Which diet component is least likely to support an athlete’s endurance?

Unsaturated fats are generally considered an important part of a balanced diet but are not the primary fuel source for endurance athletes during prolonged physical activity. While they provide energy, fats are metabolized at a slower rate compared to carbohydrates, which are the body’s preferred energy source during high-intensity and endurance activities. Carbohydrates provide readily accessible energy that can be quickly transformed into glucose for immediate use by muscles, thus supporting endurance.

Protein plays a role in muscle repair and recovery but does not serve as a significant energy source during prolonged endurance activities. Similarly, vitamins are essential for many bodily functions, including metabolism and energy production, but they do not directly contribute energy to the athlete during exercise. Therefore, while unsaturated fats have health benefits and can be beneficial for overall nutrition, they are the least likely component to effectively support an athlete's endurance directly compared to the other options.