What role does protein play in an athlete's diet?

Protein plays a critical role in an athlete's diet primarily because it helps build and repair muscles. During exercise, especially resistance training or high-intensity workouts, muscle fibers experience stress and small tears occur. Protein is essential for the recovery and growth of these muscle fibers, as it supplies the amino acids required to repair tissues and stimulate muscle protein synthesis.

In addition to its role in muscle repair, adequate protein intake supports the overall performance of athletes by contributing to muscle mass, strength, and recovery time between workouts. This is particularly important for athletes engaged in repetitive training sessions or competitions, where optimal recovery is necessary for continued performance enhancement.

While hydration is crucial for overall performance, it is not the function that protein serves. Similarly, while carbohydrates are typically the primary source for quick energy during exercise, protein’s role is not to provide rapid energy. Flexibility is more associated with stretching and the body's range of motion rather than the direct effects of protein. Thus, the emphasis on muscle building and repair accurately reflects the distinct function of protein within an athlete's dietary needs.