Nutrition for exercise and health: a brief review

Carbohydrates are the preferred fuel for physical activities of high intensity and brief duration. The importance of fat as an exercise energy source depends principally on the availability of carbohydrates. Fats are primarily used when the body performs low intensity muscular work, thus, sparing the store of carbohydrate. The fitter the individual the greater the carbohydrate sparing. Protein is one of the most essential and multi‐purpose nutrients. Animal sources such as meat, fish, eggs and/or dairy products are often referred to as ‘complete’ protein foods, whereas vegetablesources are described as being ‘incomplete’ as far as protein content is concerned. Vitamins contribute to chemical processes that regulate metabolism, energy release, and tissue repair. No vitamins can be synthesized by the human body. Minerals make up 4% of our body weight. They are involved in many biological functions including energy production, bone structure and oxygen carrying. Healthy and physically active people who eat well‐balanced meals consume enough of the essential micronutrients to maintain proper physiological functioning.

Author(s): Polikandrioti Maria

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