2025 Vade Mecum of Nutrients, Bioactive Compounds and other Ergogenic Substances in Sport and Health. Chapter III. Carbohydrates or Glucides. Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, Oligosaccharides, and Starch and Non-starch Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates (CHO), also known as carbs or saccharides, are biomolecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They constitute the most efficient and readily available source of energy for the body, especially during moderate- to highintensity physical exercise. An adequate intake of carbohydrates is important to meet energy expenditure, ensure that amino acids from the diet are used for protein synthesis and not metabolized for energy, maintain optimal blood glucose levels, and replenish muscle glycogen lost during physical activity to prevent fatigue. This chapter presents a summary of carbohydrates, including their definition and functions, effects, Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) or dietary reference value, and Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) if established, dosage, level of evidence, side effects, interactions, and contraindications. If available, the nutritional and health claim, conditions of use for the claim, restrictions or supplementary warnings, and its UR (Uniform Resource Locator).