Why We Use Cane Sugar in Neve: A Science-Backed Choice for Athletes
Nora FiermanAt Neve, our mission is to provide athletes and adventurers with plant-based nutrition that fuels performance and recovery. One ingredient in our formulations is cane sugar. While it may seem counterintuitive to some, there's a scientific rationale behind this choice, especially when compared to alternatives like coconut sugar. I have many people ask or comment on the fact that Neve does leverage cane sugar. This choice was very intentional and here is why.
The Role of Cane Sugar in Athletic Nutrition
1. Rapid Energy Source
Cane sugar is a simple carbohydrate, primarily composed of sucrose, which the body quickly converts into glucose, the preferred energy source for muscles during exercise. This rapid conversion helps replenish glycogen stores, delaying fatigue and enhancing endurance. Consuming carbohydrates before and after exercise can aid in muscle recovery and improve performance.
2. Optimal Carbohydrate-to-Protein Ratio
For effective post-exercise recovery, experts recommend a 3:1 to 4:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein. Cane sugar's quick-digesting nature ensures that athletes receive the necessary carbohydrates to complement protein intake, facilitating muscle repair and glycogen replenishment. Tart Cherry Cacao leverages this 4:1 ratio to aid in recovery.
3. Consistency and Taste
Cane sugar offers a clean, neutral sweetness that doesn't overpower other flavors. This consistency is crucial in product formulations, ensuring a pleasant taste profile that encourages consumption during and after physical activities.
Cane Sugar vs. Coconut Sugar: A Comparative Analysis
Aspect |
Cane Sugar |
Coconut Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Extracted from sugarcane stalks | Derived from the sap of coconut palms |
| Processing | Sugarcane juice is extracted, clarified, concentrated, and then refined to create white sugar. | The sap is heated to evaporate water, creating a syrup that is then dried and granulated. |
| Glycemic Index | Approximately 65 | Approximately 35 |
| Mineral Content | Minimal | Contains trace amounts of minerals |
| Carbohydrates per tsp | Approximately 4 g | Approximately 4 g |
| Caloric Content per tsp | Approximately 16 calories | Approximately 15 calories |
| Sweetness Level | Standard sweetness | Slightly less sweet |
| Cost | Generally more affordable | Typically more expensive |
While coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and contains trace minerals, these differences are minimal and unlikely to significantly impact athletic performance. Cane sugar's cost-effectiveness and consistent sweetness make it a practical choice for sports nutrition products.
Conclusion
Incorporating cane sugar into Neve's formulations aligns with our commitment to providing athletes with efficient, effective, and enjoyable nutrition. Its rapid digestibility, optimal carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, and consistent taste profile support performance and recovery needs. When compared to coconut sugar, cane sugar offers practical advantages without compromising nutritional integrity.
When formulating Neve, I asked myself, "How does this support the athlete?" for every single component. Neve uses cane sugar because it's the best option for flavor and performance. You can check our ingredient panels on our products.