Designed for High-Intensity Efforts
Just before Sea Otter Classic in early April ’25, Tailwind Nutrition launched its newest product― High Carb Fuel mix. This new product mix immediately caught my attention for a couple of reasons. First, it was developed with the help of Ellen Campbell, an elite cyclist I met at The Cycling House Tucson Women’s Gravel Camp last year. Ellen is a strong competitor in endurance gravel and mountain biking, competing in the LifeTime Grand Prix series.
The second reason I was drawn to High Carb Fuel is that I need a hydration/nutrition product for the Unbound Gravel 100 race. Navigating the Flint Hills of Kansas while trying to eat solid foods on the bike is no easy feat, and the risk of under-fueling is real. I want a product I can drink to keep me fueled and hydrated over 100 miles. Tailwind’s new mix seems like the perfect fit.
One of my biggest concerns is how my gut handles the high volume of carbs. I’ve been training my gut for several months, but the last thing I want is GI distress in the middle of nowhere.
Before using Tailwind, I’d attempt to consume solid food at a rate of 70-90 grams of carbs per hour. It was difficult to eat that much, and I wasn’t replacing my electrolytes. Then, I switched to a mixture of a hydration mix and solids. But still, I struggled to hit 70-90 grams per hour.
Over the past month, I’ve been training with 80-90% of carbs from Tailwind and the remaining 10-20% via real food, gels, or chews. This combination works best for me and keeps me mentally interested in fueling.
Purpose-built for high-intensity efforts
According to Tailwind, High Carb Fuel mix delivers 90 grams of carbohydrates per serving in the science-backed 2:1 glucose-to-fructose ratio—balancing with complete electrolytes to maximize energy absorption and minimize gastrointestinal distress.
“We’ve spent over a decade perfecting simple, effective fueling, and High Carb Fuel takes this to a new level,” said Jenny Vierling, Co-Founder of Tailwind Nutrition. “It’s a high-carb solution plus 660mg of sodium and 90mg of potassium in each serving. It’s not only powerful but easy on the gut, so athletes can perform at their peak without worrying about stomach issues.”
Choose from Two Flavors
High Carb Fuel comes in two flavors: Ginger Lime, featuring organic ginger extract to support digestion, and Lemonade, a refreshing option. The formula is easy to mix— one packet with 16-24 ounces of water―no complicated prep or waiting required.
At Unbound Gravel, I will fill a 2L hydration bladder with three packets of High Carb Fuel Lemonade, which will sustain me until mile 54, the first refueling stop. Then, I’ll switch to the Ginger Lime flavor for some variety; plus, the ginger should help if there’s any GI distress.
In my Unbound Gravel race report, I’ll share my experience with this product and a plethora of gear. Race day is May 31st, so more to come in a week or two.
Price: $3.99 single serving; $23.49 six single servings
Flavors: Ginger Lime, Lemonade
Carbs: 90 grams per serving
Calories: 360 per serving
Sodium: 680mg per serving
Potassium: 190mg per serving
Availability: Online or retail
How obtained: Company samples
As initially seen on Road Bike Rider
Sunflowers and Pedals 
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