Ketosis and Protein Loading: The Implications of the Dukan Diet on Endurance in Competitive Sports

This research explores the implications of ketosis and protein loading, as induced by the Dukan Diet, on endurance in competitive sports. The Dukan Diet, known for its high-protein, low-carbohydrate approach, promotes a metabolic state where the body uses fat as its primary energy source. This shift to fat oxidation has potential benefits for endurance athletes, particularly those involved in ultra-endurance sports. The study examines how ketosis conserves glycogen stores and enhances fat metabolism, offering sustained energy for long-duration activities. However, the research also highlights the challenges athletes face with carbohydrate restriction, especially during high-intensity efforts that depend on glycogen. The role of protein loading in muscle preservation and recovery is discussed, along with the diet's long-term sustainability and psychological impacts on athletes. The findings suggest that while the Dukan Diet may benefit endurance performance, its restrictive nature and the potential trade-offs between fat and glycogen metabolism raise important considerations for athletes seeking to optimize both endurance and high-intensity performance.