Which dietary component is most crucial for sustaining energy levels during long-duration events?

Carbohydrates are the most crucial dietary component for sustaining energy levels during long-duration events due to their role in providing readily available energy. During prolonged exercise, the body relies heavily on glycogen stores, which are derived from carbohydrates, for fuel. Glycogen, stored in the muscles and liver, can be quickly broken down into glucose, allowing for efficient and immediate energy utilization.

While fats serve as a significant energy source during lower-intensity or longer-duration activities, they require more oxygen for metabolism and are not as readily accessible as carbohydrates. Proteins primarily function in muscle repair and recovery rather than serving as a direct energy source during exercise. Vitamins, although important for overall health and metabolic processes, do not provide energy in the form of calories and are not a primary fuel source.

In summary, carbohydrates are essential for maintaining optimal energy levels during endurance activities, making them the most important dietary component in this context.