The following information explores some of the misconceptions about athletes' protein needs. In spite of current knowledge about protein use in the body, there is still an improper belief that protein supplements will result in a more well-muscled and efficient body. Please read on for an update on protein needs for athletes.
Protein is made of small building units called amino acids.
Even though amino acids are critical for making these very important body protein elements, extra amounts of amino acids will not build muscle strength. If more protein is provided to the body than needed, the extra will be used as energy or stored as fat. Training and hard work on the muscles are responsible for building strength. Because of exercise, athletes need to reinforce their diets with extra protein. The usual recommendation for protein is to provide approximately 0.8 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight for a normal, healthy adult.