The Claim

Ingestion of carbohydrate with water (102 ± 50 g CHO; 0.8 ± 0.6 g CHO·kg⁻¹·h⁻¹) during recovery periods of ≤4 hours improves subsequent endurance or anaerobic athletic performance compared to water alone, with a mean increase in power output of 4.0% (95% CI: 3.2–4.7%), particularly in fasted individuals.

Source: Post-exercise Ingestion of Carbohydrate, Protein and Water: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis for Effects on Subsequent Athletic Performance

What the research says

Supports is higher

Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.

Supports
46score
Challenges
0score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Quantitative
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Drinking a carb mix with water after a workout—especially if you haven’t eaten—can give you a 4% boost in power during your next workout, as long as it’s within 4 hours.

See the scientific wording

Ingesting carbohydrate with water (102 ± 50 g CHO; 0.8 ± 0.6 g CHO·kg⁻¹·h⁻¹) improves subsequent endurance or anaerobic athletic performance compared to water alone, with a mean increase in power output of 4.0% (95% CI: 3.2–4.7%) when recovery time is ≤4 hours, particularly in fasted individuals.

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Post-exercise Ingestion of Carbohydrate, Protein and Water: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis for Effects on Subsequent Athletic Performance

    The study found that drinking a carb-containing drink after exercise helps athletes perform better in their next workout, especially if they haven’t eaten beforehand—just like the claim says.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.