Sometimes for an awesome new product to hit the market, all it takes is a couple of grad school students with a great idea. That's exactly what happened when Ian McCollum joined forces with Kevin Sherbourne to create Huma Chia Energy Gel, an incredibly great-tasting and smooth alternative to other energy gels and sports nutrition.
As a US Army Lieutenant serving in Iraq in 2009, McCollum was reading a book about a tribe of Mexican Indians that participate in 100 mile races as part of their culture. The tribe, called Tarahuma, uses a Chia plant seed to fuel them along the way. While trekking through the Iraqi deserts, McCollum tried the seed and was impressed by its benefits. Fast forward to his partnership with friend and businessman Kevin Sherbourne and the Huma (derived from the name of the tribe) Chia Energy Gel is born.
Thanks to an indiegogo campaign, the duo raised $10,814 to help cover the cost of production. The gel uses a formula that includes ground chia seeds for controlled carb absorption for steady energy release, evaporated cane juice and brown rice syrup that provides glucose and fructose, sea salt for sodium and potassium, citric acid to reduce physiological stress and physical fatigue, and fruit puree and filtered water for real flavor and smooth consistency. It currently comes in four flavors: blueberries, mangoes, apples & cinnamon, and strawberries.
A couple of us here at Holabird Sports had the privilege of trying the gel. I thought it tasted great and the consistency was incredibly smooth. It's perfect if you have a sweet tooth. Furthermore, I had no problems digesting it.
Greg said, "Personally, I like it better than the traditional nutritional gels. Though the 'Apples and Cinnamon' flavor was a tad sweet, the consistency of the gel was easier to take in, especially while running." Dustin added, "I have tried the Strawberry and Apples & Cinnamon and they are both delicious and have a very palatable consistency. Even more important than great flavor, these gels sit well in my stomach and don't make me feel ill unlike other energy gels I have tried. They’re so good; I could even eat them as a snack."
The Huma Chia Energy Gel is also gluten and dairy-free, and vegan friendly for more athletes to enjoy.
Huma Chia Energy Gel
