What is the recommended percentage of daily calories that should come from carbohydrates for athletes?

For athletes, the recommended percentage of daily calories that should come from carbohydrates is between 45% and 65%. Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy for high-intensity activities such as training and competition. They are essential in replenishing glycogen stores, which are critical for endurance and performance.

Athletes demand a higher carbohydrate intake due to their increased energy needs. Consuming carbohydrates in this recommended range helps to optimize performance, supports recovery, and ensures that the body has enough readily available energy for prolonged activities. When athletes consume carbohydrates adequately, they can enhance their overall endurance, power output, and recovery processes.

In contrast, lower percentage ranges, such as 20-30% or 30-40%, do not typically provide sufficient energy for athletic performance and could lead to fatigue, diminished training capacity, and compromised recovery. Higher ranges, like 70-80%, might also not be practical as they could lead to excessive caloric intake or a lack of diversity in macronutrient sources, making it difficult to meet other nutritional needs. Thus, the range of 45-65% strikes an ideal balance for athletes to maintain optimal performance and health.