Athletes and High Protein Diets
When researching different methods of obtaining proper nutrition, you may also learn about different diets and nutrition regimens.
And while many of these fad diets come and go, it is worthwhile to understand how some of the more popular diets may affect your health and physical performance.
It is often high protein diets that attract the attention of attention of athletes and exercise enthusiasts.
Diets like that Atkins diet or the South Beach diet are most likely the most popular of these high protein diet programs.
The truth about these diets is that many athletes do lose weight while following the diet's guidelines.
But it is important for active people to realize that much of the weight lost while following these diets is due to water loss and the loss of carbohydrate energy, which is stored in the body as glycogen.
Anyone who participates in high energy or endurance activities should be aware that the loss of glycogen can mean that you may not have the energy you need to perform the tasks that you wish to accomplish.
So in reality, these high protein diets may not be all they are cracked up to be-especially when it comes to athletic performance.
In fact, some studies have shown that a high protein diet can even hurt or hinder athletic performance.
If you are not getting enough carbohydrates in your body because of a high protein die it can lead to reduced energy stores in the muscles and liver.
It can also limit your endurance and make it so you have to work harder to get the results you are looking for.
Too few carbohydrates can also decrease your glucose levels and can even lead to hypoglycemia.
A diet that is too high in protein and fat can also increase your risk for certain kinds of cancer, increase your risk for osteoporosis, and reduce your body's ability to intake vitamins and minerals.
To avoid the potential downfalls of a high protein diet, it is be to eat protein in moderation and to consume enough carbohydrates.
This will ensure that your body will function properly.