Does HEED, orange contain dairy or gluten?

No. HEED, orange is free from dairy, gluten, soy, and eggs. The ingredients list relies on plant-based carbohydrates and mineral chelates.

Is HEED, orange good for weight loss?

It is not specifically designed for weight loss, but it is low calorie (approx. 100 per serving). Because it is low in sugar and high in flavor, it can satisfy cravings without adding significant fat, provided it is used as part of an active lifestyle.

Where can I buy HEED, orange?

HEED is available directly from the Hammer Nutrition website, as well as on Amazon and various independent bike and running shops.

Is HEED, orange safe for kids?

Yes, the ingredients are generally safe for children. However, because it contains Xylitol, it should be kept out of reach of very young children or dogs, as Xylitol can be toxic to pets.

Is HEED, orange Gluten Free?

Yes, HEED, orange is gluten-free. Based on a detailed review of its ingredients list, this sports drink mix contains no wheat, barley, rye, or gluten-derived additives. It is a safe option for those with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, and it is also free from dairy and major allergens.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When evaluating a product for gluten content, we look for the obvious culprits and the hidden ones. HEED, orange relies on a formula designed for energy and hydration without using gluten-containing grains. The primary energy source is Tapioca Maltodextrin. Tapioca is derived from the cassava root, making it naturally gluten-free and a safe carbohydrate source for those with Celiac disease. Unlike maltodextrin derived from wheat (which is processed to remove gluten but often flagged), tapioca poses no risk.

The flavor profile comes from Natural Flavors and Stevia Leaf Extract. In the context of a sports nutrition product like HEED, natural flavors are synthesized from non-gluten sources to create the orange taste. There are no hydrolyzed wheat proteins or yeast extracts used here, which are common hiding spots for gluten in processed foods.

Finally, the electrolyte and mineral complex—consisting of Sodium Phosphate, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, and Manganese Amino Acid Chelate—are inorganic or chelated minerals. These are bound to amino acids for better absorption and are completely free of gluten. The verdict is clear: the formulation is intentionally clean regarding allergens.

Nutritional Value

HEED, orange is formulated as a performance fuel rather than a meal replacement, meaning it is low in fat and protein but optimized for quick energy. A standard serving contains approximately 100 calories, derived almost entirely from carbohydrates. Specifically, it uses Xylitol and tapioca maltodextrin. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that provides sweetness without spiking blood sugar as aggressively as sucrose, though it can cause digestive distress in sensitive individuals if consumed in excess.

Regarding sugar content, HEED is notable for being very low sugar compared to traditional sports drinks like Gatorade. It contains only 2 grams of sugar per serving, relying on Monk Fruit Extract and Stevia for sweetness. This makes it an excellent choice for endurance athletes who need sustained energy without the 'sugar crash,' or for anyone monitoring their glycemic load. The inclusion of L-Carnosine and Glycine suggests a focus on buffering muscle acidity (lactic acid) and aiding recovery, adding functional value beyond just hydration.