ARS | Publication request: Recommended proportions of carbohydrates to fats to proteins in diets

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book/Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: November 1, 2006
Publication Date: March 31, 2007
Publisher's URL: http://www.crcpress.com
Citation: Lukaski, H.C. 2007. Recommended proportions of carbohydrates to fats to proteins in diets. In: Driskell, J.A., editor. Sports Nutrition: Fats and Proteins. Florida, Boca Raton: CRC Press. Lord and Francis Group. p. 357-372.

Technical Abstract: Concern persists among physically active people regarding practical guidelines for amounts of dietary carbohydrate, protein and fat to facilitate recovery between training sessions and to promote optimal performance. This review summarizes current knowledge of the metabolic and physiological effects of graded macronutrient intakes during controlled laboratory and field tests of a variety of physical activities. It critically examines the metabolic and functional differences associated with current guidelines for carbohydrate, fat and protein intakes in studies using running, cycling and resistance exercise. Implementation of the current dietary guidelines for macronutrients, the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Ranges (AMDR), poses some problems. Calculations reveal that the AMDR does not meet carbohydrate needs for glycogen repletion after intense endurance training. Also, the highest level of protein intake is excessive for individuals with large energy needs. In contract, the dietary fat recommendation is consistent with health promotion. Practical concerns about estimating daily intake of carbohydrate and protein based on percent of energy intake hamper the implementation of the AMDR. Athletes and active people find it more convenient to estimate carbohydrate and protein intakes on the basis of body weight (g/kg) than as a percent of daily energy intake. This information will be useful to dietitians and other health professionals who work with physically active individuals.