biostudies-literatureUnknown23(1)Zhao S<h4>Background</h4>Protein supplements are a popular category of dietary supplements among fitness enthusiasts and athletes. However, research providing definitive conclusions on the effects of protein on athletic performance and post-exercise recovery remains limited. Key factors, such as protein source, timing, and optimal dosage, require further investigation to clarify their impact.<h4>Method</h4>A systematic search across seven databases identified 6,129 studies, which were screened using the Covidence online tool. After independent selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment by two reviewers, 75 studies involving 1,206 athletes were included in the meta-analysis. A multilevel meta-analysis synthesized data from the included studies using a Bayesian hierarchical model withJournal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition2605338https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC12777903biostudies-literatureThe effectiveness of protein supplements on athletic performance and post-exercise recovery - a Bayesian multilevel meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.PMC12777903Liang TLiu YZhao SZhang XNg SNing ZfalseThe effectiveness of protein supplements on athletic performance and post-exercise recovery - a Bayesian multilevel meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.<h4>Background</h4>Protein supplements are a popular category of dietary supplements among fitness enthusiasts and athletes. However, research providing definitive conclusions on the effects of protein on athletic performance and post-exercise recovery remains limited. Key factors, such as protein source, timing, and optimal dosage, require further investigation to clarify their impact.<h4>Method</h4>A systematic search across seven databases identified 6,129 studies, which were screened using the Covidence online tool. After independent selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment by two reviewers, 75 studies involving 1,206 athletes were included in the meta-analysis. A multilevel meta-analysis synthesized data from the included studies using a Bayesian hierarchical model with2026-01-01T00:00:00Z2026 Dec2026-06-06T11:37:45.558Z2026-05-30T03:07:38.613ZS-EPMC127779034143303910.1080/15502783.2025.2605338