Dubai, United Arab Emirates (CNN) — Do you feel any disturbances in the digestive system, lately? This may be because you eat more carbohydrates during exercise.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority stated, through its official account on the “Twitter” platform, that carbohydrates generally contribute to providing the body with energy, but the needs of the body must be taken into account according to the type of exercise for each person.

It is necessary to consume an ample amount of water when using complementary foods for athletes, which contain a high percentage of protein and carbohydrates.

In fact, it is preferable to take natural sources of nutritional supplements to cover the daily needs of the body.

What are the most prominent sources of natural carbohydrates, according to the Saudi Food and Drug Authority?

• starches
• cereal
• legumes
• peas;
• lentils
• Fruit and vegetables

And the Saudi Ministry of Health stated, on its official website, that the main role of carbohydrates in physical activity is to provide energy, at a rate ranging between 60% and 70% of daily calories, which is considered a major fuel for the brain and muscles during exercise.

The body converts the sugars and starches in carbohydrates into energy (glucose), or stores them in liver and muscle tissues (in the form of glycogen), which gives the body stamina for high-intensity, short-term activities.

And if the body runs out of carbohydrate stores during exercise, it will burn fats and proteins for energy, which leads to a decrease in performance.