Athletes: The Impact of High-Protein Diets on Overall Health, Body Composition, and Metabolic Function: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.76.75806Keywords
sports nutrition, systematic recovery, muscle protein synthesis, body compositionAbstract
Background. While high-protein diets are traditionally viewed through the lens of muscle hypertrophy, their systemic impact on broad health parameters, weight management, and metabolic stability across active populations demands reevaluation. Misconceptions regarding potential renal and skeletal risks frequently obscure the evidence-based benefits of elevated protein intake.
Aim. This review aimed to synthesize literature concerning the systemic impact of high-protein dietary protocols on body composition, metabolic thermogenesis, satiety regulation, and physiological safety markers in healthy adults.
Material and methods: Core clinical nutrition and sports science databases were reviewed for trials and meta-analyses investigating dietary protein intakes ranging from RDA baseline (0.8 g/kg/d) up to high-dose protocols (1.2 to >4.4 g/kg/d) and their chronic markers of metabolic, renal, skeletal, and cardiovascular health.
Results: Elevated protein protocols significantly augment muscle protein synthesis, preserve lean mass during energy deficit, and prevent non-functional fat accumulation under hypercaloric conditions. High protein intake enhances postprandial thermogenesis and modulates appetite-regulating satiety pathways. Meta-analytic data confirm chronic high-protein consumption does not compromise renal filtration, bone mineral density, or lipid profiles in healthy individuals.
Conclusions. High-protein dietary regimens represent a safe, multi-systemic strategy for active individuals. Elevated protein intake functions as a primary metabolic modulator that optimizes body composition, supports cellular recovery, and maintains long-term systemic stability without inducing renal or skeletal toxicity.
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