Why are carbohydrates important in an athlete’s diet and give two different forms of carbohydrates and the difference between them?

Carbohydrates are an important part of an athlete’s diet because these foods provide instant energy which is required before a workout. Carbohydrates provide the body fuel that makes the body’s engine run efficiently, therefore it is essential that athletes consume these foods before, during and after exercise. The amount of carbohydrates you consume depends on the activity you are taking part in and how much energy is required for that particular workout.

The two different forms of carbohydrates can be seen as simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. The difference is that simple carbohydrates digest quickly and give instant energy, whereas complex carbohydrates take longer to digest and provide a more long lasting energy.