IMBALANCE IN CARBOHYDRATE INTAKE BY COMBAT SPORTS ATHLETES

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the impact of carbohydrate intake imbalance on athletic performance and health in combat sport athletes, considering the different stages of the competitive cycle. An integrative literature review was conducted using national and international scientific databases, covering publications from 2010 to 2025. The selected studies showed that severe carbohydrate restriction, commonly adopted as a weight-cutting strategy, reduces muscle and liver glycogen stores, compromising anaerobic and aerobic pathways essential for high-intensity intermittent efforts. Intakes below 3 g/kg/day are associated with decreased performance, increased fatigue, immune and hormonal impairment, and higher injury risk. Psychological effects such as irritability, mental fatigue, and reduced concentration were also reported. Conversely, excessive and unstructured carbohydrate consumption during the post-competition period promotes the rebound effect, leading to weight gain and relative insulin resistance. It is concluded that nutritional periodization and professional supervision are essential to balance weight management, physical performance, and psychological well-being, ensuring long-term athletic sustainability in combat sports.