This promotes carbohydrate storage in the muscles. Not all experts endorse or support this practice. Recent studies in runners, cyclists and swimmers suggest that an extremely high intake of carbohydrate in the last few days prior to an event may not actually improve performance. Also, carbohydrate loading has some risks. The athlete may suffer from fatigue, irritability and nausea during the low-carbohydrate phase.
Weight gain can also occur due to water retention.
A registered dietitian or physician should supervise an athlete who decides to carbohydrate load.