What are carbs?
Carbohydrates are compounds in food that are THE main source of energy. Your body needs energy to move the best it possibly can. Carbs can be found in many foods. They can be found in:
– Grains: pasta, rice, oats, etc
– Vegetables: potatoes, corn, peas
– Dairy: milk, yogurt
– Fruit: berries, melon, oranges, etc
– Sweets: cake, candy, cookies, sugar
Why Do I Need to Know?
Carbohydrates are your body’s main energy source. They are highly important for exercise! Without them, you get tired, can’t complete your work outs, and the brain and nerve functions can only work right with carb as fuel. Carb also helps your muscles use protein for repair. There are two types of carb: simple and complex. One gives you energy quickly and the other fuels you longer. A combo of the two is important to get the benefits of both. Your body, the sport you play, and how long you exercise all dictate how much and what types you need! Eating before work outs and within 30 minutes after gives your body the best chance to succeed. Your body can perform at its max when you eat carb in the right amounts and at the right times.
