Which of the following is a primary risk of a very low carbohydrate diet for athletes?

A very low carbohydrate diet poses a primary risk of decreased performance for athletes because carbohydrates are a crucial source of energy for high-intensity and endurance activities. Carbohydrates are stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen, which is readily available during exercise. When an athlete significantly reduces carbohydrate intake, glycogen stores can become depleted, leading to fatigue and reduced exercise capacity. This can manifest as decreased strength, endurance, and overall athletic performance, particularly in sports that require prolonged or high-intensity efforts.

While other options may imply potential benefits or improvements, the fundamental issue lies in energy availability. Without sufficient carbohydrates, athletes may struggle to maintain the intensity and duration of their workouts, ultimately hindering their performance. Additionally, the body's ability to recover from strenuous workouts relies on adequate carbohydrate intake to replenish glycogen stores and support muscle repair, which may not occur effectively on a very low carbohydrate diet.