Fueling Performance Naturally: Discover Cluster Dextrin™ from Glico
As athletes, runners, and fitness-focused consumers continue to seek advanced nutrition solutions, one carbohydrate is standing out: Cluster Dextrin™, an innovative performance carbohydrate from Glico. Designed for endurance, faster recovery, and digestive comfort, Cluster Dextrin™ is transforming the way brands develop sports nutrition products.
What Makes Cluster Dextrin™ Different? The Science Behind It
Unlike traditional carbohydrate sources, Cluster Dextrin™ is digested efficiently and delivers sustained energy throughout training and competition. It also accelerates rapid glycogen replenishment post-exercise, supporting faster muscle recovery and reduced fatigue.
Cluster Dextrin™ is slowly broken down into glucose in the intestines and transported into the bloodstream via SGLT1. As a polymer of more than 2,000 glucose molecules, it provides a consistent and sustained energy supply during physical activity. Since glucose and isomaltose share the same metabolic pathway as Cluster Dextrin™, combining them offers little additional benefit. However, fructose, which is transported by GLUT5 through a different pathway, is often used in combination with Cluster Dextrin™ in endurance formulations to further enhance long-duration energy support.
Key Benefits:
- Pre-workout: Optimizes carbohydrate stores and stabilizes glycogen levels
- Intra-workout: Supports prolonged endurance and maintains consistent performance without blood sugar spikes
- Post-workout: Speeds up recovery and energy replenishment
Designed for Functional and Performance Nutrition
- Excellent solubility in both cold and hot water
- Minimal sweetness with no aftertaste
- Compatibility with amino acids, proteins, and electrolytes
- Stable in powdered and ready-to-drink applications
Cluster Dextrin™ is also GRAS, Kosher, and HALAL certified, supporting global market requirements and clean-label product development.
Expanding Cluster Dextrin™ in the Nordic Market with DKSH
Looking for More In-Depth Scientific Insights?
► Cluster Dextrin™: The Science of Carbohydrate Supplement for Improved Sport Performance and Recovery
This new article you’re reading builds upon that foundation and highlights the latest applications, benefits, and market opportunities for Nordic brands.
Get in Touch
Ready to build your next high-performance formulation? Discover how Cluster Dextrin™ can power your next formulation for improved energy, performance, and recovery.
Contact DKSH or sign up on DKSH Discover to learn more.
Bjørn Rasmussen, Food & Beverage Specialist
[email protected]
FAQs
1. What is Cluster Dextrin™ and how does it work?
: Cluster Dextrin™ (highly branched cyclic dextrin) is a performance carbohydrate designed to empty from the stomach quickly while delivering sustained, stable energy. Its unique cyclic structure supports endurance, reduces gastric discomfort, and helps athletes maintain consistent performance during training.
2. Is Cluster Dextrin™ better than regular carbohydrates?
: Yes. Unlike simple carbs that may cause energy spikes or stomach discomfort, Cluster Dextrin™ provides smooth energy release, faster gastric emptying, and better endurance support. It is commonly preferred in sports drinks and intra-workout formulas.
3. Can Cluster Dextrin™ be used for both endurance and strength training?
: Absolutely. Cluster Dextrin™ benefits endurance athletes by providing long-lasting energy and strength athletes by improving glycogen replenishment and post-exercise recovery. It’s suitable for pre-, intra-, and post-workout formulations.
4. Is Cluster Dextrin™ easy to digest?
: Yes. One of the biggest advantages of Cluster Dextrin™ is its excellent digestibility. It does not cause bloating or stomach discomfort, making it ideal for high-intensity or long-duration workouts.
5. What types of products can Cluster Dextrin™ be used in?
: Cluster Dextrin™ is widely used in sports drinks, hydration beverages, gels, powdered supplements, energy bars, and functional nutrition products. Its solubility and neutral taste make it suitable for both ready-to-drink and powdered formulations.
6. Is Cluster Dextrin™ safe for global use?
: Cluster Dextrin™ is GRAS, Halal, and Kosher certified, and meets major international regulatory standards. It is safe and suitable for a wide range of global markets, including sports nutrition and functional beverages.
7. How does Cluster Dextrin™ support muscle recovery?
: Cluster Dextrin™ promotes faster glycogen replenishment after exercise, helping muscles recover more efficiently. When combined with protein or BCAAs, it further enhances post-workout recovery and reduces fatigue.
8. How is Cluster Dextrin™ different from HBCD?
: Cluster Dextrin™ is a high-quality form of Highly Branched Cyclic Dextrin (HBCD). It is produced using an enzymatic process developed by Glico, ensuring consistent quality, excellent solubility, and high performance in sports nutrition applications.
9. Why do brands choose Cluster Dextrin™ for sports nutrition formulations?
: Brands choose Cluster Dextrin™ because it offers smooth energy release, stable performance, high solubility, neutral taste, and excellent tolerance during exercise—making it ideal for premium performance nutrition products.
10. Where can I source Cluster Dextrin™ for new product development?
: Cluster Dextrin™ is available through DKSH, which provides market expansion support, formulation advice, and ingredient distribution across the Nordic region and other global markets.
