Protein Intake and Athletic Performance in Master Athletes: A Review
Protein Intake and Athletic Performance in Master Athletes: A Review
This post analyzes the paper '[Protein Intake, Physical Performance and Body Composition in Master Athletes-A Short Scoping Review.]' published in Nutrients in 2025.
Study Overview
This scoping review examines the relationship between protein intake, physical performance, and body composition in master athletes. The researchers aimed to summarize existing studies, identify common outcomes, and suggest directions for future research. They focused on observational and interventional studies linking protein intake to body composition or performance measures.
Evidence Synthesis
The review included 12 studies involving master athletes of various ages, sports, and outcome parameters. Importantly, the studies' participants spanned a wide range of sports, including endurance sports (7 studies), multi-sport athletes (4 studies), and strength training (1 study). This diversity in athletic backgrounds is crucial for understanding the broader implications of protein intake.
Statistical Findings
The average protein intake across the included studies ranged from 1.0 to 1.9 grams per kilogram of body weight per day (g/kg/d). This range highlights the variability in dietary practices among the athletes studied. The limited number of studies and the heterogeneity in study design and methods, however, constrained the researchers' ability to draw definitive conclusions about the optimal protein intake for master athletes.
Key Outcomes
The review found a tendency toward benefits of higher protein intakes for muscle mass and function in the available studies. This suggests a possible positive correlation, but further investigation is needed to confirm this trend.
Quality Assessment
The review highlights the heterogeneity in study design and methods across the included studies. This variability in methodologies makes it difficult to compare results directly and draw strong conclusions about the effectiveness of different protein intake strategies.
Clinical Significance
The review underscores the lack of clear dietary recommendations for master athletes regarding protein intake. This lack of evidence-based guidelines is a significant concern, especially for athletes in this age group. The need for specific recommendations tailored to the unique physiological needs of master athletes is apparent.
Practice Recommendations
💡 Tip: Given the limited evidence, the current recommendation for master athletes is to maintain a protein intake within the range of 1.0 to 1.9 g/kg/d. Further research is needed to establish precise guidelines.
📌 Note: Athletes should consult with registered dietitians or sports nutritionists to determine the most appropriate protein intake based on individual needs and training regimens. Monitoring progress and adjusting the plan based on performance feedback is essential.
Research Gaps
The review emphasizes the critical need for more research to establish a robust evidence base for protein intake recommendations for master athletes. Future studies should address the following:
- Standardized study designs: Employing more consistent methodologies across studies to facilitate direct comparisons.
- Larger sample sizes: Including a larger number of participants to increase the statistical power of the findings.
- Specific athlete populations: Focusing on particular athletic disciplines to explore the specific needs of different types of master athletes.
- Longitudinal studies: Following athletes over extended periods to assess the long-term effects of different protein intake strategies.
- Mechanism studies: Investigating the underlying physiological mechanisms linking protein intake to muscle mass and function in master athletes.
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