Which population typically requires a higher carbohydrate intake of 7-12 g/kg?

The correct answer highlights the carbohydrate needs of football players, who typically engage in high-intensity, intermittent bouts of activity requiring sustained energy over extended periods. Football players face the dual challenge of needing to replenish glycogen stores quickly due to the physically demanding nature of their sport and the long duration of the games and practices. A carbohydrate intake in the range of 7-12 g/kg is essential for these athletes to support their energy demands, optimize performance, enhance recovery, and reduce the risk of fatigue.

In contrast, endurance runners, while they also benefit from a high carbohydrate intake, typically fall at the lower end of that spectrum, often closer to 6-10 g/kg depending on the duration and intensity of their training. Weightlifters and bodybuilders might not require carbohydrate intakes as high as those of football players because their training focuses more on strength and muscle mass rather than sustained aerobic energy output. As a result, their carbohydrate needs may be lower, generally ranging from 3-8 g/kg depending on their specific training goals and the timing of their workouts.