Roam Dictionary
Curious about exercise physiology and sports nutrition? Here you'll discover the meaning of various terms and concepts that can help you improve your performance, and recover faster.
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What are monosaccharides?
Monosaccharides are the most basic form of carbohydrates, consisting of single sugar molecules. They are the building blocks of more complex carbohydrates like disaccharides and polysaccharides. Examples of monosaccharides include glucose, fructose, and galactose. Glucose is often referred to as...
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What is hypoglycaemia?
Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels, typically defined as blood sugar levels below 70 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) or 3.9 millimoles per litre (mmol/L). Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and fatigue. Athletes with diabetes, particularly those on insulin, often face the challenge...
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What is maltodextrin and why is it used in sports products?
Maltodextrin is a complex carbohydrate made up of multiple glucose units linked together. Unlike simple sugars (for example, glucose and fructose), maltodextrin's complex structure allows for a more gradual release of energy, making it a popular ingredient in sports drinks...
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What Are Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)?
Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) refer to a specific group of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. These amino acids are termed "branched-chain" due to their unique chemical structure, which includes a side chain that branches off. BCAAs...
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What is Hyponatremia?
Hyponatremia is a medical condition characterised by abnormally low levels of sodium in the blood. Normal levels of sodium in the blood range from 135 to 145 mmol/L. Sodium is essential for maintaining proper fluid balance and nerve function in...
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What is the difference between Isotonic, Hypertonic and Hypotonic drinks?
The terms isotonic, hypertonic, and hypotonic refer to the osmolality of a solution, especially in the context of sports drinks or bodily fluids. Here's a quick distinction between them: Isotonic An isotonic solution has the same osmolality as the body's...