maltodextrin + fructose

Maltodextrin + fructose is a combination of two carbohydrates commonly used in sports nutrition, particularly for endurance athletes. Maltodextrin is a glucose polymer that is rapidly digested and absorbed, providing quick energy to muscles. Fructose, on the other hand, uses a different intestinal transporter (GLUT5) than maltodextrin (which uses SGLT1), allowing for simultaneous absorption and higher total carbohydrate uptake rates compared to single-carbohydrate solutions[6][7]. This combination enables greater exogenous carbohydrate oxidation during prolonged exercise—up to 40% higher than maltodextrin alone—and can support intake rates up to 90 grams per hour or more without significant gastrointestinal distress[1][3][7]. The dual transport mechanism also helps reduce fatigue and perceived exertion during endurance activities[6]. Maltodextrin primarily replenishes muscle glycogen while fructose aids in liver glycogen recovery[8]. The mixture has been shown to acutely mitigate inflammation during intense exercise when used at an optimal ratio (commonly 2:1 maltodextrin-to-fructose)[9].