EFFECTS OF EXERCISE ON DIETARY-PROTEIN REQUIREMENTS

This paper reviews the factors (exercise intensity, carbohydrate avail ability, exercise type, energy balance, gender, exercise training, age , and timing of nutrient intake or subsequent exercise sessions) thoug ht to influence protein need. Although there remains some debate, rece nt evidence suggests that dietary protein need increases with rigorous physical exercise. Those involved in strength training might need to consume as much as 1.6 to 1.7 g protein . kg(-1) . day(-1) (approximat ely twice the current RDA) while those undergoing endurance training m ight need about 1.2 to 1.4 g . kg(-1) . day(-1) (approximately 1.5 tim es the current RDA). Future longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these recommendations and assess whether these protein intakes can en hance exercise performance. Despite the frequently expressed concern a bout adverse effects of high protein intake, there is no evidence that protein intakes in the range suggested will have adverse effects in h ealthy individuals.