Q&A

Q: What's the difference between this EFS-PRO and the previous one?

A:  The main difference is that the new EFS-PRO formula makes it easy to get 60-120g carbs/bottle while being gentle on overworked digestive tracts. This article details how and why we developed it here: https://firstendurance.com/blogs/articles/coming-soon-high-carb-efs-pro 

Q:  How is EFS-PRO on sensitive stomachs?

A:  It’s designed specifically for those with sensitive stomachs. GI distress was one of our top priorities throughout the reformulation process. We used a special carbohydrate blend of Cyclic Cluster Dextrin and sucrose in order to prevent those performance-crippling stomach issues commonly experienced during longer/more demanding efforts.  

Q:  How should I use EFS-PRO?

A:  Consume one serving 30 minutes before exercise to top off electrolyte and carb levels beforehand. Use as needed during exercise.  

Q:  Is the formula Isotonic?

A:  Yes, the high carb EFS-PRO is isotonic, even at 2x strength.

Q: What size bottle should I use?

A:  While it comes down to personal preferences, we’ve found that a large bottle (750ML) is great for 1x or 2x strength.  

Q:  What’s the glucose/fructose ratio?

A:  6:1 Glc:Fru.

Q: Why did you choose that particular ratio instead of 1:1?

A:  We used a higher Glc:Fru ratio because:
-By using more CCD as the primary carb source, it's easier on the gut.
-The special CCD carbohydrate gets absorbed quicker.
-The latest research shows higher Glc:Fru ratios (like 6:1) are equivalent to 2:1 or 1:1, requiring little, if any, gut training.
-6:1 Glc:Fru ratio from Sucrose is more palatable than Glc:Fru 1:1 or 2:1.
-Fructose is 1.5X sweeter than Sucrose, and too much sweetness is a primary complaint of carb supplementation after a few hours of intense exercise- when you need carbs the most.
- Human endurance research shows that high levels of Fructose have a direct correlation to GI distress.

 Q: Do I need to take a full serving of EFS-PRO to get a benefit? 

A: No. A higher concentration increases calories and electrolytes. While our recommended serving concentration is designed to maximize theanine’s effects in a steady dose, ingesting reduced amounts will still produce a proportionally scaled effect in terms of promoting calm focus. In other words, if you are a smaller person and normally consume a somewhat reduced amount, you will still get the same benefits.

 Q: Does EFS-PRO have any stimulants in it?

No. In fact, it does the opposite, calming you down and maintaining a cool, collected approach to whatever you’re doing, whether that’s racing, training, or resting up the night before an event.

 Q: Can I use EFS-PRO with caffeine?

Yes. The calming effects of EFS and EFS-PRO affect you according to the baseline for caffeine consumption that you’ve established through your daily caffeine habit—err, intake. Keep drinking tea or coffee as usual. 

Q: Are there any artificial sweeteners, like stevia, or artificial flavors in EFS-PRO?

A:  Nope, we heard you loud and clear.  This new formula is naturally sweetened and naturally flavored.  

 Q: Why doesn’t EFS-PRO contain Vitamin C?

A: EFS-PRO doesn’t contain Vitamin C because the latest research shows that Vitamin C can have a negative effect on endurance and performance when consumed during exercise. Click here for more info.

 Q: Does EFS-PRO help me hydrate better than water?

A: We won’t name them, but there’s a growing list of competitors in the sports hydration game making the claim that their product hydrates better or faster than water alone. This is a so-what claim predicated on evidence that not only doesn’t apply to endurance athletics, but actually hampers performance during long-term endurance events. For their rationale and claims support these companies cite WHO and other medical guidelines for treating serious dehydration in disease and severe exposure conditions, not the sports nutrition guidelines for healthy athletes in endurance competitions. Also important is the need for more fuel, and these drinks fall short in the fuel department. Check out Dr. Bucci’s extended consideration of these claims here.

 Q: Is EFS-PRO safe for kids?

A: Yes. Just make sure they pay it back during their turns at the front. 

Q: How is the flavor? 

A: The new EFS-PRO formula went through extensive flavor testing in the most demanding conditions. We used this extensive feedback to create a flavor profile that mimics flavored water. With practically no sweetness this formula is ideal for those long, hot workouts where sweet drinks simply do not cut it. EFS-PRO is 100% natural flavors and contains NO color.

Q: Is EFS-PRO vegan friendly?
A: Yes.

Q: Is EFS-PRO gluten-free?
A: Yes.

 Q: How should I use EFS-PRO for races or training that lasts more than three hours?

A: New research suggests athletes can ingest more and more carbs per hour. For detailed information, check out this blog.

Q: When should I use EFS-PRO vs EFS?
A: We recommend using EFS-PRO when your training/racing longer than 2 hours, and/or if it's high-intensity or in extreme conditions (excess heat, high elevation, high humidity).

Q: How many servings are there per bag?
A: 18.