Maltodextrin as meal replacement ?

[rottyguy]

Just a quick question for anyone who can answer for me. I'm taking ASN "Pro Carbs" ( australian product ) after exercise but it says you can use it as a meal replacement as well. Is it harmful to mix maltodextrin in drinks throughout the day as well ? Should you limit the use of it to after exercise only ? Any help appreciated.

[rottyguy]

I forgot to mention when i was trying to find info on maltodextrin i did come across a site and the part that worried me was the fact they claim maltodextrin is the worst supplement you could put in your body. So now i don't know what's the truth.

[Davidelmo]

Maltodextrin is just a carbohydrate - it is two dextrose molecules joined together. It is quickly broken down and elevates blood sugar fairly rapidly. It is good before and after workouts. I prefer it to dextrose because it is less sweet. Adding 50g dextrose to a drink makes it too sickly for me.

As a meal replacement, there are certainly better things out there. For instance, powdered oats would be better in my opinion. Also you need protein in a meal replacement. I would never a maltodextrin-only meal replacement.

Why not try this as an MRP:
50g powdered oats (i.e. just get normal oats and blend them when dry)
50g whey protein
500ml milk
That gives you around 600 calories. You can increase or decrease the amounts depending on your goals.

[hulkinout]

I have to admit I like maltodextrin as an additive since it has no discernible taste. I throw some extra into my protein shakes, even my weight gain shakes.

I've been using Now's Carbo Gain, which is like twelve bucks for 6 lbs. Not expensive at all. Does anyone have a handle on something cheaper?