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Who HEED is for and when to use it
HEED is designed for athletes who want drinkable energy during cycling, running and endurance training. It is ideal for workouts and races lasting up to around 2–3 hours, making it a practical choice for club rides, sportives, time trials, running sessions, gym work and shorter endurance races.
Each serving provides calories and electrolytes, so it works well when you want one bottle to support both energy and hydration.
Citric-acid-free carbohydrate sports drink with electrolytes. Best for running, cycling and racing up to 2–3 hours.
Choose your HEED
Price: £3.30 per sachet
Servings: 1 serving per sachet mixed into 500 -750ml of water
Choose your flavour: Cherry Bomb, Lemon-Lime or Orange
Which option is right for you?
| Option | Best for | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Mixed-flavour Sampler Kit | First purchase | Try all 3 flavours |
| 12-Sachet Bundle | Race bag & travel — discounted bundle | ↓ Select 12 sachets below & save |
| 32- or 70-serving Tub | Regular training — best price per serving | Best price per serving |
Key benefits
- Provides steady energy from complex carbohydrates
- Supplies calories and balanced electrolytes in one drink
- Citric acid-free formula with no refined sugars
- Light-tasting and easy to sip regularly
- Designed for cycling, running and endurance training lasting up to around 2–3 hours
Fuel your training with clean, long-lasting energy — no spikes and no gut issues.
Is HEED right for you?
- Best for: Sessions lasting under three hours
- Use it for: Steady energy, hydration support and a subtle taste
- A good choice if: You want carbohydrates and electrolytes in one drink
- Start with: One sampler pack or an endurance fuel kit
- Pair it with: Bars or gel when exercising for more than two hours
- For longer sessions: Use Perpetuem for events lasting more than three hours
- Additional benefit: Beneficial for healthy teeth and gums
HEED is widely used by endurance athletes involved in running, cycling and triathlon who want a simple, easy-to-digest drink mix that supports hydration and steady energy throughout longer workouts. It is also a practical choice when plain water is not enough and an ideal sports drink for high-intensity exercise.
Why HEED is different from typical sports drinks
Most sports drinks are made with simple sugars and acidic flavouring agents. Although these products may provide quick energy, they can also lead to rapid blood-sugar spikes, crashes and digestive discomfort during longer workouts.
Unlike many commercial sports drinks, HEED uses complex carbohydrates, balanced electrolytes and natural flavours to support sustained performance and stable blood sugar.
HEED offers:
- Steady energy from complex carbohydrates
- Hydration support from a balanced electrolyte profile
- A citric acid-free formula
- No refined sugars
- A light taste that is easy to drink during longer workouts
- A formula designed specifically for endurance athletes
New to endurance fuelling? Read our [Beginner’s Guide to Endurance Fuelling], covering what to eat before, during and after training, how many calories you need and which products to start with.
How to use HEED during training
HEED is typically used during workouts lasting longer than one hour.
Before training — Use HEED to top up your energy before you begin.
Endurance sessions lasting 1–2 hours — Mix one scoop of HEED with water and sip it consistently during exercise.
Longer endurance training lasting more than two hours — Use HEED regularly throughout the session and combine it with additional electrolytes when necessary.
Individual requirements may vary depending on body size, temperature and exercise intensity.
HEED compared with typical sugary sports drinks
| HEED | Typical sugary sports drinks |
| Sustained energy | Quick spike and crash |
| Easy digestion | Can cause stomach issues |
| Stable blood sugar | Energy rollercoaster |
| Endurance-focused | Short-term boost |
Stop relying on sugar highs and hoping for the best. Switch to HEED for steady, reliable energy and feel the difference during your next session.
Ingredient breakdown
Tapioca maltodextrin — HEED 2.0
Tapioca maltodextrin is less processed and non-GMO. It has a lower mono- and disaccharide content, a much higher percentage of polysaccharides due to its lower dextrose equivalent, less sodium and a pH that is closer to neutral.
Corn maltodextrin — HEED Classic
Corn maltodextrin is a high-glycaemic-index complex carbohydrate. It is ideal for providing fast-acting, long-lasting energy during exercise and replenishing the body’s energy, or glycogen, stores after exercise.
Xylitol
This natural sweetener is found in a variety of fibrous fruits and vegetables. It promotes oral health because it does not ferment or support the acid-producing bacteria that cause tooth decay.
Important: Xylitol is believed to be unsafe for dogs. Do not feed your dog any product containing xylitol, including HEED or Recoverite.
Full-spectrum electrolyte profile
The complete profile of sodium, chloride, calcium, magnesium and potassium helps maintain the performance of many important bodily functions during exercise, while also helping to protect against muscle cramping.
L-carnosine
L-carnosine is one of the most versatile and beneficial nutrients available. It buffers lactic acid during exercise and provides antioxidant support.
Glycine
Glycine helps with muscle-tissue repair, protects collagen in the joints and reduces joint pain. It also has a naturally sweet taste, contributing to HEED’s flavour.
L-tyrosine
L-tyrosine aids the function of the adrenal, pituitary and thyroid glands, which are responsible for producing and regulating numerous key hormones. This contributes to improved performance and reduced recovery time.
Manganese
This trace mineral is necessary for optimal muscle-cell enzyme reactions and the conversion of fatty acids and protein into energy.
ChromeMate® chromium polynicotinate
This trace mineral helps regulate blood sugar and plays a vital role in the synthesis of glucose, fatty acids and amino acids.
Fuelling a long event? Read our Perpetuem Long-Distance Fuelling Guide to learn when to use Perpetuem instead of gels, how to calculate mixing ratios and calorie targets, and how to plan your race-day fuelling for events lasting more than three hours.
FAQ
Is HEED a sports drink without citric acid?
Yes. HEED is formulated without citric acid, making it a useful choice for athletes looking for an alternative to many conventional sports drinks. Always check the current ingredient list before ordering, especially if you have a specific sensitivity.
Is HEED good for cyclists?
Yes. HEED is a good option for cyclists who want calories and electrolytes in one bottle during training rides, sportives, time trials and shorter races. It is particularly useful for rides lasting up to around 2–3 hours.
Is HEED an energy drink for two-hour races?
Yes. HEED is well suited to two-hour races and demanding training sessions because it provides drinkable calories and electrolytes without requiring a separate gel or food source during shorter endurance efforts.
What is the difference between HEED and Perpetuem?
HEED is best suited to shorter workouts and races lasting up to around 2–3 hours. Perpetuem is designed for longer endurance events where athletes require more sustained fuel from carbohydrates, protein and healthy fat.
Can HEED and Perpetuem be used in a hydration-pack bladder?
Yes. However, because Perpetuem is thicker due to its complex carbohydrates, protein and healthy fat, it has a greater potential to cause a blockage. HEED is an all-carbohydrate fuel with no protein or fat, so it is easier to mix and consume from a hydration pack.
What is taurine, and what is its purpose in Cherry Bomb HEED?
Taurine is an amino acid found throughout the body, particularly in muscle and nerve tissue. It helps regulate heartbeat, muscle contractions and levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Taurine also increases concentration and focus without stimulating the nervous system and is correlated with improvements in VO2 max and time to exhaustion.
Is HEED safe for young athletes?
HEED is considered 100% safe for young athletes and a better choice than the many sports drinks that contain large amounts of refined sugar and citric acid, as well as artificial sweeteners, flavours and colours.
Why do you use maltodextrin instead of sugar in your fuels?
Read The Benefits of Maltodextrin for more information.
Does HEED contain any dairy products, and is it gluten-free?
HEED contains no dairy products and is 100% gluten-free.
Why did the sodium content increase in HEED?
The latest HEED formulation contains 150 mg of sodium per serving, compared with 60 mg in the original formula. We added sodium phosphate — not salt — which buffers excess acidity and helps maintain optimal blood and muscle pH.
Why did you switch to tapioca-derived maltodextrin for HEED 2.0?
Tapioca maltodextrin, derived from cassava root, offers several advantages over corn-derived maltodextrin. Read about the key advantages of tapioca-derived maltodextrin.
When should I use HEED or Perpetuem?
HEED is a carbohydrate-only drink mix ideal for exercise lasting up to 2–3 hours. Perpetuem is a carbohydrate, protein and healthy-fat drink mix ideal for longer workouts and races.
Should I use Hammer Gel or HEED?
Either product can work. Hammer Gel is best for athletes who prefer plain water for hydration. HEED is best for athletes who do not enjoy drinking plain water while exercising. Both are ideal during exercise lasting up to 2–3 hours.
What is the difference between HEED and Endurolytes or Endurolytes Fizz?
HEED provides calories and electrolytes. Endurolytes and Endurolytes Fizz provide electrolytes only. Read the full HEED vs Endurolytes Fizz comparison.
How much HEED do I need per hour?
Most athletes weighing around 200 lb find that 1.5–1.75 scoops (165–192.5 calories) is an excellent hourly amount, equivalent to approximately 1.5–2 Endurolytes capsules.
Can I mix HEED in advance?
Yes. Refrigerated HEED retains its potency for 24–36 hours. Shake before drinking if minerals have settled.
Why is the flavour so light?
The light flavour is intentional. We use small amounts of xylitol and stevia rather than sugar or artificial sweeteners, resulting in a drink that provides 110 calories per scoop without an overly sweet or syrupy taste.
Other useful products and electrolytes
Endurolytes Electrolyte Capsules
Hammer Gel Energy Gel
Perpetuem Endurance Fuel
VIDEO
Related Guides
- How to Fuel for an Olympic Distance Triathlon
- Electrolytes vs Sports Drinks — where to start
- Best Hydration for Marathon Training
- Endurance Nutrition — Know Your Calories Per Hour
- Cycling Hydration Guide
Let customers speak for us
Extremely useful to use whilst cycling, removes the faff of opening gels whilst cycling and the solid bottle makes it easy to get in / out of jersey pockets.
Brilliant product - i use these in all my endurance events - some lasting up to 20 hours. These are great to ensure you get the required electrolytes without over hydrating.
Great service and the products are amazing, especially for endurance sports. I'm a big fan of the Endrolytes Electrolyte Caps. Their magnesium supplement and vitamin D are also very very good! I would highly recommend.
I’ve used Hammer products for around 6 years now & my favourite by a mile is the hammer Perpetuem, it’s fueled my last 100 mile ultra marathon not to mention multiple long distance triathlon's . It has 180calories per serving and it’s 34g of carbs & 5g of protein seems to work well . I’d strongly recommend for anyone who wants to take on ultra races as this fuel will support you when you need it most .
I started using Hammer Heed and Perpetuem 5 years ago and it's been such a game changer for my. Finding nutrition you can trust is so important for any athlete and I highly recommend Hammer Nutrition for any distance and any sport.
I couldnt race without hammer products. Heed is my favourite, such an amazing product. Paired with the gels it makes a great fueling recipe. Always fast shipping
Wonderful product for general Well being and Recovery. Great quick shipping.
Love all your products. I personally will concentrate on the perpetuum for my long swim(45km) as it feels like a meal every 4mins.
Thank you
great taste! great weight to calorie ratio! thanks
Great quality feel and easy to drink from whilst riding.
No plastic smells either.
Just need a few different colours?
Help me through a 70 miler. Would recommend 👌
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my delivery take and how much does it cost?
Orders placed before 2:00 PM (UK time) are dispatched the same working day. Standard delivery to mainland Great Britain takes 2–5 days at a flat rate of £3.50, or free on orders over £10.
Large tubs are automatically upgraded to DPD next-day delivery. Shipping to Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Scottish Highlands costs £4.50, or free on orders over £80.
Can I change or cancel my order after placing it?
Because we process and dispatch orders quickly, we are usually unable to modify products, delivery methods, or addresses after submission.
To cancel an order, you must contact us on the same calendar day it was placed. If dispatch has already occurred, you can return the unused items within 14 days at your own shipping expense.
What is your returns policy if I change my mind?
You have 14 days from the day after delivery to cancel your order. Items must be unused, in their original packaging, and in resaleable condition. Important Step:
You must email us via the bottom of our Home Page first to obtain a Returns Authorisation Number and a free Royal Mail returns sticker; unauthorised returns cannot be processed.
Note that opened, sealed supplements cannot be returned for hygiene reasons.
What should I do if my order is damaged, faulty, or incorrect?
Check your parcel immediately upon arrival. If there is an issue, notify us within 48 hours of delivery via teh contact us at the bottom of our Home page.
Please include your order number, a description of the issue, and photos of the damaged items and packaging. We will provide a free replacement or full refund.
How long do refunds take to process?
Once your return is received, inspected, and approved, we process refunds back to your original payment method (card, PayPal, or bank transfer).
This typically takes place within 7 working days, and always within a maximum window of 30 days.
Are Hammer Nutrition products safe for drug-tested athletes?
Yes. Key products within our range—including Endurolytes (4ct/120ct), Endurolytes Extreme (3ct/120ct), Endurolytes Extreme Powder, and Endurolytes Fizz - are officially Informed Sport certified.
Additionally, our products are manufactured in strict ISO, GMP-compliant, and SQF Level 3 Certified facilities to ensure the highest standards of food safety and purity.
What do you use to flavour your sports nutrition products?
We use only premium ingredients with zero artificial flavours, artificial sweeteners, or chemical colorants.
Our natural flavours are extracted from real food sources (such as fruits, essential oils, and botanicals) in full compliance with FDA regulations.
They are entirely derived from non-allergenic materials and are formulated for a clean, subtle, non-sweet taste.
What should I do if my order has not arrived?
Estimated transit times are 2–5 days. If your parcel has not arrived within 5 days of placing your order, notify us immediately via our contact us at the bottom of our Home page.
We will launch an investigation with the carrier and provide updates or arrange a replacement where appropriate.
Do you accept backorders for out-of-stock items?
No, we do not accept backorders. If an item is currently unavailable, you can enter your email address in the "email me when back in stock" widget directly on the product page to receive an automated real-time notification the moment inventory is replenished.
Are your supplements suitable for specific dietary restrictions?
Our clean sports nutrition range is formulated to support optimal body function and is completely free from gluten, artificial preservatives, and artificial colorants.
If you have specific medical conditions or severe allergen concerns, we recommend checking the explicit ingredient panels or consulting a healthcare professional prior to consumption.