What is the recommended carbohydrate intake for endurance athletes?

The recommended carbohydrate intake for endurance athletes is essential for optimizing performance and recovery. Endurance athletes often experience prolonged exercise durations that deplete glycogen stores, which are the body’s primary source of energy during such activities. The intake level of 6 to 10 grams of carbohydrates per kilogram of body weight aligns with research indicating that higher carbohydrate availability is crucial for enhancing endurance performance and delaying fatigue.

This range allows athletes to maintain high-intensity effort over extended periods by ensuring that they have sufficient glycogen stores. Additionally, it supports adequate recovery post-exercise, as the right carbohydrate intake promotes muscle glycogen resynthesis, preparing the athlete for subsequent training sessions or competitions.

Lower carbohydrate intake levels, such as those mentioned in the other options, may not adequately support the energy demands and recovery needs that endurance athletes experience, thereby potentially impairing performance and recovery. Thus, adhering to the recommended range of 6 to 10 grams per kilogram of body weight is crucial for those engaged in endurance sports.