NOW: CARBO GAIN 12 LB

CARBO GAIN - 12 LB



by   NOW FOODS
*MSRP:
$59.99
Our Price:
$51.00
Buy: at $51.00
(3 for $ 50.99ea. = $ 152.97 ) 15% OFF MSRP
UPC: 733739020192
# N2019

NOW Sports Carbo Gain: 100% Pure Maltodextrin Complex Carbohydrate Powder

Maximize muscular endurance, accelerate post-workout recovery, and meet demanding caloric goals with NOW Sports Carbo Gain, a premium, unflavored pure maltodextrin powder derived entirely from Non-GMO corn. Engineered for endurance runners, competitive cyclists, bodybuilders, and strength athletes, Carbo Gain delivers 60 grams of easily digestible complex carbohydrates per serving. It supplies the rapid cellular fuel of simple sugars without the stomach-churning osmolarity or heavy, cloying sweetness of table sugar or dextrose.

The Science of Glucose Polymers: Rapid Energy Without the GI Distress

Maltodextrin is a complex carbohydrate composed of glucose polymers - medium-to-long chains of individual glucose molecules bonded together by easily cleaved alpha-1,4-glycosidic bonds. While maltodextrin is classified biochemically as a complex carbohydrate, its high glycemic index (GI ~105 to 110) means your body breaks it down and absorbs it with remarkable speed.

1. Low Solution Osmolality for Rapid Gastric Emptying

A common obstacle with standard intra-workout drinks formulated with fructose or dextrose is gastrointestinal (GI) distress, nausea, and cramping. High concentrations of simple monomers draw excessive fluids into the stomach and bowel through osmotic pressure. Because Carbo Gain consists of polymers rather than individual single-sugar molecules, it exerts significantly lower osmolarity in solution. It empties through the gastric barrier into the duodenum rapidly, allowing for quick fluid and nutrient absorption without creating a heavy, sloshing sensation in the gut during intense efforts.

2. Accelerated Muscle Glycogen Resynthesis

Intense physical exertion depletes intracellular glycogen stores in working skeletal muscles and the liver. Consuming Carbo Gain immediately during or post-exercise triggers an efficient, controlled insulin release. This insulin response activates glycogen synthase, the primary enzyme responsible for shuttling glucose into muscle tissue to replenish depleted stores and suppress exercise-induced muscular catabolism.

3. Synergistic Nutrient Delivery

The sharp, clean insulin response elicited by maltodextrin makes Carbo Gain an ideal carrier molecule. Stacking Carbo Gain alongside whey protein isolate, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and creatine monohydrate enhances muscle cell permeability and nutrient partitioning, driving amino acids and creatine directly into muscle tissue faster than protein consumed alone.

Athletic Applications: How to Use Carbo Gain

1. High-Intensity Intra-Workout Fueling (Endurance Athletes)

For runs, triathlons, or cycling sessions lasting longer than 60 minutes, exogenous carbohydrates are essential to preserve muscle glycogen and stave off central nervous system fatigue.
  • Protocol: Mix 1/2 serving (approx. 30g carbohydrates) in 16 to 20 oz of water and sip continuously every 45 to 60 minutes of prolonged exertion.

2. Post-Workout Glycogen Replenishment (Strength & Bodybuilding)

Immediately following resistance training, your muscle cells exhibit enhanced insulin sensitivity.
  • Protocol: Combine 1/2 to 1 full serving of Carbo Gain with 25-30g of fast-acting whey protein isolate in 16-24 oz of water. Consume within 30 to 45 minutes post-workout to accelerate systemic recovery and blunt cortisol.

3. DIY "Clean" Mass Gainer Shake (Hardgainers & Bulking)

Commercial "weight gainers" are frequently packed with low-grade fats, artificial thickeners, and excessive simple sugars. Carbo Gain provides an unflavored, neutral base that allows you to formulate a customized, high-calorie mass shake:
  • Clean Mass Gainer Recipe:
    • 1/2 cup NOW Carbo Gain (60g clean carbs / 240 cal)
    • 1 scoop Whey Protein or Plant Protein (25g protein / 120 cal)
    • 2 tbsp Natural Peanut Butter or Almond Butter (16g healthy fats / 190 cal)
    • 12–16 oz Whole Milk, Oat Milk, or Water
    • Total Nutrition: ~550–650 clean calories, ideal for caloric surplus phases without digestive bloat.

Carbo Gain vs. Alternative Carbohydrate Supplements

Carbohydrate Type Molecular Structure Digestion Rate Osmolality Sweetness Level Best Use Case
NOW Carbo Gain (Maltodextrin) Medium-chain glucose polymers Rapid Low to Moderate Mild / Barely Sweet High-volume endurance, DIY weight gainers, post-workout recovery
Dextrose (d-Glucose) Monosaccharide (Single sugar) Rapid High (Risk of GI distress) Moderately High Sweetness Inexpensive post-workout spike; limited intra-workout utility
Highly Branched Cyclic Dextrin (HBCD) High-molecular-weight cluster dextrin Ultra-Rapid Very Low Completely Neutral Elite competition intra-workout; higher cost per gram
Waxy Maize (High Amylopectin) Long-chain branched starch Moderate to Slow Low Neutral / Chalky Sustained release; may cause residue or incomplete mixing

Complete Supplement Facts & Ingredient Profile

  • Serving Size: 1/2 Cup (approx. 63 g)
  • Servings Per Container: 
  •  - 2 lb Tub: Approx. 14 Servings
  •  - 8 lb Bag: Approx. 58 Servings
  •  - 12 lb Bag: Approx. 86 Servings
 
Nutrient Amount Per Serving % Daily Value*
Calories 240
Total Fat 0 g 0%
Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
Trans Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 45 mg 2%
Total Carbohydrate 60 g 22%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Total Sugars 2 g †
Includes Added Sugars 0 g 0%
Protein 0 g 0%
Calcium 16 mg 2%
Potassium 0 mg 0%
Iron 0 mg 0%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
* Percent Daily Values (%DV) are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. † Daily Value not established.

Ingredients:

  • 100% Pure Maltodextrin (derived from Non-GMO Corn).

Allergy & Dietary Declarations:

  • Allergen-Free Manufacturing: Not manufactured with yeast, wheat, gluten, soy, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nut, or sesame ingredients.
  • Quality Standard: Produced in a certified Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) facility that processes other ingredients containing these allergens.
  • Dietary Approvals: Vegan, Vegetarian, Non-GMO Project Verified, Kosher, Halal-compliant, and Corn-sourced. Free of artificial colors, preservatives, fillers, and sweeteners.

Suggested Use & Mixing Directions

  • Standard Mixing Ratio: Add 1/2 cup (63 g) of Carbo Gain into 16 to 24 ounces of cold water, electrolyte fluid, or your favorite juice.
  • Pro-Tip for Clump-Free Mixing: Maltodextrin dissolves best when added to liquid that is already moving. Add water to your shaker cup first, begin shaking or stirring, and then add the powder. Alternatively, blend for 10–15 seconds.
  • Endurance Events (2+ Hours): Double the fluid ratio (32 oz of water for 1 cup of Carbo Gain) to maintain an isotonic to mildly hypotonic state that prevents dehydration and ensures rapid gastric emptying.
  • Storage Instructions: Store in a cool, dry, dark environment after opening. Contents are packaged by weight, not volume.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is NOW Carbo Gain made of?

NOW Carbo Gain is composed of 100% pure maltodextrin derived through enzymatic hydrolysis from non-GMO corn. The resulting product is an easily absorbable complex carbohydrate consisting of linked glucose polymers that dissolve cleanly in water.

What is the difference between maltodextrin and regular table sugar or dextrose?

While dextrose consists of single glucose molecules and table sugar (sucrose) is half glucose and half fructose, maltodextrin consists of bonded chains of glucose polymers. This allows Carbo Gain to provide concentrated carbohydrate energy with lower osmotic pressure, dramatically reducing the incidence of stomach cramps, bloating, and gastrointestinal distress during training.

When is the best time to consume Carbo Gain?

Carbo Gain is best consumed before, during, or immediately following intense physical exertion. During workouts lasting longer than an hour, it sustains blood glucose and spares muscle glycogen. Taken within 30 to 45 minutes post-exercise with a protein supplement, it triggers the insulin response needed to replenish glycogen and transport amino acids into muscle fibers.

Is Carbo Gain suitable for people with diabetes or insulin resistance?

Because Carbo Gain has a high glycemic index (GI of approximately 105 to 110), it causes a rapid rise in blood glucose and insulin levels. While this is advantageous for athletes during heavy training, individuals diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or severe insulin resistance should consult their physician or registered dietitian before incorporating pure maltodextrin into their regimen.

Does NOW Carbo Gain contain gluten, soy, or dairy?

No. NOW Carbo Gain is naturally free from gluten, wheat, soy, milk, dairy, egg, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, and sesame. It is manufactured in an audited GMP-compliant facility to ensure rigorous cross-contamination safeguards.

Can I mix Carbo Gain with other sports supplements?

Yes. Carbo Gain is completely unflavored and has a very mild, neutral taste with virtually zero sweetness. It mixes seamlessly into pre-workout powders, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), creatine, electrolyte mixes, or whey and plant proteins without clashing with existing flavors.
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