Carbohydrates are an important source of energy during physical exercise. Carbohydrates provide a higher energy yield than the oxidation of fatty acids and a higher energy flux per liter of oxygen. However, carbohydrate storage capacity in the liver and muscles is limited.  Therefore, athletes who engage in long-term endurance or intermittent high-intensity exercise should include a high percentage of carbohydrates in their daily diet. Individual carbohydrate intake depends on body weight and the degree of physical activity. The energy expended during physical exercise causes a gradual depletion of carbohydrate stores. The degree of depletion of carbohydrate stores depends on the duration and intensity of the exercise. Therefore, performance can be enhanced by consuming adequate carbohydrates during exercise, especially during prolonged, intense exercise. Furthermore, after prolonged, intense physical activity, ingesting immediate carbohydrates post-exercise can help replenish carbohydrate stores more quickly.