Health Nutrition

Our Dietitian Eliza answers your top questions about UP&GO™

Our Dietitian Eliza answers your top questions about UP&GO™
Health NutritionAsk a Dietitian

Busy mornings can make it hard to sit down for a balanced breakfast. Whether you’re heading to work, school, training or simply juggling a full day, having a convenient option on hand can help you avoid skipping breakfast altogether. 

UP&GO™ has been designed as a nutritious on-the-go option for those times when a sit-down breakfast isn’t possible. But what exactly does it provide, and which product in the range is right for you? We asked Sanitarium Accredited Practising Dietitian Eliza Baird to answer some of the most common nutrition questions about UP&GO™. 

What are the nutritional benefits of UP&GO?

Protein
Protein plays an important role in the body. It helps support muscle growth and recovery and also contributes to healthy bones when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle. 

Fibre
Fibre is an essential nutrient in a healthy diet to promote digestive wellbeing. It helps promote a happier gut by supporting regularity and helping keep things moving on the inside. 

11 vitamins and minerals
The UP&GO family contains 11 essential vitamins and minerals, including:

  • Vitamin A
  • Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1 
  • Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2 
  • Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 
  • Vitamin B6 
  • Vitamin B12 
  • Vitamin C 
  • Vitamin D 
  • Calcium 
  • Phosphorus 
  • Potassium 

“Vitamins and minerals play key roles in our body when consumed as part of a healthy, balanced diet, each promoting health benefits in their own way,” says Eliza. For example: 

Vitamins B3, B6 and B12 support a healthy mind and help fight tiredness and fatigue. 

Vitamins A and C support a healthy immune system. 

Calcium and phosphorus are key for healthy bones, while vitamin D supports the absorption of these two nutrients.  

Potassium helps support muscle function and is essential for regular electrolyte balance. 

Low GI energy
GI stands for glycaemic index, which measures how carbohydrate-containing foods affect blood sugar levels. 

What is the difference between Low GI and High GI foods?

High GI carbohydrates are digested quickly, causing blood sugar levels to rise more rapidly – often referred to as a spike – followed by a fall, sometimes called a crash. Low GI carbohydrates are digested more slowly, helping blood sugar levels rise more gradually.

It's also important to remember that the GI of the whole meal matters. Nutrients such as protein, fibre and fats can all play a role in how quickly carbohydrates are digested.

If you'd like to dive deeper into GI, you can read more here.

Is UP&GO only for the morning?

UP&GO can be enjoyed at other times of the day! It can be a convenient choice as:

  • A nutrition top-up between meals
  • A source of energy before sport
  • A refuel option after exercise
  • A quick option when you're short on time

"Personally, I'll enjoy an UP&GO prior to hitting the gym after work to give me a quality source of energy to fuel my workout," says Eliza.

Which UP&GO is right for me?

There are a few different options in the UP&GO range, so the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences and lifestyle.

UP&GO OG
The original UP&GO is a great everyday option for on-the-go nutrition. It’s designed for those busy moments when you need something convenient to help fuel your day. 

UP&GO Protein Energize
UP&GO Protein Energize may suit older teens and adults looking for a higher protein option. The high protein content in this range helps keep hunger at bay and is also a great post-workout refuel option to support muscle growth and recovery.  

UP&GO No Added Sugar
UP&GO No Added Sugar is designed for those wanting less sugar or no added sugar. This range contains naturally occurring sugars mostly from milk (also known as lactose) as well as from the cereal, fibre and/or cocoa ingredients. 

UP&GO Dairy Free
UP&GO Dairy Free is a great option for those who prefer or need a dairy-free choice. Better yet, it is also vegan-friendly and gluten free! 

Across the range, UP&GO products are available in different flavours and sizes, making it easy to find an option that suits your taste and routine. 

Is UP&GO a complete meal replacement, and can I enjoy it every day?

UP&GO is a nutritious on-the-go option, but it is not intended to be a complete meal replacement. While UP&GO is suitable to enjoy daily, it’s important to make sure you still eat a variety of nutritious core foods throughout the day such as fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts and seeds, as well as drink plenty of water.

For a more filling breakfast or snack, you can pair UP&GO with other nutritious foods, such as: 

  • A piece of fruit
  • A handful of nuts
  • Wholegrain toast
  • Yoghurt
  • A boiled egg

Don't forget to still enjoy a sit-down brekkie some days when you do have the time, as it’s a fantastic opportunity to fit some core foods into your day, such as wholegrains. Learn about how breakfast can kickstart your day here.

Have more questions?

Reach out to one of our dietitians via our Ask a Dietitian service here.