protein

Protein plays an important role in an athlete’s diet as the nutrient helps repair and strengthen muscle tissue.

About 10-15% of an athlete’s total calories should come from protein, with the remaining calories coming from carbohydrates and fat. This means that protein can go towards building and maintaining lean body mass. Most athletes can get the recommended amount of protein through diet alone without the use of supplement. Research shows that timing of protein intake plays a role in muscle growth. Eating high quality protein such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy or soy, within two hours after exercise, either by itself or with a carbohydrate, enhances muscle repair and growth.