Alzheimer's: Is protein harmful? - Is protein after cycling training a trigger for Alzheimer's?

Question from Rudolf B.: I regularly consume high-quality protein after my road bike training. I am over 60 years old. Is there a connection to protein deposits in the brain, such as those found in Alzheimer's patients?

Answer from Uwe Schröder: Consuming protein after cycling training is particularly useful after intensive or interval-type activities and after very long training sessions. It supports regeneration and can help the body to adapt more quickly and effectively to the training stimulus. Immediately after exercise, high-quality protein sources with a high proportion of branched-chain amino acids are preferable.

However, according to current knowledge, a connection between a targeted - and usually additional - protein intake and the development of Alzheimer's-specific plaques (deposits) cannot be established and is also unlikely. However, anyone who consumes protein should not exceed the portion sizes recommended by the manufacturer. In order to effectively support regeneration, the following amounts of protein are currently considered sensible: 20 to 35 grams per portion, or a maximum of 0.4 grams of protein per kilogramme of body weight as a single portion after very endurance-oriented units. It is also important to quickly replace the water lost through perspiration and to consciously increase the amount of protein consumed, as protein breakdown products are excreted via the kidneys. Mineral-rich mineral waters are particularly recommended, ideally with a calcium-magnesium ratio of 2:1.