A Canadian researcher has found that both high-level and amateur athletes are unsure of the proper ways to use protein supplements.

The study consisted of 42 athletes from different sports including biathlon, cycling, long-distance running, swimming, judo, skating and volleyball. Participants kept a food journal for three days and were asked about their use of supplements.

Nine out of 10 reported that they regularly take supplements including energy drinks, multi-vitamins, minerals and powdered protein supplements. However, researcher Martin Frechette said their knowledge of supplements was weak, especially when it came to protein.

"Only one out of four consumers could associate a valid reason, backed by scientific literature, for taking the product," he said.

Despite the widespread use of protein supplements, 70 percent of athletes in the study didn’t feel their performance would suffer if they stopped such consumption.

"No less than 81 percent of athletes taking supplements already had sufficient protein from their diet," Frechette added.

Experts say that athletes’ nutrition plans should be individualized to meet the needs of training and competition. And while protein is important for muscle function, carbohydrates remain the primary fuel for intense muscular efforts.