What is a dietary consideration for athletes undergoing significant weight loss?

Adequate protein intake is crucial for athletes undergoing significant weight loss because it helps preserve lean muscle mass during a calorie deficit. When an athlete reduces calorie intake for weight loss, there is a risk of losing muscle along with fat. Protein plays a key role in muscle repair and growth, so ensuring sufficient consumption can help mitigate muscle loss, support recovery, and maintain overall strength and performance.

In addition, a higher protein intake might help maintain satiety, which can be beneficial when reducing overall calorie consumption. This strategy is particularly important in sports nutrition, where muscle mass is vital for optimal performance. Keeping protein levels adequate while losing weight supports the athlete's body composition goals without sacrificing their lean tissue.