The calorie requirements of elite endurance athletes (such as swimmers or triathletes) can be extremely high. 5,000 to 7,000 calories per day is not uncommon. With a dietary fat intake of 25 – 40% of total calories, this can equal many grams of fat. 6,000 calories (at 30% fat) would equal 200 grams of fat. 35% fat would equal 233 grams of fat.
What is important for elite endurance athletes to realize as their competitive athletic careers come to an end?