sugar-free supplements they believe can aid in weight loss. Unfortunately, this demand is misguided. While some people need to avoid real sugar, most healthy people, especially athletes, need real sugar to provide their bodies with ample fuel. 

Is sucralose bad for you?

The FDA approves sucralose for use as a general-purpose food sweetener. However, new research indicates that sucralose-6-acetate, a chemical found in sucralose, may be associated with DNA damage, harm to intestines, oxidative stress, inflammation, and cancer. In addition to the health concerns, consuming a pre-workout supplement made with sucralose detracts from the potential performance and health gains in pre-workout supplements made with real sugar. 

What are the alternatives to sucralose?

If you are looking for a zero-calorie sweetener, there are many different options. Here are a few: 

1. Monk fruit sweetener is derived from a fruit grown in Southeast Asia, and it is 100-250 times sweeter than real sugar. Some people perceive a slight aftertaste of monk fruit sweetener. Although there are no documented downsides, it and most other sugar substitutes are not currently sold in the United Kingdom due to a lack of conclusive evidence proving its safety. 
2. Stevia is derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant and is 100-300 times sweeter than real sugar. Some consumers find the taste of Stevia bitter, and it may cause nausea and bloating. 
3. Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made by combining amino acids. It is 200 times sweeter than table sugar. In recent years, aspartame has become quite controversial as excessive consumption has been linked to a risk of cancer. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared aspartame a potential carcinogen. 
4. Saccharin, also known as Sweet’N Low, is made in a lab through a complex chemical process. It is 300-400 times sweeter than real sugar but can impart a bitter aftertaste. Research on lab rats shows that consuming saccharin over a long period can increase the risk of diabetes, obesity, and liver disease, indicating that saccharin is not safe for consumption. 

Why choose pre-workout gummies made with real sugar?

For most healthy people, real sugar is the best alternative to sucralose, especially in pre-workout supplements. Our bodies need electrolytes and fuel for energy, and one of the purest and most bioavailable forms is real sugar. In fact, the WHO designates glucose (real sugar) as an electrolyte. Glucose can help the body properly absorb water and sodium in the small intestine and top off our energy stores so we have enough fuel to power our muscles during a workout. The more intense the activity, the quicker we burn through energy reserves, and the more critical it is to fuel the body with the right amount and quality of real sugar. Athletes and exercise enthusiasts rely upon muscle glycogen deposits to power and prolong workouts, and sucrose is the ideal substance because it contains both fructose and glucose.  

The Seattle Gummy Company Power Up pre-workout gummies contain a blend of fructose and glucose so that carbohydrates are released in a controlled manner that boosts and sustains energy levels. The blend of active ingredients includes cane and fruit sugars, a BCAA mix, caffeine, and ginseng extract to help jump-start your workout and keep you going stronger and longer. The delicious gummies are easily digestible and won’t upset your stomach. For best results, thoroughly chew 2-4 gummies within a half hour of starting your workout. Take an additional 2-4 gummies for every hour of vigorous activity after that. 

To get more out of your training with the right fuel, shop our pre-workout gummies today!