A comparative observational study of carbohydrate intake and continuous blood glucose levels in relation to performance in ultramarathon

Abstract

AbstractUltra-endurance events have gained global participation, whereas the critical factors of competition results remain to be well elucidated. This study used a nutritional approach to evaluate the association of competition results with carbohydrate intake and blood glucose control during a 100-mile ultramarathon. This observational study was conducted in the 2021 LAKE BIWA 100, which covered 100 miles (169 km) and 10,500 m elevation. The course was divided into 9 segments by aid station. According to the competition results, 22 participants (18 men and 4 women) were divided into higher finishers (n = 7), lower finishers (n = 9), and non-finishers (n = 6). The participants self-recorded their overall dietary intake throughout the race. Glucose levels were monitored every 15 min by a flash glucose monitoring system. Running speed in each segment was standardized to the average of the top five finishers for each gender. Among finishers, the carbohydrate intakes were significantly higher in the higher finishers than in the lower finishers during overall segments, especially in the first half of the race (p < 0.05). There was a significant positive correlation between running speed and carbohydrate intake in the lower finishers (rho = 0.700, p = 0.036). Two-way ANOVA analysis revealed that lowering glucose levels in each segment were more frequently observed in the lower finishers compared to the higher finishers (p = 0.012). Compared to the higher finishers, the lower finishers exhibited significantly greater fluctuations (⊿highest-lowest) in glucose levels (p < 0.001). The fluctuations in glucose levels were significantly and negatively correlated with the running speed of the finishers (rho =  − 0.612, p = 0.012). Faster runners consume high amounts of carbohydrates and maintain glucose levels during the 100-mile ultramarathon on the trail, especially at the beginning. Lowering and fluctuating glucose levels during the race are associated with lower running speed in endurance athletes.