Final answer:
Carbohydrates consumed before aerobic exercise help reduce protein breakdown by providing glucose for ATP production, thereby sparing proteins for growth and repair. This is referred to as the protein sparing action of carbohydrates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Consuming carbohydrates prior to aerobic exercise reduces catabolism of proteins. This is because carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then used to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell, necessary for many metabolic processes. When ample carbohydrates are available, they provide the required energy, sparing the proteins from being used for energy metabolism. This is known as the protein sparing action of carbohydrates, making protein available for anabolic or constructive purposes.
Proteins, once spared, can support cellular repair and growth, while the body utilizes carbohydrates and fats for fuel during aerobic exercises. Consuming carbohydrates prior to aerobic exercise reduces catabolism of proteins. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which provides energy as ATP through metabolic pathways. ATP is required for proper cellular function.