A while back I was asked the question whether drinks like
Cytosport or Accelerade with protein added are of any benefit. The verdict: NO.
As athletes, protein helps us recover quicker by rebuilding and repairing
muscle. We also need more protein because of urine losses, some protein used as
energy (especially in endurance sports), and increased muscle mass. BUT, we do
not need it before or during exercise. Protein has a longer gastric emptying
rate so it can increase GI complaints during exercise. The protein may actually
take the place of what we need the most DURING exercise: fluid, carbohydrates,
and electrolytes. There is no evidence that additional protein in a sports
beverages aids in performance or recovery. Therefore, eat some protein after
working out, as little as 6g (the amount in one egg, a sports bar, or 1.5 Tbsp
peanut butter) within 45 minutes of working out (preferably within 15 minutes)
and stick to water or a sports drink during exercise.
References:
1. Benardot, D. Advanced Sports Nutrition. Champaign, IL:
Human Kinetics, 2006.
2. Clark, N. Nancy Clark’s
Sports Nutrition Guidebook 3rd Edition. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics,
2003.
Great post! I've been wondering about this with all the hype about protein. I actually tried a protein drink BEFORE going on a really long run. What a mistake. You're right about the GI problems. I wish I had read this before that run.
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