A study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition concluded that a food bar containing the sweetener VitaFiber (from BioNeutra) and whey protein helps athletes in high-performance workouts.
 
The purpose of the study was to determine the glycemic and insulin reaction from eating the food bar compared to a standard dextrose preparation.  
 
Researchers recruited 12 highly trained males with athletic backgrounds between the ages of 18-35 with a Body Mass Index less than 25kg/m2. Each had to bench press their body weight, barbell squat at least 1.5 times their body weight and be in sprint condition. All participants were former high school or college athletes.  
 
Researchers found there was some evidence that the food bar with VitaFiber positively helped maintain workout performance and lessen the perception of muscle soreness. The study also demonstrated that the food bar did not result in high variability in glucose and insulin levels, so athletes did not experience peaks and valleys. Athletes often complain some energy products provide a rush and then a crash. The researchers found that the food bar provided an even level of energy.
 
The pilot study was an open label, randomized, counterbalanced crossover study. It followed a similar one which laid the groundwork for the current trial. Its results were published in the Austin Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences.
 
Both research teams were led by the Director of the Exercise and Sport Nutrition lab at Texas A&M University, Professor Richard Kreider, a sports performance expert and author of five books.