What is a potential advantage of a higher carbohydrate diet?

A higher carbohydrate diet can lead to increased fluid storage in the body due to the way carbohydrates are metabolized. When carbohydrates are consumed, they are stored in the muscles and liver as glycogen. Each gram of glycogen is stored with approximately 3 grams of water, so as glycogen stores increase, so does the associated water retention. This is particularly beneficial for athletes or individuals engaged in high-intensity training, as it can enhance endurance and overall performance by providing a readily available energy source.

The increased fluid storage also supports optimal hydration levels, which are crucial for various bodily functions and can improve recovery times post-exercise. It is important to recognize that while this might lead to weight gain in terms of water balance in the short term, the performance benefits can be substantial, making it a common strategy in sports nutrition, especially during the lead-up to events requiring endurance.