Many long-distance swimmers / "carb-load/" before an endurance event like a 5 km swim. carbohydrate loading involves eating carbohydrate-rich meals several days to one week before the event. in fact, many groups sponsor dinners the night before a race and serve high-carbohydrate foods like pasta. however, studies are mixed about the usefulness of this practice. one problem in practice is that it is difficult to consume such a high level of carbohydrates over several days. event distance is a factor. also, studies have failed to consistently show that performance - speed and/or endurance - improves, even when the diet is followed. although some athletes report improved performance, it is possible that this is a placebo effect. genetic and gender differences may also play a role. regardless of its efficacy, what is the reasoning behind carbohydrate loading?

Question

Jethro

Biology

16 September, 16:36

Many long-distance swimmers / "carb-load/" before an endurance event like a 5 km swim. carbohydrate loading involves eating carbohydrate-rich meals several days to one week before the event. in fact, many groups sponsor dinners the night before a race and serve high-carbohydrate foods like pasta. however, studies are mixed about the usefulness of this practice. one problem in practice is that it is difficult to consume such a high level of carbohydrates over several days. event distance is a factor. also, studies have failed to consistently show that performance - speed and/or endurance - improves, even when the diet is followed. although some athletes report improved performance, it is possible that this is a placebo effect. genetic and gender differences may also play a role. regardless of its efficacy, what is the reasoning behind carbohydrate loading?

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Carlos Maddox · Answer 1

Carbohydrate loading, or carbo-loading, is one of the strategies used by athletes to maximize the storage of glycogen in the muscles and liver. This would lead to them getting more energy. This strategy is usually used by endurance athletes for events such as marathons or triathlons.