How can diet affect aerobic exercise performance?

Aerobic exercise performance is enhanced by strategies that maintain high carbohydrate availability. Because glycogen depletion is associated with fatigue and reduced work rates, sports nutrition guidelines recommend a higher-carbohydrate diet. However, the number of carbohydrates consumed should depend on the volume and intensity of exercise.^[1][2] For light to moderate exercise performed for up to 60 minutes per day, 3–7 grams of carbohydrate per kilogram of body weight per day (g/kg/d) is recommended, while individuals performing higher-intensity exercise for longer durations (1 to 5 hours per day) should consume 6–12 g/kg/d.^[3] It’s also important to ensure an adequate intake of energy, carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.