Fat Intake And Exercise Flashcards
The role of fat in exercise
Primary fuel source during low to moderate intensity exercise
Provides long-lasting energy (especially endurance)
Supports hormone production, cell membrane health, and vitamin absorption (ADEK)
Fat stored are more energy dense
Dietary fat - saturated (description and sources)
Limit intake, can raise LDL cholesterol
Fatty means, butter, cheese, palm oil
Dietary fat - unsaturated fat (description and source)
Heart healthy, supports recovery
Avocado, olive oil, nuts, seeds
Dietary fat - monounsaturated (description and sources)
Anti-inflammatory
Olive oil, almonds, peanuts
Dietary fat - polyunsaturated (description and source)
Includes omega 3 and omega 6
Walnuts, flaxseeds, fatty fish
Dietary fat - trans fats (description and sources)
Avoid completely
Processed snacks, fried foods
Fat as an energy source
Used primarily during:
Rest and light activity
Prolonged, moderate intensity exercise
Fat oxidation increases as glycogen decreases
Not effective for short, high intensity efforts
Fat adaptation for low-carb, high-fat diets
Endurance athletes sometimes train on low carb to boost fat use
Can increase fat metabolism, must may reduce high intensity performance
Not ideal for sports requiring bursts of speed or power
Daily fat intake guidance (for athletes aswell)
General - 20-30% of total daily calories form fat
Athletes - should not go below 15-20% fat intake to avoid hormone imbalance and poor recovery
Timing of fat intake pre and post exercise
Pre - limit high fat meals right before training, they digest slowly and may cause discomfort
Post - small amounts of fat are okay and wont interfere with muscle recovery when consumed with carbs and protein
Fat importance for athletes
Preserves muscle glycogen during endurance
Supports immune function and reduces inflammation
Maintains hormonal health, especially in long term training
Healthy fat sources for athletes
Avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds
Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel
Nut butters, chia seeds, dark chocolate