What is the recommended carbohydrate consumption for endurance athletes?

Endurance athletes have unique nutritional needs due to the high demands of their training and competitions. The recommended carbohydrate consumption for these athletes is in the range of 7 to 10 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. This higher intake supports their energy needs, aids in maintaining glycogen stores, and enhances performance and recovery.

Endurance events, which can last for several hours, require a significant amount of readily available energy. Carbohydrates are the primary fuel source for high-intensity exercise, and consuming them at this level helps to optimize physical endurance, improve training adaptations, and ensure that athletes can perform at their best without depleting energy reserves.

The lower carbohydrate recommendations would not adequately support the energy requirements of athletes engaged in extensive training and competition, which is why they are not suitable for endurance athletes. The focus on 7 to 10 g/kg/day allows for sufficient glycogen replenishment and helps stave off fatigue, promoting improved performance over extended periods.