Tag: Working Out

Why Protein is so Vital to Athletes

By: Ford Wilder

To start off, many athletes are great within the mental and physical aspects of their sport,but they lack what most might say matters most: nutrition. Nutrition is very important for not just athletes but everyone in general because it fuels your body day in and day out.The main sources of nutrients you need to consume everyday are carbs,fats,proteins,water,minerals, and vitamins. These are all essential nutrients but ,in my opinion, protein is most important to athletes.I believe this because protein is vital for numerous aspects which I will dive into.

The first of reasons is because protein is essential for muscle building and recovery.In long and strenuous weight training sessions,practices,and games.Without protein, your body is unable to give your muscles the amino acids it needs to repair and rebuild. If you do not intake the amount of protein you need then your body will become sore, you will lose muscle mass, and your metabolism will be slowed.

Next off, protein is vital because it balances your diet by ensuring you stay full and satiated throughout workouts and the day in general. By keeping your protein intake at a stable level; it will allow you to limit cravings and keep your diet in check. If your diet is unstable; it will cause you to feel lethargic,sore, and weak.

How one should get their protein intake is a question many ask. This can be answered in pretty simple means. A person should aim for at least one gram of protein per pound you weigh ,so if someone weighs 165 pounds; they should aim for at least 165 grams of protein per day. Athletes should consume their protein through sources of chicken, beef, fish, dairy, protein bars, protein shakes,etc. Also, athletes should aim to get 30 grams of protein within an hour after their workout to ensure muscle recovery.

In all, protein is very essential in the everyday life of athletes and should be a vocal point in their diets. Without the correct amount of protein taken in everyday, a number of consequences will be followed.