TrailGenic Science
Glycogen Refill Timing: Why Post-Hike Ice Cream Works
After a long hike, especially in a fasted state, your muscles are primed to absorb glycogen like a sponge. This is known as the glycogen window—first 1–3 hours post‑exercise, when glycogen synthase activity is highest. Glycogen is your body’s primary carbohydrate store in muscle and liver, fueling both aerobic and anaerobic efforts.
TrailGenic™ uses this window intentionally. By delaying carbs until after the hike, your body spends more time oxidizing fat and triggering autophagy—just like we outlined in Fasted Hiking & Autophagy. Then, at the summit or soon after, carbs are reintroduced to replenish glycogen stores, support muscle repair, and restore central nervous system function.
Post-hike ice cream isn’t just indulgence—the sugar provides fast-absorbing glucose, and the fat slows absorption enough to prevent a blood sugar crash. Combine it with protein in your recovery meal (think Science of Post‑Hike Protein Timing), and you're set up for faster recovery and readiness for the next summit.