Endurance Sports and Its Related Nutritional Requirements

Abstract

Endurance events have seen substantial growth in the new millennium, becoming popular activities worldwide. A comprehensive review was conducted based on a PubMed/Medline search focusing on endurance, athletes, nutrition, and performance. This review synthesizes the current evidence on macronutrients, hydration, and supplements for endurance athletes. Recommendations for carbohydrate intake and hydration have remained relatively consistent over the years. In contrast, protein and fat intake has traditionally been underemphasized for endurance athletes. While numerous supplements are available, only a few, such as nitrates, antioxidants, caffeine, and probiotics, show potential benefits for endurance activities and are discussed in this review. This chapter highlights the primary recommendations for macronutrients, hydration, and supplements for endurance athletes. It aims to help clinicians address misconceptions in sports nutrition research and provide informed counseling to endurance athletes.