Carbohydrates – Do You Have a Love/Hate Relationship?


By Carol Dittenhofer, RD, MPH


Carbohydrates have certainly received much attention the past few years. High protein diets have created a "phobia" surrounding this very important nutrient. Adequate carbohydrate stores (muscle, liver and blood) are critical for optimum athletic performance.

Consuming adequate carbohydrates on a daily basis is necessary to replenish muscle and liver glycogen between daily training sessions and competitive events. Consuming carbohydrates prior to running can aid in one’s performance by "topping off" muscle and liver stores of glycogen, maintaining blood glucose levels and maintaining carbohydrate oxidation.

How much carbohydrate intake is enough? Stay tuned!



Article submitted to
BUFFALORUNNERS.COM in December 2000.