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Alimentation sportive

Carbohydrate Loading

Increasing carbohydrate intake before competition to optimize energy reserves.

Definition

A nutritional strategy that progressively increases carbohydrate intake in the days leading up to a competition to maximize muscle glycogen reserves.

How it works

Carbohydrate loading, or carbo-loading, relies on the fact that muscle and liver cells can store glycogen until saturation.

Role

Forming maximal glycogen reserves to support prolonged exercise.

Examples

  • Gradually increasing pasta and whole-grain rice
  • Integrating oat porridge and oatmeal
  • Daily bananas and dried fruits
  • Natural juices and honey

Recommendations

Gradually increase your carbohydrates to 8-12g per kg of body weight 3 days before the event.

Key takeaway

Strategic carbohydrate loading can improve endurance performance by maximizing energy reserves.

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