Why do athletes eat carbs before games?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: They supply fuel that working muscles can use
They supply water even when eaten completely dry — Dry carbohydrate foods do not supply water simply because they contain carbohydrate. Sports drinks can provide both fluid and fuel, but these are different contributions.
They supply fuel that working muscles can use ✓ — Carbohydrates are digested into sugars that help fuel working muscles. Some glucose is stored as glycogen, so carbohydrate availability matters especially during prolonged or intense exercise.
They directly replace the proteins that build muscle — Carbohydrates do not replace protein as the material used to build muscle tissue. They supply energy that supports training, while muscle growth also requires protein and a training stimulus.