Professional sports also requires professional nourishment. Think of your body as a sports car. If you put the right fuel in it the car will be able to race up and down the lane at incredible speed. But when the fuel is consumed the only thing left is a shell.
Athletes function the same. If you want to utilize the body at the peak of its performance you have to consume the necessary nourishments. Using the right ones and using them correctly will help your abilities peak. Using the wrong ones will not allow you to perform at your best and sometimes damage your health.
Here are essential and healthy food items that athletes should use.
Berries
Don’t underestimate berries. They are essential for recovery after a hard workout. Berries are rich in antioxidants that help you recover after a hard physical workout. Therefore consider consuming blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries after a good workout session.
Dark berries are especially good as they contain phytochemicals and certain other protective elements which are good in preventing oxidative stress. This can occur within your body after a strenuous workout or activity. Also, they are good for your long-term wellness as they can preserve muscles for longer periods of time.
Salmon
Fish is generally healthy good that is good for all people. However, salmon is best for athletes. It is a fatty fish that contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids and is filled with lean, muscle-building proteins. The omega-3 acids are very helpful in reducing inflammation of muscles that most athletes are going to suffer from.
Additionally, salmon is a natural artery cleanser and consuming it reduces the risk of getting a heart attack.
Bananas
You’ve probably seen professional tennis players eating a banana during a break or after a match. That is because they exert themselves a lot and they need to replenish electrolytes. Bananas are a natural source of electrolytes and are high in potassium, which makes them a great after-workout snack.
Eating just a single banana will help in regulating your fluid intake that you are consuming before, during and after workout. More so, it helps in preventing muscle spasms or cramps that may occur if you don’t stretch well.
Nuts
Nuts can be essential for an athlete’s diet. They are high in protein and healthy fats. If you consume them with carbs it can help in leveling your blood sugar and they can also sustain the carbs in your body for longer periods and not cause you to burn them out really fast.
Nuts are essentially a good plant-based protein that are rich in fibers and antioxidants. They have a lot of vitamin E and the anti-inflammatory nutrients within them are great for bone health. Furthermore, they are actually easy to digest and can be good for your stomach health.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is really good for athletes as it helps them stay fuller for longer periods of time. They are a great source of energy carbs and are also high in fiber. It is a whole grain type of food and helps lowering the risk of heart disease. Also, it helps athletes gain weight and is a healthy source of doing so. But always get steel-cut oats instead of instant oats as the latter has a higher glycerin index that can increase insulin levels.
