PROTEIN IN OUR FOOD

Twenty per cent of our body consists of proteins. Our protein balance is subject to constant ups and downs and restructuring processes, which also require a constant supply of protein. These processes take place in athletes to an increased extent. Training has a catabolic (decreasing) effect. The regeneration phase is used for rebuilding and improvement (anabolic - increasing phase). The basic constituents in these processes are amino acids.

Biological value
The biological value of a protein is a quality indicator. It indicates how much inherent protein can be built from the food protein ingested. Here the structure of the essential amino acids is decisive as they form the limiting factor since the body has only the quantity available which is contained in our food.

Replenishing value of proteins
Animal protein has a higher biological value than vegetable protein. This fact is due to the different quantities of essential amino acids contained. This different composition, however, has the advantage that the essential amino acids from animal and vegetable food complement each other so that an even higher biological value can be reached. There are favourable combinations, such as:

Why do athletes have a higher demand for protein?

• Endurance strains the muscles -> decreasing the muscular protein.
• Endurance consumes to a low extent (5 to 15 %), and primarily if there is insufficient intake of carbohydrates, and proteins for energy production -> particularly in the case of long-term exertion, amino acids are consumed due to a modification in the hormones.
• Muscle building as in body building requires a high-quality intake of protein.
• Athletes have a raised but no limitless demand for protein!