Protein and the Athlete
By Emily Shields Werner, MS, RD, LDN
Protein! It can be a complicated topic with so many questions. Am I getting enough protein? What foods are good sources of protein? Can I be a vegetarian or vegan athlete and still meet my protein needs? What should my timing of protein intake be? The list goes on and on. Luckily, I am here to help! By reading this blog you will have the tools you require to optimize your intake of protein for greater athletic success.
Protein Basics
Protein is made up of 20 amino acids, 9 of which are essential amino acids. Our bodies cannot make these essential amino acids and we must get them from food. Among other functions, our bodies use protein to build and repair muscle. All animal proteins (meat, dairy, eggs) contain all of the essential amino acids. A few plant proteins do as well, such as quinoa, soy and buckwheat. Legumes, grain, nuts and seeds are generally low...