Highly Branched Cyclic Dextrin (HBCD) has several unique properties that help to enhance your training and workouts.

Cyclic dextrin (CD) is produced through the breakdown of starch and unique enzymes to form clusters of sugar molecules. Further branching enzymes are then used to form the cyclic dextrin in longer chains. From this, CD has a relatively high molecular weight and low osmolarity which helps to speed up gastric emptying.

The powder of CD spends less time in the stomach compared to other carbohydrates and this can reduce discomfort and that typical "sloshing" of fluids in the stomach during exercise. This increased rate of gastric emptying means that it reaches the small intestine faster, enabling absorption into the bloodstream to begin. Cyclic dextrin is an excellent source of energy by providing a steady increase in blood sugar levels and no dramatic rise in insulin levels. Having more sugar in the blood means you can get more energy, and in turn that will allow you to train for longer at a higher intensity. Higher intensity training can help the body adapt to lean muscular growth or improve endurance capabilities.

Even though it is digested quickly and absorbed rapidly, due to its distinct structure, HBCD is highly soluble and so can manage with a smaller amount of water and does not cause digestive problems as some fast-digesting carbs can do. Studies in humans have shown the CD can decrease perceived exertion and significantly increase the time to exhaustion.

CD is a suitable supplement for athletes that want to improve their endurance performance or recovery after an intense workout.

Furuyashiki T et al. 2014. Effects of ingesting highly branched cyclic dextrin during endurance exercise on the rating of perceived exertion and blood components associated with energy metabolism. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 78(12): 2117-9.