Potential role for protein in assisting post-exercise rehydration

Abstract

Summary The latest International Olympic Committee Consensus Statement on Sports Nutrition 2010 concluded that when athletes must compete in several events in a short time-period, strategies to enhance recovery of fluid and fuel are important. In fact, all athletes and recreational exercisers might benefit from effective rehydration strategies, as rapid rehydration is not limited only to optimal subsequent performance. Rehydration also regulates cell function in favour of the adaptive processes and improvements in body composition, which take place during recovery. The composition of a fluid consumed soon after exercise has an important impact on body water restoration and should be considered if rapid rehydration is a goal. Typically, guidelines recommend using sports drinks or foods and fluids that contain carbohydrate for replacement of glycogen stores and electrolyte sodium, which promotes greater fluid absorption and retention. However, more effective restoration of body water and plasma volume have been observed in some studies when more nutrients and food compounds are consumed. It suggests a role for other nutrients, such as protein, in the strategy to enhance rehydration. Emerging research looking into milk proteins, whey and casein, points to a role for protein in assisting post-exercise fluid retention. The most obvious mechanisms are enhanced sodium and water absorption from the gut, and increased plasma protein synthesis resulting in higher osmotic pressure exerted by plasma proteins. This article reviews current strategies to enhance post-exercise recovery of fluid balance, with a focus on protein.