In terms of exercise performance, how do carbohydrates support athletes?

Carbohydrates play a crucial role in supporting athletes by serving as the primary energy source for high-intensity exercise. When athletes engage in strenuous activities, their bodies rely predominantly on carbohydrates, which are stored as glycogen in muscles and the liver. During exercise, especially in endurance and high-intensity sports, the body converts these glycogen stores into glucose to fuel muscle contractions and sustain performance.

This energy provision is vital, as it helps maintain the intensity and duration of physical activities, promoting better performance and quicker recovery. In contrast, while good nutrition can influence sleep quality, muscle size, and fat loss, these processes are not the primary functions of carbohydrates in the context of immediate exercise performance. Hence, carbohydrates are essential for athletes to optimize their energy levels and enhance overall athletic performance.