What is the recommended daily intake of protein for athletes?

The recommended daily intake of protein for athletes is set between 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kilogram of body weight. This range is based on the increased physical demands placed on athletes, which require higher protein intake to support muscle repair, recovery, and the maintenance of lean body mass.

Athletes engage in activities that can lead to muscle breakdown, and sufficient protein intake helps to facilitate muscle protein synthesis, recover from training sessions, and overall adapt to the physical demands of their sport. Factors such as the type and intensity of the exercise, training volume, and specific goals (e.g., muscle gain, endurance training) can influence the precise protein needs within this range.

The other values provided do not accurately reflect the needs of athletes. A value such as 0.8 g/kg body weight is the general recommendation for sedentary adults and would not meet the elevated demands of athletes. Similarly, while 1.5 g/kg body weight is within the potential range for some athletes, it does not encompass the upper limit necessary for those engaging in intense training or requiring muscle recovery. The value of 2.5 g/kg body weight is excessive and unsupported by research for practical dietary guidelines, as such high intake does not yield additional benefits