I received a small sample kit of Chocolate #9 to review. But to be up front, I really didn’t think this stuff would work nor taste good. You see, I’ve had various brands such as Hammer Gel, Gu, and the like in my stomach and most, if not all of them have always given me a stomach ache or made me feel more tired than energized.
Here’s their claim to fame:
Chocolate #9 is different because it:
is sweetened only with organic agave.
contains no refined sugar or other HIGH glycemic index sweeteners.
has been – tested and certified – as a “LOW†glycemic index (GI) item.
Chocolate #9 LOW GI gel reduces the negative effect of repetitive insulin “spiking†during sustained exercise.
won’t cause a sugar high or a sugar low – bonk.
is an excellent energy choice for endurance athletes.
is suitable for most diabetics – and used by Team Type 1.
is an excellent choice for those not wanting to eat refined sugar.
is vegan, low fat and gluten free.
contains no synthetics – no unpleasant aftertastes – tastes great.
contains no “mystery†ingredients, colorings, or preservatives.
is easy on the stomach.
best of all — Chocolate #9 tastes great.
The nutritional facts on the package, 70 calories per packet.
How it looks.
I bet you’re wondering how it tasted? Well…I gotta say this has to be THE BEST TASTING energy gel I’ve EVER HAD! No exaggeration! Chocolate #9 is not overly sweet, and not too chocolatey. In fact I thought it tasted just right. With other brands, their chocolate tastes like chocolate milk syrup, but with Chocolate #9, I thought it tasted like a mild cake frosting. It was simply good!
The texture was very smooth, just wash it down with a swig of water and within 15 or so minutes, you’ll start to feel it working. When you’re riding this stuff (see below) for a few hours, you’ll eventually need a snack or something to help keep you pedaling. With the Chocolate #9, it can fit into your shorts, jersey or hydration pocket and pull it out at your next snack break.
So does this stuff work? I’d say it did for me. Not once did my stomach hurt or feel like I crashed from the sugar rush. I guess that’s where the benefit of a low glycemic energy gel comes in handy. Basically the whole idea is to have a slow burn so it will last you through out your ride/work out. If you feel that you want a change in your energy gel, you should really consider Chocolate #9.
