We all now know that adequate protein consumption is vital for your health, in this article from Endura we explore why adequate protein consumption is especially important for Triathletes, and how best to consume the protein your body needs.
“Your connective tissue, cell membranes and muscle cells need proteins to function. As endurance athletes, you especially need sufficient protein for muscle growth and repair. Your needs are not only higher than the average couch potato; your needs are comparable to that of a body builder. While body builders are aiming to build muscle, you need to rapidly reverse the natural breakdown of muscle that occurs following a workout. This will help you recover faster and train at greater intensity in your next training session.
How Protein Powers your Active Body
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. There are two types of amino acids; non-essential and essential. Non-essential amino acids are usually synthesised by your body from the foods you eat each day. The essential amino acids are critical for your health and fitness and must be in the food you eat, and/or in the supplements you take, as your body can’t produce them. Amino acids are required for a myriad of vital key metabolic processes, such as:
- Forming hormones and enzymes
- Contributing to the body’s acid-base balance
- Immune function
- Brain and nervous system health
- Providing energy
Build and Retain Muscle with Branched Chain Amino Acids
As endurance athletes, you need protein to maintain and repair existing muscle mass, minimise exercise induced muscle breakdown, and prevent the signs and symptoms of protein deficiency. BCAA’s are different from other amino acids that make up protein, as they provide powerful fuel for building and repairing your muscle. Animal proteins, such as lean meat and fish, are the richest source of the BCAA’s – valine, leucine and isoleucine. If choosing a protein powder to mix as a recovery drink, whey protein isolate contains all of the essential amino acids and a healthy dose of BCAA’s.