Essays on Fat Metabolism

Harvey requires enough energy to perform. Consequently, he must consume enough calories to meet all his energy needs. The actual requirement for calorie intake depends on one’s level of fitness and bodyweight. In addition, the intensity, frequency, and duration of physical activity also greatly influence one’s actual energy requirement.

Carbohydrates

Given that Harvey’s daily workouts involve high-intensity activities, his calorie intake should comprise of between55 to 70 percent carbohydrates. In this case, 3 grams per pound of body weight would be appropriate. Based on this recommendation, Harvey should consume approximately 480 grams of carbohydrates per day in ...

History

Ergogenic aids are dated back to around 100 years ago. Warriors and athletes during the early period used food items like the lion’s heart and the deer liver to effect their speed, strength and bravery during games, battles and even hunting. Over the years Ergogenic aids have been widely used especially by amateur and professional athletes. Gaining a competitive advantage over one’s competitors is a known phenomenon in the sports world. Most athletes have been dropped out of important races due to ergogenic aids use in order to enhance their performance. Ergogenic aids are substances or treatments that ...

Introduction

Caffeine is an ingredient in a variety of beverages including coffee, tea, chocolate drinks, cola drinks. Caffeine is also included in some prescription medications (McKinley Health 2004). Caffeine has long been regarded as an ergogenic aid as it has been shown to increase muscle contractibility, aerobic endurance and enhancement of fat metabolism. (McKinley Health 2004). Caffeine acts as a mild stimulant to the central nervous system and the effects of caffeine can be modulated by the subject’s age and body mass (McKinley Health 2004). Caffeine has been shown to improve performance, including endurance, when taken prior to exercise (Ryu et ...