Proteins Proteins are a secondary component to an athlete's diet. It was once thought that proteins were a source of fuel for energy, but it is now known that proteins contribute very little to energy needs. The energy requirements may increase with injury or in the elderly population, but other than these, there should be no added supplementation of protein to the diet. Acid-Base balance 6. Essential amino acids must be supplemented in the diet 2.
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
Complete contain all essential amino acids eggs, milk, cheese 2. Incomplete lacks one or more of the essential amino acids grains and vegetables 3. Maybe some, but not much more than the diet can provide Two factors that we can look at to determine the answer to this question are protein as an energy source and the amount of protein lost from the body during exercise. We now know that protein is not a significant source of energy during exericse. Protein may be used if the individual is lacking CHO and fats, but this is pretty uncommon.