It’s no secret that protein is an important macronutrient for endurance athletes. However, you may be uncertain as to how much protein you need or if you should be supplementing your diet with more protein. If you’re wondering whether you should add protein powder to your diet, here are 5 reasons why it’s a good idea!

1. You're not getting enough protein 

Protein is often associated with bodybuilders and is usually not given the same consideration by endurance athletes like runners, cyclists, and triathletes. However, endurance athletes have higher dietary protein requirements too! Endurance athletes should aim for 1.3-1.7 grams of protein/kg body weight a day. This means that if you weigh 70 kg, you should consume anywhere between 91-119 grams of protein each day. It may be hard to consume this amount of protein from food alone, which is whyprotein powder is a great supplement. 

2.Protein helps you recover from your workouts 

Consuming a combination of carbohydrates andprotein early on after your workout enhances muscular glycogen levels. The branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) found in protein are critical in repairing muscle damage that occurs during exercise. Ideally, your post-exercise meal should have a 4:1 ratio of carbs: protein. So, after a long run, down a protein shake with a plate of pasta.  

3. Protein powder is convenient 

When you’re out on a long run, it’s hard to carry around solid food. On the other hand, protein powder is easy to carry around, and is made ready-to-drink by just adding water!

4. Protein powder minimizes muscle breakdown 

After around 90 minutes of exercise, you need to consume some amount ofprotein or your body will start to rob amino acids from muscle tissues for fuel, which contributes to muscle soreness. Adding a protein shake to your fueling plan provides amino acids and thus reduces muscle protein breakdown. Additionally, BCAAs found in protein powder help synthesize muscle production for building lean muscle. 

5. Protein powder add another protein option to your diet

If you’re bored of your usual protein sources and need some variety, protein powder can be a great alternative. You can add them to your pancakes, oatmeal, orsmoothie bowlto switch up your daily routine. 

If you’re looking for a clean, easy to digest, and delicious protein powder, try out ourNäak vanilla protein powder or Näak chocolate protein powder. Outside of your own health, another benefit of Näak protein powders is the positive effect it has on the health of the planet. Plant-based protein powder requires less land, water, and energy than for whey protein powder.