ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

What is the recommended behavior for clients with an active lifestyle regarding carbohydrate intake?

1. Reduce carbohydrate intake significantly

2. Balance carbohydrate intake evenly throughout the day

3. Consume high amounts of refined carbohydrates post-exercise

4. Avoid carbohydrates entirely during workouts

The correct answer is: Balance carbohydrate intake evenly throughout the day

For clients with an active lifestyle, balancing carbohydrate intake evenly throughout the day is essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting overall performance. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for exercise and physical activity, and a steady supply helps sustain this energy, allowing clients to perform optimally during workouts and daily activities. By distributing carbohydrate intake throughout the day, clients can avoid spikes and crashes in energy, which can lead to fatigue and decreased performance. This approach also supports recovery, as carbohydrates play a critical role in replenishing glycogen stores that are depleted during exercise. A consistent intake ensures the body has the necessary fuel readily available for physical demands. Other options may not support the needs of an active individual effectively. For instance, significantly reducing carbohydrate intake could hinder performance and recovery, while consuming high amounts of refined carbohydrates post-exercise may lead to unhealthy dietary habits. Avoiding carbohydrates entirely during workouts would also leave clients without the required energy to sustain their activity levels, which could affect both performance and enjoyment of their exercise routines. Hence, the best practice for active individuals is to maintain a balanced and consistent carbohydrate intake throughout the day.