The source provides an extensive overview of the role of carbohydrates in the human body, particularly focusing on their function as the main energy source for athletes. It explains that carbs are broken down into sugars and are categorised as either simple or complex, with varying rates of digestion and different applications for fuelling exercise. The text addresses the daily requirement for carbohydrates, suggesting an intake of around 55-60% of total calories, adjusted for an individual's activity level and training intensity. Furthermore, the document offers specific recommendations for carbohydrate consumption before, during, and after exercise to optimise performance and recovery, while also briefly discussing controversia ...