Do athletes need protein supplements?
A healthy, balanced diet will generally provide all the energy, protein and other nutrients we need. Protein supplements are usually unnecessary for athletes.
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A healthy, balanced diet will generally provide all the energy and nutrients we need. Supplements are usually needed only if a deficiency is identified.
Eating protein-rich foods such as dairy products, meat, fish, eggs and soy should be sufficient to fulfil an athlete’s high protein needs. The intake of supplemental protein when the diet is already sufficient in protein will probably pose no additional benefit for the athlete. There is also little evidence that supplementing with individual amino acids is beneficial when athletes are already consuming an adequate diet. If athletes find it difficult to consume protein-rich food sources at the ideal time, a protein supplement may add some convenience to their training plan. However, athletes should be aware that some protein supplements may contain additional ingredients or impurities.
