This article highlights the relevance of carbohydrates as the main source of energy for performance in sports. It is stressed that the correct intake of carbohydrates before, during and after exercise is vital to optimize performance, avoid fatigue and speed up recovery. Not only are carbohydrates critical for maintaining energy during exercise, but they also play a crucial role in adapting to training and decreasing the risk of injury and overtraining. Additionally, it is pointed out that the quality of sleep and hydration are additional elements that favor the optimal performance of the athlete. In addition to the influence of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins on energy metabolism, underlining the relevance of the effectiveness of metabolic pathways for high-intensity activities. It is proposed that tailoring nutritional strategies to the particular needs of each athlete can lead to noticeable improvements in performance and overall health. Finally, it can be deduced that a correct intake of carbohydrates not only impacts physical condition, but also mood and cognitive function, underlining the importance of carbohydrates in sports and muscle rehabilitation. This knowledge provides a firm basis for practical suggestions based on sports nutrition studies.
Cabrera et al. (Wed,) studied this question.