Essentials of Nutrition for Sports

Toxicity

Soy is not without potential problems. Studies suggest that soy

protein supplements may: •^

Stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells.

-^

Lead to memory problems.

Protein For Recovery?

Most sports drinks, fruit juices,

and sodas contain carbohydrate

as their almost exclusive source of calories.

Some coaches and nutritionists advocate adding protein to

recovery drinks, generally to

speed glycogen replacement.

Is the addition of protein to spor

ts drinks helpful in promoting

recovery? Should you use a sports drink with protein?

You will find details of the science underlying the answers to

these questions below. The details are somewhat technical. If you prefer, skip to the summary on

73

.

What We’re Talking About Protein as a Macronutrient

As discussed beginning on page

56

, protein, a basic structure

material of all cells, is also biologically active in enzymes, immunoglobulins, hormones, neurot

ransmitters, nutrient transport

and storage compounds, and cell membrane receptors.

Proteins may also be used by the body for energy or converted to

and stored as fat. When metaboli

zed in this way, protein is

expensive: It costs more than carbohydrate. Expensive protein supplements are usually a waste of money.

Some have suggested that endurance athletes consume protein up

to 1.5 grams per kilogram or 0.75 grams per pound of body weight.

Since endurance athletes consume more calories, if they eat a

balanced diet it is easy to meet and exceed these daily recommendations.

Nutrition for Sports, Essentials of 66