Rice Krispies Treats trend as latest fitness fuel of choice

CapeTalk and 702's Africa Melane speaks to Liezel van der Westhuizen about trending online stories.

Listen below:

Could your childhood snack be the secret to crushing your next workout?

According to TikTok trends and a growing number of endurance athletes, Rice Krispies Treats are the new pre-workout fuel of choice.

Van der Westhuizen's research shows that Rice Krispie Treat can "supercharge" your workout, because it provides fast-digesting simple carbohydrates, which are the body's preferred energy source for high-intensity or longer-duration exercise.

The treat's low fat and protein content allows for quick digestion and absorption, delivering energy to your muscles when they need it most.

Athletes use them as a convenient and easily accessible pre-workout fuel... or even during endurance events to replenish glycogen stores and delay fatigue.

These treats can be a simple alternative to energy gels while running or working out, says Van der Westhuizen.

It can be helpful for endurance post exercise, while it's low fat and low in protein content – which means it's easily digestible, so it won't upset your gut.

"It's a really quick energy source," adds Van der Westhuizen.

Here's an easy Rice Krispies Treats recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons butter

• Mini marshmallows (about 6 cups)

• 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal

Instructions:

Melt butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

Add marshmallows: Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Mix in cereal: Quickly stir in the Rice Krispies cereal until evenly coated.

Transfer to pan: Press the mixture into a greased pan (use wax paper or buttered hands to press it evenly).

Cool & cut: Let cool for about 30 minutes, then cut into squares.

Optional:

• Add-ins: Chocolate chips, peanut butter, or sprinkles for extra flavor.

• Make it gooey: Use 7 cups marshmallows instead of 6 for softer treats.

• Use parchment paper in the pan for easy removal.

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