Comparing the Recommended Protein Intake to the Actual Protein Intake Among Collegiate Athletes, a Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: To review current literature concerning actual protein intake and familiarity with recommended protein intake targets among collegiate athletes in order to maintain and optimize muscle mass. Methods: Literature was gathered through PubMed and Google Scholar and assessed for the recommended protein intake for collegiate athletes. Results: A majority of the literature stated that the recommended protein intake for a collegiate athlete is 1.4 to 2.0 g/kg/d. Overall, the average intake and awareness of the recommended amount of protein consumption were less than the recommended protein intake. Conclusions: The target protein intake of no more than 2.0 g/kg/d has shown promising results for collegiate athletes and their optimization of muscle mass. The conclusions of this review can be used to help college sports nutritionists to create awareness of the importance of adequate protein consumption in athletes.