What is the purpose of carbohydrate loading in athletes?

The purpose of carbohydrate loading in athletes is to increase glycogen stores before an event. Glycogen is the stored form of carbohydrates in the muscles and liver, serving as a vital energy source during prolonged and intense exercise. By consuming a higher amount of carbohydrates in the days leading up to a competition, athletes can maximize their glycogen reserves, which can benefit endurance performance.

This strategy is particularly effective for events that last longer than 90 minutes, as having sufficient glycogen can delay fatigue and enhance overall athletic performance. Increased glycogen levels also allow athletes to maintain a higher intensity for a longer period, making carbohydrate loading an essential practice for endurance athletes, such as marathon runners and triathletes. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the primary goal of carbohydrate loading, which is focused specifically on enhancing glycogen availability for optimal performance.