Rachel has been on a high protein diet but feels exhausted. What nutrient does she need?

Rachel has been on a high protein diet but feels exhausted. What nutrient does she need?

• A. Carbohydrates
• B. Fats
• C. Vitamins
• D. Minerals

Answer: (A)

Carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source, providing glucose for quick and sustained energy and helping spare protein from being burned for fuel. On a high-protein diet, inadequate carbohydrate intake can deplete glycogen stores, leaving you feeling fatigued because your muscles and brain don’t have ready energy. Replacing some calories with carbohydrates restores readily available energy and supports overall energy levels. Fats also provide energy but take longer to mobilize, while vitamins and minerals support metabolism but don’t supply calories themselves.

Carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source, providing glucose for quick and sustained energy and helping spare protein from being burned for fuel. On a high-protein diet, inadequate carbohydrate intake can deplete glycogen stores, leaving you feeling fatigued because your muscles and brain don’t have ready energy. Replacing some calories with carbohydrates restores readily available energy and supports overall energy levels. Fats also provide energy but take longer to mobilize, while vitamins and minerals support metabolism but don’t supply calories themselves.