Final answer:
In a pregame meal, athletes should include large amounts of complex carbohydrates, such as pasta, bread, and potatoes to provide sustained energy. Simple sugars consumed closer to the event provide a quick energy boost. This approach ensures a steady supply of energy during long-lasting athletic activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Athletes should include large amounts of complex carbohydrates in a pregame meal. Foods high in carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, and potatoes are crucial for providing the necessary energy to allow athletes to perform at high levels. Carbohydrates are easily digested and are an important fuel source for the brain and muscles during exercise.
Why do coaches advise athletes to eat carb-rich foods like pasta the night before, and simpler sugars a few hours before the event? The answer lies in how our bodies process these nutrients. Carbohydrates from sources like pasta are long-chain molecules that take longer to break down, providing a sustained energy release that is ideal for endurance. Simple sugars, on the other hand, are broken down quickly and can provide a rapid burst of energy, which is why they are recommended shortly before the competition.
The strategy of 'carb-loading' before an event helps to maximize glycogen stores in muscles, providing the athlete with a readily available energy source to improve endurance and performance.