This article was originally published on Clean Eating.
Supporting your activity with nutritious foods is essential for performance, recovery, and results. Protein, fats, and carbohydrates are the three macronutrients that play crucial roles. But carbohydrates are especially important; they’re your body’s primary fuel source, providing the energy to power through your training, replenishing lost energy stores and boosting muscle repair.
Why Carbohydrates Matter When You’re Working Out
Your carbohydrate needs depend on the type, intensity, and duration of your training, body size and composition, and personal goals. Some carbs are high in fiber and nutrients that support long-term energy and balance blood sugar. Others are faster absorbing and give your body a quick boost of glycogen, which supports muscle growth and repair.
What’s glycogen? It’s made from glucose molecules bound together in long chains, and it’s the stored form of glucose in the body, reserved in your muscles and liver. When you exercise, your body uses up your glycogen stores to provide quick fuel to power your activity. Muscle…
