Carbohydrate Presentation

carbohydrates

How they function,what they do and etc...

What is a carbohydrate

Carbohydrates (also called carbs) are a type of macronutrient found in certain foods and drinks. Sugars, starches and fiber are carbohydrates. Other macronutrients include fat and protein. Your body needs these macronutrients to stay healthy.

What does a carbohydrate do?

Your digestive system breaks down carbs into glucose or blood sugar. Your bloodstream absorbs glucose and uses it as energy to fuel your body. The amount of carbs you consume affects blood sugar. Taking in a lot of carbs can raise blood sugar levels. High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can put you at risk for diabetes. Some people who don’t consume enough carbs have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

Why carbohydrates are used for energy

In general, carbohydrates form the main energy source for the body. They are the most efficient at producing ATP or energy (meaning they produce lots more ATP per amount of the fuel broken down).

The main role of carbohydrates in physical activity is to provide energy. For athletes, if their diet does not contain enough carbohydrate, it is likely that their performance and recovery will be impaired, as carbohydrate is the key fuel for the brain and for muscles during exercise.

How they impact athletic performance

It takes time for the body to properly digest food, so try to eat your pregame meal three to four hours before a practice, game or performance. A small, carbohydrate-rich snack just one hour before exercise also is a good idea to provide your body with an additional source of fuel.

When is the best time to fuel your body before an exercise or game

sources

• https://www.nutrition.org.uk/healthyliving/an-active-lifestyle/eating-for-sport-and-exercise.html?start=1

• https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-best-fuel-for-your-body-before-playing-sports/

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15416-carbohydrates

• https://healthengine.com.au/info/metabolism-and-energetics