I just happened to just read an article on the protein requirements of cyclists in last month's Bicycle Paper (the article was by dietician Cindy Farricker) and I was astounded by the protein requirements. She said that endurance cyclists could need up to 0.9 grams of protein per day, and that less well-trained cyclists actually need significantly more than well-trained cyclists. For me, this would translate into 115 grams of protein per day, which is WAY, WAY more than I typically eat!

I have been sick with a mysterious ailment on and off for the past 2 years that seems to get triggered by hard bicycling. Now I'm wondering if a large protein deficit could be contributing to my problem! For me, at least, it is hard to eat anywhere near this much protein, as I can't stand to eat much beef or pork due to the fat content. For the past couple of days I've really been gorging on fish and chinese food, and I've got my protein intake up above 100 grams per day. I definitely feel better, but only time will tell how much this might be contributing to my ailment.

Even though I've been bicycling regularly for 23 years, I had no idea that the daily protein requirements could be so high!

Don't forget the protein in your diets!