By: Kim Yamauchi

My Nutrition Non-Negotiables

I’ve constantly struggled with my nutrition both on the run and the bike. For the last few years, I’ve landed on Skratch drink mix and Honey Stinger chews, and these seem to be the products I can tolerate and have worked for me. But, I recently had the opportunity to try out the NeverSecond products and I really like them.

The science behind the products is great and due to the consistent carb content across their products, it is really easy to figure out how much product to consume. That is all great, but what matters to me; do I like it, will I consume it over and over again without palette fatigue, and most importantly, can my gut tolerate it.

On the Bike: Two Flavors, Two Skeptics, Zero Complaints

Test #1: My husband and I used the product on a couple of recent bike rides. We used the C30 sports drink in both the Citrus and the Forest Berry flavors. I liked the taste of both. Typically I lean towards the lemon lime citrusy flavors and shy away from the cherry/berry flavors. With the NeverSecond product, I actually liked both flavors.  They were not overly sweet nor overly flavored. My first couple sips tasted a bit salty, but once I began depleting my own sodium supply, that salty flavor disappeared.

We also tested the gels on this ride. I have been turned off gels for years due to the sickening consistency of gels that have literally gagged me. These gels are completely different and went down easily and pleasurably. We tried out both the naked flavor and berry flavor. These NeverSecond gels have a light flavor and a consistency that is more attune to syrup vs pudding, which in my opinion, is a much better product. 

The Run Test: Just Me and a Flask

Test #2: My husband is not a runner so this was all me. I departed for a 90 min run and brought the Forest Berry C30 drink mix in my flask and a few gels. I ended up consuming my flask of drink mix along with 2 gels. I finished my run feeling strong, and again, no gut issues. 

The Wildcard Test (And My Best Run of the Spring)

Test #3: This was a unique one – I had a medical procedure and had a full day of a liquid only diet prior to the procedure. So, my “pre run” meal in the morning was an espresso C30 gel, fully caffeinated.  It was delicious! I followed this with a handheld running flask filled with the C30 drink mix. I think it’s the best run I’ve had all spring! I finished strong, felt great, and can’t wait to make this part of my regular running routine!

The Verdict

There are more products to try in their product line, and I know some of these products will be used at Broken Arrow (gels and bars). I’m excited to try their High Carb drink mix along with some of the other caffeinated gel products (cola, etc). 

Bottom line, NeverSecond is a great product line. The flavors are light and not overly sweet. The consistency in the gels is very palatable and evidently helps with the body’s absorption.