Fuelling the female athlete: Carbohydrate and protein recommendations.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review synthesizing literature without systematic search methodology or meta-analysis
PubMed 34015236 · doi:10.1080/17461391.2021.1922508
What was done
Narrative review synthesizing literature on carbohydrate and protein requirements in female athletes across menstrual cycle phases compared to established male-derived sports nutrition guidelines.
What was found
The abstract reports no quantitative data or numerical findings. The authors concluded that current evidence does not support distinct sex-specific carbohydrate or protein guidelines for female athletes if total energy needs are satisfied, advising instead an individualized approach tailored to training goals and menstrual cycle symptoms.
Why it matters
Clarifies that existing sport nutrition guidelines remain the baseline for female athletes while emphasizing the need to consider individual cycle-related symptoms rather than assuming broad physiological divergence.
Limits
Narrative review design without systematic search criteria, meta-analysis, or specified study count. The underlying literature is constrained by poor control over menstrual cycle phases, contraceptive use, background dietary intake, and prior exercise.
Cited by
- supports There is no scientific data supporting the practice of adjusting caloric, protein, or carbohydrate intake based on the phases of the menstrual cycle.