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Effect of exercise on protein requirements
1Applied Physiology Research Laboratory, School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, OH 44242.
Journal of Sports Sciences
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Regular exercise increases dietary protein needs, especially for athletes. Strength, speed, and endurance athletes should consume higher protein intakes than general recommendations, with no adverse effects observed.
Area of Science:
- Sports Nutrition
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Biochemistry
Background:
- Debate exists regarding exercise's impact on dietary protein requirements.
- Previous expert recommendations often overlooked increased needs for active individuals.
- Recent evidence suggests exercise elevates protein requirements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on exercise and protein needs.
- To provide updated protein intake guidelines for athletes.
- To address confounding factors in previous research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental evidence.
- Analysis of studies controlling for diet, energy intake, and exercise variables.
- Synthesis of data to establish protein intake ranges.
Main Results:
- Strength/speed athletes: 1.2-1.7 g protein/kg body weight/day.
- Endurance athletes: 1.2-1.4 g protein/kg body weight/day.
- These intakes represent 100-212% and 100-175% of current recommendations, respectively.
- Protein intake from 12-15% of total energy is generally sufficient.
- No adverse effects noted at these protein intake levels.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence supports increased protein intake for athletes.
- Specific recommendations are provided for strength, speed, and endurance athletes.
- Further research with robust methodologies is needed to refine guidelines.