Which macronutrient is a primary source of energy for high-intensity workouts?

Question: Which macronutrient is a primary source of energy for high-intensity workouts?

If you are an athlete or a fitness enthusiast, you may wonder which macronutrient is a primary source of energy for high-intensity workouts. The answer is carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the main nutrients that fuel moderate to high-intensity exercise, such as sprinting, cycling, or lifting weights. These foods supply the body with glucose, which is converted to adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the direct source of energy for our muscles .

Carbohydrates are stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen, a form of glucose that can be quickly mobilized when needed. However, glycogen stores are limited and can be depleted after about an hour of intense exercise. This is why it is important to replenish carbohydrates before, during, and after high-intensity workouts to maintain optimal performance and prevent fatigue .

The amount of carbohydrates you need depends on several factors, such as your body weight, the duration and intensity of your workout, and your training goals. In general, the more active you are, the more carbohydrates you need. According to Mayo Clinic, if you are in good shape and want to fuel a daily, light-intensity workout, you should eat about 3 to 5 grams of carbohydrates for every kilogram of body weight. For someone who weighs 150 pounds (68 kilograms), that's between 200 and 340 grams a day. If you exercise more than an hour a day, you may need 6 to 10 grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight. For a 150-pound person, that's 408 to 680 grams a day.

The type and timing of carbohydrates also matter. You should choose healthy carbohydrates that are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts. Avoid refined carbohydrates that are high in sugar, fat, and calories, such as pastries, candy, soda, and chips. These foods can spike your blood sugar levels and cause inflammation.

You should also eat carbohydrates at the right time to optimize your energy levels and recovery. Here are some general guidelines:

- Before exercise: Eat a carbohydrate-rich meal or snack about three to four hours before your workout to fill up your glycogen stores. You can also have a small carbohydrate snack about 30 minutes before exercise to boost your blood glucose levels .

- During exercise: If your workout lasts longer than an hour, you may need to consume some carbohydrates during exercise to prevent glycogen depletion and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). You can have sports drinks, gels, bars, or dried fruits that provide about 30 to 60 grams of carbohydrates per hour .

- After exercise: Eat a carbohydrate-rich meal or snack within two hours after your workout to replenish your glycogen stores and enhance muscle repair. You should also include some protein to stimulate muscle protein synthesis and reduce muscle soreness. Aim for a ratio of 3:1 or 4:1 of carbohydrates to protein .

Carbohydrates are essential for high-intensity workouts because they provide the primary source of energy for your muscles. By eating the right amount and type of carbohydrates at the right time, you can improve your performance, endurance, and recovery.