Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients that provide the body with energy, along with protein and fat. While some people have misconceptions about carbs and their effects on health and performance, the truth is that carbohydrates are an essential nutrient that is necessary for optimal physical and cognitive performance.

This blog post is to every you away from all the scare-mongering and keto diets because at Status 8020 we’re all about eating to fuel performance!!

Physical Performance Benefits of Carbs

Carbs are the primary fuel source for high-intensity activities, such as running, cycling, and our favourite: strength training!! When you consume carbs, they are broken down into glucose, which is then used by your muscles as energy.

Here’s what you can expect carbs to assist with for physical performance:

Improved Endurance: Carbs provide a steady source of energy during endurance activities, which helps delay fatigue and improve endurance.

Increased Strength: Consuming carbs before a workout can help increase strength and power, which can lead to better performance during high-intensity exercises.

Faster Recovery: Carbs help replenish glycogen stores in the muscles, which can help speed up recovery after a workout and reduce muscle soreness.

Enhanced Performance: Consuming carbs during exercise can help improve performance by providing the body with the energy it needs to perform at its best.

BONUS: Cognitive Performance Benefits of Carbs

In addition to physical performance, carbs also play a vital role in cognitive performance! Your brain requires a constant supply of glucose to function correctly, and carbs are an excellent source of this essential nutrient.

When you eat carbs in the right quantities, you can expect to benefit from:

Improved Focus: Carbs provide the brain with a steady source of glucose, which helps improve focus, concentration, and attention span.

Enhanced Memory: Carbs help improve memory by providing the brain with the energy it needs to store and retrieve information.

Increased Mental Performance: Consuming carbs can help improve mental performance, including problem-solving, decision-making, and reaction time.

Better Mood: Carbs can help boost mood by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for regulating mood and emotions! As women, we really need this.

What does it all really mean?

To ensure you get the most out of your workouts and mental tasks, it’s essential to include carbs in your diet. However, it’s also important to choose healthy carbs, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, and avoid refined carbs, such as sugary snacks and processed foods. By doing so, you can reap the many benefits of carbs without cravings and slumps.

Calculating the correct amount of carbs to best fuel performance and mood is a fine art. Let us take the guesswork out of it for you, with our individualised meal plans that suit all your dietary needs and goals.