Youth athletes are constantly told that protein consumption is a vital component of their day-to-day diet.
That being said, what is protein, why is it so important for youth footballers, and is protein supplementation for youth footballers safe and beneficial?
We go over all this in the article below. Enjoy!
What Is Protein?
Protein is one of the three macronutrients (carbohydrates, fats, PROTEIN) that the body needs to function properly, and plays a crucial role in building, repairing, and maintaining tissues in the body.
Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the ‘building blocks’ of protein essential for muscle building, retention, and repair, as well as play important roles in various bodily functions, such as hormone regulation and immune support.
Proteins can be found in many different types of food, including meat, fish, eggs, beans & legumes, and dairy products, as well as in supplements such as powders and bars.
Animal sources of protein tend to be complete proteins, meaning they contain all the essential amino acids that the body needs. Plant sources of protein may be incomplete, but combining different plant-based proteins can provide all the essential amino acids.
Consuming adequate amounts of protein as part of a balanced diet is important for overall health and well-being.
Why protein is important for youth footballers.
Protein is important for young soccer players as it helps with building, repairing, and maintaining muscles.
Soccer is a very physically demanding sport that requires a lot of running, jumping, and ball striking.
Consuming enough protein as part of a balanced diet can help young soccer players improve muscle strength, endurance, and overall performance.
Furthermore, protein can aid in injury prevention and recovery.
Soccer players are prone to injuries such as strains, sprains, and fractures due to the nature of the sport, and adequate protein intake may help repair damaged tissues and prevent further injury.
Finally, protein also helps boost our immune systems, which can help prevent illnesses and keep young soccer players healthy and in good physical condition.
Overall, protein is an essential nutrient for young soccer players to perform at their best and maintain good health.
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What is ‘Whey Protein?’
Whey protein is a ‘high-quality protein’ derived from cow’s milk that contains a concentrated amount of essential amino acids and BCAA’s (Branched Chain Amino Acids – three essential Amino Acids especially important for athletic recovery) which are required for muscle growth, retention and repair.
Whey protein is easily digested and absorbed by the body and plays a role in boosting immune function and reducing the risk of illness in youth soccer players.
Whey protein is also rich in other nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12, making it a beneficial addition to a balanced diet.
That being said, whey protein is found in our food in relatively low amounts, and this is why whey supplementation can be vastly important for footballers.
Whey Protein Supplementation for footballers
Before we discuss whey protein, we must remember that ALL protein supplements are sources intended to aid and add to an already well-balanced, whole-food diet.
Even before considering supplementation, first, evaluate your nutritional choices and establish a well-balanced, day-to-day diet that benefits your health, well-being, and performance.
Now, whey protein (and whey supplementation) is VERY beneficial (and safe) for youth soccer players in my opinion.
With the increase in training activity and intensity, players become even more susceptible to injuries and illnesses due to the constant breakdown of cells within their bodies.
Adding whey supplementation to a well-balanced diet will help youth footballers improve:
Quality on-the-ball
Strength, power, agility and speed
Energy and concentration levels
Muscle and tissue building, maintenance, and repair
Immunity
Endurance and durability
Conclusion
The quality and quantity of protein, especially whey protein, consumed by athletes will have a direct impact on performance and recovery.
Integrating a safe and reliable whey protein supplement in particular can have a vast influence on a young athlete’s performance, health, and overall well-being, thus integrating it into their day-to-day diet is crucial.
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