Discuss the rationale behind a higher requirement of protein intake by athletes

Answer 1

Although considerable amounts of protein are needed to maintain, build, and repair muscle, the debate continues as to whether expressly active people (and even competitive athletes) need additional protein. In 2005, the Institute of Medicine concluded that the estimated protein requirement for a healthy adult (0.8 grams of protein per kg per day) is equally adequate for a physically active individual. However, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American College of Sports Medicine believe that athletes may require as much as 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kg of body weight per day. Although requirements can fluctuate depending on the amount and rigor of training, athletes should be able to satisfy targeted protein intake goals with a varied diet that includes moderate amounts of high-quality protein sources such as dairy, meat, and eggs. Although protein supplementation is occasionally used to optimize recovery, experts recommend that athletes focus on dietary strategies to satisfy protein requirements. Athletes that adhere to strict vegetarian diets must ensure that protein requirements are met by consuming high intakes of complementary protein courses such as soy products, nuts, and whole grains. Depending on the extent of dietary restrictions. This can pose practical challenges for athletes in terms of both protein quantity and quality.