Carb10® – what is it and why is it used in dietary supplements?
Carb10® is a patented carbohydrate extract from peas (Pisum sativum) used in dietary supplements to deliver energy with a low glycemic response and minimal insulin impact. It is developed by Compound Solutions—the same company behind PerforMelon®—and is one of the few patented carbohydrates with a clinically documented low glycemic effect.
But what does a low glycemic response mean in practice? And why does Skytrition choose to combine Carb10® with Cluster Dextrin™ in CarbUP?
Here, we go through everything you need to know.
What is Carb10®?
Carb10® is a patented and standardized carbohydrate extract from peas. It is a complex carbohydrate with a unique molecular structure that allows it to be absorbed more slowly than simple sugars and many other carbohydrates.
What makes Carb10® unique is its documented low impact on blood sugar and insulin compared to maltodextrin – one of the most common carbohydrate sources in dietary supplements.
What is glycemic response and why does it matter?
Glycemic response is a measure of how quickly and significantly a food raises blood sugar after ingestion. A high glycemic response means a rapid blood sugar spike followed by an equally rapid drop – the so-called "energy crash."
For athletes, this can be problematic:
- A sharp blood sugar spike during exercise can be followed by a rapid drop that negatively affects performance
- High insulin response can inhibit fat burning during exercise
- Significant blood sugar fluctuations can affect focus and energy levels
Carb10® is designed to provide a steady and controlled release of energy without these sharp fluctuations.
Carb10® compared to maltodextrin
Maltodextrin is the most common carbohydrate source in dietary supplements – inexpensive, easily soluble, and rapidly absorbed. However, it has a high glycemic index and causes sharp blood sugar spikes.
Carb10® is clinically tested and shows:
- 82% lower insulin response compared to maltodextrin
- 27% lower blood sugar response compared to maltodextrin
- Steadier and more controlled energy release
Source: Compound Solutions clinical data for Carb10®.
How is Carb10® used in dietary supplements?
Carb10® is used as a carbohydrate source in formulas where the goal is steady energy release without sharp blood sugar fluctuations. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Carbohydrate products for intra-workout use
- Pre-workout formulas where steady energy is a priority
- Products aimed at athletes who want to avoid sharp insulin spikes
Carb10® and Cluster Dextrin™ – a powerful combination
In Skytrition's CarbUP, Carb10® is combined with Cluster Dextrin™ for a broad carbohydrate spectrum:
- Cluster Dextrin™ – fast gastric emptying and immediate energy availability
- Carb10® – steady and controlled energy release with a low glycemic response
Together, they provide both fast and long-lasting energy – without stomach discomfort and without sharp blood sugar fluctuations.
When is it best to take Carb10®?
- Before training – for steady energy throughout the session without a blood sugar dip
- During training (intra-workout) – for continuous energy supply with minimal insulin impact
- For athletes sensitive to blood sugar fluctuations – as a more stable alternative to maltodextrin
In which Skytrition products is Carb10® found?
Carb10® is used in:
- CarbUP – Carbohydrates – an advanced carbohydrate product with Cluster Dextrin™, Carb10®, and GlycerSize™ for optimal energy, hydration, and performance
What should you consider when choosing products with Carb10®?
1. The dose of Carb10®
Check how much Carb10® is included per serving. An effective dose is usually 15–30 g depending on training intensity.
2. The combination with other carbohydrates
Carb10® is often combined with faster carbohydrates like Cluster Dextrin™ for a broader energy spectrum.
3. Goals and training type
Carb10® is particularly well-suited for long-duration endurance sessions where steady energy is more important than an immediate burst of energy.
Frequently asked questions about Carb10®
What is Carb10® made of?
Carb10® is a patented carbohydrate extract from peas (Pisum sativum), developed by Compound Solutions.
Why does Carb10® have a low glycemic response?
Carb10® is a complex carbohydrate with a molecular structure that allows it to be absorbed more slowly than simple sugars and maltodextrin.
Can you take Carb10® during training?
Yes, Carb10® is suitable for intra-workout use thanks to its steady energy release and low insulin response.
In which Skytrition products is Carb10® found?
Carb10® is included in CarbUP.
Is Carb10® gluten-free?
Yes, Carb10® is based on peas and is naturally gluten-free.
Summary
Carb10® is a patented pea carbohydrate with a documented low glycemic response and minimal insulin impact. It delivers steady and controlled energy – ideal for athletes who want to avoid blood sugar fluctuations during exercise.
It is included in Skytrition's CarbUP together with Cluster Dextrin™ and GlycerSize™ for a complete carbohydrate and hydration formula.
More ingredient guides
Would you like to read more about other patented ingredients in Skytrition products?
- Cluster Dextrin™ – high-molecular-weight cyclic dextrin for fast energy and minimal stomach impact
- GlycerSize™ – high-concentration glycerol for pump and hydration in CarbUP
- AstraGin® – the absorption enhancer that helps the body absorb nutrients better
- PerforMelon® – natural citrulline and electrolytes from watermelon
