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Amino Acids and Athletics

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Amino Acids and Athletics
Ana-Merrie Selves
SCI 241 Science of Nutrition
December 10, 2010
Glenn Johnson

Many athletes mistakenly believe that consuming protein will augment performance, and some even believe consuming additional of particular amino acids will further the effect of building muscle as well as amplify performance. However, research cannot support these beliefs, and specifically the intake of certain amino acid supplements has no connection to fitness. In fact, a paper by the American Dietetic Association stated an inordinate amount has not shown to improve performance (Stockton, 1988).
The amount of protein optimal is arguable when talking to nutritionists and athletic doctors. The amount of protein recommended for adults is approximately two ounces a day for a 180-pound male, although research suggests young athletes may break down muscle protein for energy. A 1987 paper by the dietary association admitted the recommended daily amount could be low for exceedingly active adults, increasing the proposed daily amount be increased by nearly 25% (Stockton, 1988).
North Americans are noted to eat double the protein necessary, whether active in sports or not, and essentially people are unlikely to consume too little protein. Consuming more protein previously was thought to achieve nothing, but also not harmful; simply expelling the excess (Stockton, 1988).
Evidence now indicates that excessive protein or amino acid supplements may be damaging; kidney and digestion complications may be lasting effects. Kidneys may be the biggest concern because of reduced function, as they manage the “nitrogen-containing waste products” generated when amino acids are metabolized (Stockton, 1988, para. 14). Human kidneys begin with a vast store of cells for management of excess protein, and as time passes, cells fail, although stored cells can replace them. Excess

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