HUMAN NUTRITION

Detailed explanation-1: -Why would a distance runner consume carbohydrates instead of proteins before a race? Carbohydrates provide insulation for heat. Carbohydrates provide structure for tissues. Carbohydrates provide genetic material for muscle cells.

Detailed explanation-2: -Carbs fuel the body with glycogen. This fuel is then stored in your muscles, which helps them perform. Not having enough carbs or cutting carbs out of your diet completely will make you feel fatigued and sluggish.

Detailed explanation-3: -In long-duration exercise, a greater contribution of exogenous carbohydrate (carbohydrate ingested in beverages or other foods) will spare liver glycogen, prevent a drop in blood glucose concentration, and help maintain the high rate of carbohydrate oxidation necessary to sustain exercise intensity.

Detailed explanation-4: -Your body prefers carbohydrate as the main fuel source when you run. In fact if carbohydrates are not present, your body will convert fat and protein into carbs for energy. This is a very inefficient form of energy for an endurance athlete.