Kaitlyn F. is a 2I-year-old woman who has taken up running in an effort to lose weight and improve her endurance. She runs 3 to 4 days a week for approximately 45 minutes to an hour. At the store, she finds a sports “energy gel” labeled as a “natural performance enhancer.” Each 1.1-ounce package provides 100 kcalories, 40 milligrams sodium, 30 milligrams potassium, and 25 grams total carbohydrates. The directions read: “For best results, consume one package 15 minutes before activity, one to two packages per hour during activity and one package immediately after activity to aid in recovery. Always follow consumption with water.” Kaitlyn is trying to determine whether she needs this product for her training regimen. I. Based on information you know, what main ingredient in this product would Kaitlyn expect to be a “natural performance enhancer”? Explain.
Considering her current level of activity, what is the most important nutrient that Kaitlyn needs to consume before her workout? 3. How might Kaitlyn decide whether she needs this type of product during her workouts? 4. What ingredient in this product might “aid in recovery” after physical activity? 5. What effect might this product have on Kaitlyn’s weight-loss efforts if she uses it as directed?
Given the length of her workouts, explain how Kaitlyn can easily replenish glucose and electrolytes after exercising without using a special product.