Dr. Tacconi of Gensan advises to moderate intake when approaching physical activity: here’s what to know
PISA – The role and importance of carbohydrates for those who practice sport is now well known. But there are some important factors to take into consideration, especially on the quantities and timing of intake close to physical effort. To clarify the issue, Edoardo Tacconi thought about it – Doctor in Motor Sciences, nutritionist biologist and basic kinesiologist, as well as consultant and popularizer for Gensan -.
Starting from a non-obvious consideration: “carbohydrates are essential for any physical activity, however it is important to keep in mind the timing of intake, reminding us that the closer we get to the start of training, the more the form must be easily digestible, as in the case of fruit or smoothies” says Tacconi.
This is why it is recommended to get used to regular meals, able to reconcile the needs of our body in consideration of the physical effort that will be made. “A meal with carbohydrates from starches at least 2-3 hours before physical activity will guarantee a good quantity of glycogen in the muscles for the start of the activity” – clarifies Doctor Tacconi -. When we talk about habits, we must keep in mind that a well-defined competitive activity routine must also be combined with food habits: “an adequate weekly habit, without particular competitive goals, should include at least 2-3 workouts with loads and 2- 3 aerobic fitness workouts. This is the right balance” – underlines the expert -.
There are always supplements to support sportsmen, but they should not be considered meal replacements at all. In the case of multiple events such as CrossFit or mixed sports such as tennis, padel, combat and team sports, Carbogel represents the ideal solution, even more so for those who practice endurance sports such as cycling, swimming or triathlon. “It is a perfect source of carbohydrates, especially for those sports that require intense and lasting performance” – points out Tacconi -. “The ideal use is between warm-up and the event itself, or during the effort if you need more energy. It is important to bear in mind that it does not replace similar sources of carbohydrates such as fruit and starches in general, which however cannot be consumed during intense efforts for obvious digestive reasons”.
Carbogel is an energizing energy gel made up of several carbohydrates (Isomaltulose, Maltodextrin, Glucose, Fructose) which exploit different pathways to promote the production of energy when the intensity of the effort is high. In addition, it contains guarana and caffeine, like that found in an espresso, but which takes much less time to exert its effects on concentration and alertness.
On the topic of food supplements and their use, Dr. Tacconi dwells on the approach of our country and on the need to always check the labels, addressing qualified companies in the production and marketing: “Without a doubt, the legislation in Italy is stricter in misleading advertising, which is often common on the labels of some foreign products. We still admit that some products are hidden by the so-called “proprietary blends, which do not allow the user to understand in what doses certain active ingredients are present in the product and this is unacceptable. It is important to familiarize yourself with companies that have certified expertise”.
