Benefits of Animal Protein and Fats for Endurance Sports
It all begins with an idea.
In long distance sports, such as marathons, triathlons and cycling, proper nutrition is essential to optimize performance and recovery. Animal protein and fats play crucial roles in the diet of athletes, providing not only energy, but also the nutrients necessary for muscle repair and growth. This article will explore in depth the benefits of animal protein and fats in long distance sport, addressing their sources, functions and intake recommendations.
Muscle Repair and Building
Animal protein is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and building. During long-distance exercise, muscles experience micro-tears that must be repaired to improve strength and endurance. Animal protein, rich in essential amino acids such as leucine, isoleucine and valine, is especially effective in stimulating muscle protein synthesis and accelerating recovery.
Muscle Protein Synthesis
Muscle protein synthesis (MPS) is the process by which the body creates new muscle proteins for repair and growth. Animal protein, being rich in essential amino acids and highly bioavailable, is particularly effective in maximizing SPM. This is crucial for long-distance athletes, who need fast and effective recovery to maintain a high level of performance.
Sustained Energy
Although carbohydrates are the primary source of energy during high-intensity exercise, protein can also play an important role, especially in long-duration exercise. In situations where glycogen stores are depleted, the body can use amino acids from animal proteins to produce glucose through gluconeogenesis, providing an additional energy source and delaying fatigue.
Immune Function
Prolonged, intense exercise can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infection and disease. Animal protein contains essential amino acids that are vital for the production of antibodies and other immune molecules. Adequate intake of animal protein can help maintain immune function, allowing long-distance athletes to stay healthy and continue their training regimen.
Glutamine and the Immune System
Glutamine, an amino acid abundant in animal proteins, plays a crucial role in immune function. During prolonged exercise, glutamine levels can decrease, compromising the immune system. Consuming sufficient animal protein ensures an adequate amount of glutamine, supporting immune health and recovery.
Animal Protein Sources
Animal-based proteins are complete and high quality, providing all essential amino acids in optimal proportions. Some optimal sources for long distance athletes include:
Lean Meat: Chicken, turkey and lean beef are high in protein and low in saturated fat.
Fish: Salmon, tuna and other fish are excellent sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Eggs: Eggs are a complete source of protein and contain important nutrients such as choline.
Dairy: cheese provide high quality protein and calcium.
Benefits of Fats for Long Distance Running
Energy Source
Fats are a dense, long-lasting source of energy, providing approximately 9 calories per gram, compared to the 4 calories per gram provided by carbohydrates and protein. During long distance events, the body uses both carbohydrates and fats for energy production. As exercise is prolonged, glycogen stores are depleted and the body increasingly turns to fats as a source of energy, which is crucial for maintaining performance.
Energy Reserve
Fats stored in the body represent a significant reserve of energy that can be used during prolonged exercise. This is particularly important in endurance sports, where maintaining a constant and sustained source of energy is vital for performance. In addition, endurance training increases the body's ability to utilize fats as an energy source, improving energy efficiency.
Role of Fats in Nutrient Absorption
Fats also play a crucial role in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E and K. These vitamins are essential for various body functions, including bone health, immune function and antioxidant protection. Adequate fat intake ensures that long-distance athletes can absorb and utilize these vitamins effectively.
Protection and Insulation
Fats provide protection and insulation to the body's vital organs, helping to maintain body temperature and protecting against physical damage. This function is especially important for athletes who train and compete in extreme weather conditions.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are vital for health and performance. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish such as salmon and sardines, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise. In addition, omega-6 fatty acids, found in vegetable oils and nuts, are important for brain function and cell growth.
Sources of Healthy Fats
To maximize the benefits of fats in the diet of long-distance athletes, it is important to focus on sources of healthy fats, such as:
Fatty Fish: Salmon, sardines and tuna are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Nuts and Seeds: Walnuts, almonds, chia and flax seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats and protein.
Vegetable Oils: Olive oil, canola oil and avocado oil are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
Avocado: Avocado is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, fiber and vitamins.
Protein and Fat Intake Recommendations
Daily Protein Requirements
Protein requirements vary according to training intensity and duration, as well as individual factors such as body weight and gender. For long-distance athletes, the general recommendations are:
Sedentary adults: 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
Moderate endurance athletes: 1.2-1.4 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
Heavy endurance athletes: 1.4-1.7 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
Daily Fat Requirements
Fats should constitute approximately 20-35% of total caloric intake. For long-distance athletes, it is important to ensure that sufficient fats are consumed to meet energy demands without compromising health:
Total fats: 0.8-1.2 grams of fat per kilogram of body weight per day.
Essential fatty acids: Include rich sources of omega-3 and omega-6 in the daily diet.
Protein and Fat Intake Distribution
Distributing protein and fat intake evenly throughout the day can improve protein synthesis, sustained energy and muscle recovery. It is recommended to consume a source of protein and fat at each meal and snack, especially after exercise. Some tips include:
Breakfast: add eggs, avocado and Greek yogurt.
Lunch : Include a serving of lean meat, fish or a combination of legumes and whole grains, accompanied by a source of healthy fats such as olive oil.
Protein and Fats Before and After Exercise
Consuming protein and fat before and after exercise can maximize recovery and performance. Before exercise, a small amount of protein along with carbohydrates can help maintain energy and prevent muscle breakdown. Fats, although they should not be consumed in excess before exercise due to their slow digestion, can be included in small amounts. After exercise, a combination of protein and carbohydrates is crucial for muscle repair and glycogen replenishment, while fats can aid nutrient absorption.
Timing and Quantity
Pre-exercise: Consuming a snack with approximately 10-20 grams of protein, 30-50 grams of carbohydrates and a small amount of healthy fats, such as a tablespoon of almond butter, 30-60 minutes before exercise can be beneficial.
Post-exercise: Consuming a meal or snack with 20-30 grams of protein, 50-100 grams of carbohydrate and a moderate serving of healthy fats within 30-60 minutes post-exercise is ideal to maximize recovery.
Effects of Inadequate Protein and Fat Intake
Protein Deficiency
Not consuming enough protein can have several negative effects on long distance athletes:
Loss of Muscle Mass: Without enough protein, the body can break down muscle to obtain needed amino acids.
Fatigue and Reduced Performance: Lack of protein can lead to insufficient recovery, increasing fatigue and decreasing performance.
Weakened Immune System: Protein deficiency can compromise immune function, increasing the risk of disease.
Risk of Injury: Protein insufficiency can affect tissue repair and endurance, increasing the risk of injury.
Fat Deficiency.
Inadequate fat intake can also have negative consequences:
Decreased Energy: Fats are a key source of energy during prolonged exercise. Insufficient intake can lead to a sustained lack of energy.
Vitamin Absorption Problems: Lack of fat in the diet can affect the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Hormonal Imbalances: Fats are essential for hormone production. Insufficient intake can negatively affect hormone balance and reproductive function.
Examples of Nutritional Deficiencies
A study in marathon runners showed that those with insufficient protein intake had a higher incidence of muscle injury and slower recovery compared to those on a high-protein diet. Similarly, another study found that cyclists with inadequate fat intake experienced lower energy levels and greater fatigue during long-distance races.
Conclusion
Animal protein and fats play crucial roles in the diet of long-distance athletes, providing essential nutrients for muscle repair, energy production, immune function, and vitamin absorption. Consuming an adequate and balanced amount of protein and fat can significantly improve performance and recovery in endurance sports. By focusing on high quality sources and spreading intake throughout the day, athletes can maximize the benefits of these nutrients and maintain a high level of performance.