This should be the goal when you put together your nutritional program. For an athlete wishing to maximize his performance, these percentages are far below the recommended proportions. Simple carbohydrates such as chocolate, candy and soda are not long-term high energy foods and thus, are not recommended for athletes. Complex carbohydrates such as pasta, breads, grains, fruits and vegetables are among the foods with the desired supply of energy. Fats are present in many of our foods and serve as a cushioning and support system for the vital organs, thus protecting them from injury.
Fats also come in various forms.
Saturated fats such as you find in red meats and egg yolks tend to raise the cholesterol levels in the body and increase the risk of heart disease. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats such as those found in peanut oil, olive oil, and vegetable oil are the recommended fats for athletes and should be used when cooking. Protein, which can be found in red meat, turkey, tuna, and fish is present in every cell in the body. Muscles are primarily composed of protein and when they are injured, it is protein which helps them to heal. Protein is also needed to nourish the skin, fingernails, bones and liver.