The Interaction of Proteins and Carbohydrates

Whether at rest or during exercise, the body relies on protein, fat, and carbohydrates to function at its best. These three components must interact in various ways to provide the body with energy and to ensure proper maintenance and repair of tissue. When the body is at rest, it takes about 70 percent of its energy needs from fats and the remaining 30 percent from carbohydrates. During activity, the body shifts to carbohydrates as its main energy source. In fact, carbohydrates almost exclusively fuel exercise done at a high intensity.






The body turns to protein as its energy source when workouts last longer than 90 minutes.