Abstract
Fifty-one female ultra-endurance triathletes training for an iron distance triathlon, 3.8-km swim, 180-km cycle, and 42.2-km run were studied regarding carbohydrate intake during their training. Triathletes were queried on their triathlon history, training and dietary habits, height/weight measurements, and recent menstrual history. Dietary intake was assessed by 24-hour recall based on the categories of the Food Guide Pyramid and on the serving sizes of the diabetic exchange list. All participants were below the recommended intake for endurance athletes in training for total carbohydrate intake: 190-g mean intake (mean 3.15 g/kg of body weight, SD = 1.2) versus 360 to 600 g (6-10 g/kg of body weight) recommended.