Introduction
When it comes to fueling for endurance events, many athletes turn to various sources of carbohydrates. One of the most effective options in the performance world today is Cyclic Cluster Dextrin (CCD). It’s the primary fuel source in First Endurance’s EFS-PRO, and there’s a good reason for this: CCD is backed by research and offers numerous advantages over other carbohydrate options. It digests faster, is gentler on the gastrointestinal system, and helps your body absorb critical performance-enhancing nutrients like electrolytes and BCAAs.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what exactly CCD is, why it’s a game-changer for endurance athletes, and how it compares to other carbohydrate sources.
What is Cyclic Cluster Dextrin?
Cyclic Cluster Dextrin (CCD) is a trademarked form of Highly Branched Cluster Dextrins (HBCDs), created by the Japanese company Ezaki Glico. Unlike traditional starches like amylose or maltodextrin, CCD is a unique carbohydrate that resembles branched-chain starches such as amylopectin, with a twist—literally.
The process of making CCD involves fermentation of starch using heat and bacterial branching enzymes. This method results in small, branched starch molecules that don’t have the “reducing end” that typically causes starch to become sticky and difficult to digest. The absence of this reducing end makes CCD highly soluble, fast-digesting, and ideal for endurance athletes who need quick, efficient fuel.
CCD vs. Glycogen
You may wonder why not just use glycogen, the body’s preferred fuel, in products like EFS-PRO. After all, glycogen is how our body stores glucose for energy. However, glycogen is not practical for use in food or supplements. It’s too bulky and sticky due to its branched structure, making it difficult for the body to digest efficiently when consumed outside of the liver.
CCD is essentially a more digestible, pre-processed version of glycogen. While glycogen is designed for storage and use within the body, CCD acts as an efficient oral supplement that your digestive system can handle more easily, providing a quick and reliable glucose source during exercise.
Why CCD Works So Well
The patented structure of CCD allows it to offer all the benefits of maltodextrin and glucose without the downsides. CCD’s 3D structure makes it incredibly soluble and easy to break down by amylase and other digestive enzymes, allowing glucose to be released quickly into the bloodstream. This results in faster digestion and absorption, preventing the common issues that come with other carbohydrate sources like maltodextrins, which can lead to slower gastric emptying and discomfort during exercise.
In other words, CCD delivers glucose to your muscles without the “gooey” or sluggish digestion associated with other starches.
How CCD is Digested
CCD is broken down into glucose by human digestive enzymes, starting with salivary α-amylase. This process ensures that CCD is converted into glucose as it passes through the digestive system, making it an effective source of energy during long endurance events. This efficient breakdown ensures that athletes receive a steady and easily accessible fuel source throughout their training or race.
Sourcing and Safety
Cyclic Cluster Dextrins have been part of the human diet for centuries and are considered safe. In fact, CCD has been recognized by the FDA as “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS). The source of CCD used in EFS-PRO is a high-quality, well-defined version of HBCDs that has been available for use in foods and supplements in the U.S. since recently. While it has been used in Japan for over two decades, its availability in the U.S. is a recent development, one that First Endurance has embraced for its performance-enhancing properties.
Conclusion
Cyclic Cluster Dextrin (CCD) is quickly becoming the go-to carbohydrate for endurance athletes, and for good reason. It digests quickly, is easy on the stomach, and provides fast-acting energy without the issues commonly associated with other carbohydrates. Whether you’re training for a marathon, a triathlon, or any other endurance event, CCD offers a reliable fuel source to help you perform at your best. With its ability to enhance nutrient absorption and support sustained energy levels, it’s no wonder CCD is a cornerstone ingredient in EFS-PRO.
For athletes looking to optimize their nutrition and fuel their performance, CCD is a powerful ally in your training and racing toolkit.
