Do Weight Lifters Need Large Amounts of Protein in Their Diets?
Many of the companies that manufacture nutritional supplements claim that weight lifters require large amounts of protein in their diets to ensure maximal strength gains during training. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. Although a well-balanced diet is essential for anyone engaging in regular weight lifting, research shows that the recommended daily allowance of protein (about one-third gram of protein per pound of body weight per day) is adequate to ensure maximal strength gains. Thus, for people eating balanced diets, a protein supplement during weight training is not recommended. Chapter 6 When Muscles Cramp Muscle cramps are one of the most common problems encountered in sports and exercise. For many years the primary causes of muscle cramps were thought to be dehydration and/or an electrolyte imbalances. Accordingly, drinking enough fluids and ensuring that the diet contains sufficient amounts of sodium (from table salt, for example) and potassium (from bananas
