High Protein

Protein is required by the body for muscle growth, to fight infection, assist in the process of wound healing and is also the main component of muscles, organs and glands. It accounts for approximately 15% of the total mass of an individual. Therefore consuming the correct amount of protein is essential to the health of an individual, especially a player.

High protein diets are usually employed by those individuals looking to add bulk and muscle. The belief is that by consuming more protein than usual the body can use the additional amount to repair and build muscles damaged during a rigorous weights session.

When undertaking such a diet the additional protein is either gained from supplements (bars or drinks high in protein) or from increased consumption of animal based proteins. The protein gained from supplements is usually healthier than those consumed from animal proteins. This is because they are usually low in carbohydrates and low in saturated fat (bad fat), while some animal proteins contain a large amount of saturated fat. This actually makes them unhealthier in the long run, if large amounts are consumed. However the supplements may be packed with flavourings so care should be taken when choosing the correct supplement.

A high protein diet can also lead to the body being starved of essential vitamins and minerals, due to a reduction in the consumption of carbohydrates and fat. Therefore prolonged implementation can lead to health risks. If a player wishes to bulk up then an increased protein diet may lead to that goal. However the increase of protein should not lead to a decrease in the amount of carbohydrates consumed. If the intake of carbohydrates is lowered, then the onset of fatigue may occur quicker as the body has nowhere to draw its energy from (depending on intensity of the activity). Therefore an increase in protein can be encouraged as long as it does not result in a reduction in carbohydrates intake.