You understand the importance of protein for muscle repair and recovery, and you probably use protein powders to get an immediate post-workout fix to kickstart that process. But knowing what kind of protein to take, how much, and when, can greatly improve how effectively you bounce back from hard training sessions. Protein forms part of the structure of all cells and tissues.
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It is essential to the formation, repair and growth of muscle tissue. Proteins are made up of smaller molecules called amino acids. They link together to form complex structures – nine of which are essential and must be obtained from the diet.
An award-winning, registered nutritionist and sports nutritionist with over 15 years’ experience, Rob Hobson runs his London-based consultancy, RHNutrition, seeing private clients and working with leading brands within the wellness industry. See what he has to offer at robhobson.co.uk
Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs) are important here – especially leucine. Leucine triggers muscle protein synthesis (MPS), the natural process of producing protein to repair muscle damage caused by intensive exercise. Without leucine, muscle protein synthesis can’t take place.